Antioxidant-rich nanofibrous scaffolds from renewable lignin and nanocellulose for next generation wound dressings

Chronic wounds remain a major clinical challenge creating demands for multifunctional wound dressings with antioxidant and biocompatible properties to accelerate healing. This study developed nanofibrous scaffolds by electrospinning polycaprolactone (PCL) blended with functionalized lignin-aminated polyethylene glycol (lignin-PEH-NH 2 ) and nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) derived from oil palm fruit bunches. The optimized lignin-PEG-NH2 (50:50) exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (83.70 % ± 4.81 free radical inhibition), while NCC showed a rod-like structure with an average diameter of 1.96 ± 0.46 μm and maximum distribution of 1.20 ± 0.32 μm. The resulting nanofibers were smooth, continuous, and bead-free, with suitable mechanical properties for wound applications. In vitro assays using normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and enhanced cell proliferation over 72 h. Collectively, these results highlight the potential of PCL/lignin-PEH-NH 2 /NCC nanofibers as promising multifunctional wound dressings with antioxidant and regenerative properties. This work also introduces a sustainable, bioactive platform for next generation wound management strategies. • Lignin reinforced nanofibers with enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. • These nanofibers offer excellent structure and strength for wound dressings. • Nanocrystalline cellulose from oil palm waste aligns with Sustainable Development Goals. • Incorporating nanocrystalline cellulose enhances the in vitro biocompatibility of the fiber.