Olive oil/norfloxacin-loaded Konjac gum films for antibacterial wound dressing

Natural polymer-based materials incorporating bioactive agents are widely explored for biomedical applications due to their biocompatibility and sustainability. In this study, a konjac gum-based film loaded with olive oil and norfloxacin (KG@OO + NOR) was developed as an antibacterial wound dressing. The film was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and mechanical analysis, confirming good structural integrity, thermal stability, and acceptable mechanical properties. It exhibited a high swelling ratio (294 ± 17%) and a suitable water vapor transmission rate (242 ± 22 g m−2 d−1), indicating its ability to maintain a moist wound environment. Morphological analysis showed uniform dispersion of olive oil droplets, while FTIR results suggested strong intermolecular interactions. The film demonstrated effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In vitro cytocompatibility studies using human skin fibroblast cells showed sustained viability over 72 h, and scratch assay results indicated complete wound closure. These findings suggest that the KG@OO + NOR film is a promising candidate for antibacterial wound dressing applications.