Transparent and Mechanically\nRobust Janus Nanofiber\nMembranes for Open Wound Healing and Monitoring

The electrospun nanofiber membrane has demonstrated great\npotential\nfor wound management due to its porous structure, large surface area,\nmechanical strength, and barrier properties. However, there is a need\nto develop transparent bioactive nanofibers with strong mechanical\nproperties to facilitate the monitoring of the healing process. In\nthis study, we present an electrospinning-based method for creating\ntransparent (∼80–90%), strong (∼11–13\nMPa), and Janus nanofiber membranes. The innovative square pattern\narchitecture of the membrane includes a thin hydrophobic polycaprolactone\nlayer on top of a layer of hydrophilic ethylene-vinyl alcohol nanofiber,\nwhich enables the absorption of excess biofluid from the wound and\nexhibits Janus wettability for water. Furthermore, incorporating 5%\nchitosan into the composition of the nanofibers accelerates the healing\nprocess through its antioxidant properties and antimicrobial activity\nagainst various bacteria, including drug-resistant strains. The developed\nmembrane also demonstrates skin-repairing function, quick blood clotting\n(around 145 ± 12 s), and biocompatibility with keratinocyte (≥90%),\nas well as <i>in vitro</i> quick cell migration (∼24\nh). With a tensile strength of 11–13 MPa, the membrane effectively\nadheres to the knee joint even after running 4 km. These optimal properties\nof the electrospun nanofiber membrane make it suitable for effective\nwound management and inspection of the healing process, without the\nneed for frequent dressing changes.