AgNP-chitosan hydrogel as a novel antibacterial and wound healing material against methicillin-resistant <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>

Methicillin-resistant <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> (MRSA), which is resistant to many of the antibiotics used in clinical settings, has emerged as a significant concern in healthcare and the treatment options for MRSA infections are becoming increasingly limited. There is an urgent need for novel systems to combating MRSA. Nanotechnology inspired interventions might possibly overcome the defense mechanisms used by MRSA, resulting in more successful treatment techniques. A unique strategy involved the fabrication of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) derived from <i>Urginea indica</i> and combined with chitosan. The resulting Ag-chitosan hydrogel was assessed using UV and FTIR spectroscopy, as well as zeta potential measurement. The hydrogel's efficacy against targeted bacteria and biofilms was investigated, revealing its method of action. Furthermore, the biological compatibility of the material with cell lines was analyzed for potential uses. These studies were supplemented by <i>in vitro</i> infection trials and <i>in vivo</i> assessments utilizing a Balb/c mouse model. Overall, the comprehensive analysis confirmed the Ag-chitosan hydrogel's ability to promote wound healing. Notably, adding U. indica-derived Ag NPs and chitosan significantly increased the hydrogel's therapeutic potential.