High efficiency of <i>Curcuma longa</i> and <i>Aloe vera</i> extracts in electrospun polyvinyl alcohol-based microfibers for <i>in vitro</i> wound healing

Abstract The efficacy of Curcuma longa and Aloe vera extracts in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based microfibers for in vitro wound healing was investigated. Microfibers were produced using a PVA:PVP:CMC ratio of 8.0:12.0:1.0 (%w/w) incorporating Curcuma longa extract concentrations from 0 to 5.0 %, with Aloe vera extract fixed at 5 %. Surface morphology of the microfibers was analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Extracts incorporation into the polymer matrix was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. High-performance liquid chromatography was employed to analyze the active compounds in the extracts. As the extract concentrations increased, the average fiber diameter grew from 0.84 ± 0.10 to 6.74 ± 0.28 µm. Propylene glycol facilitated higher extract concentrations due to increased hydrophilicity. Cytotoxicity assessments, using the sulforhodamine B assay, revealed that a concentration of 1 mg/mL of the polymer solution containing the extracts was non-cytotoxic. In a scratch wound assay, fibroblasts treated with the polymer solution containing the extracts demonstrated enhanced migration compared to those treated with ascorbic acid. These findings suggest the potential of these extracts to expedite cell migration, aid in tissue repair, and contribute to wound healing. The study offers valuable insights into the morphological aspects and biomedical applications of the examined microfibers.