Antibacterial electrospun PVA/Collagen/PEG nanofiber scaffold loaded with Aloe vera for skin tissue engineering

Abstract

Skin tissue damage, especially due to burn injuries, remains a serious challenge requiring effective and sophisticated therapeutic strategies. In this study, we examined the characteristics of an antibacterial nanofiber scaffold based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), collagen, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and Aloe vera for skin tissue engineering applications. The scaffold was characterized based on its chemical structure, morphology, mechanical properties, wettability, biodegradability, and antibacterial activity. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful integration and interaction of all components. The resulting nanofibers had a uniform, bead-free morphology with a diameter of 223–287 nm and a porosity of 60–70%. Mechanical tests showed a tensile strength increased from 7.30 to 12.43 MPa, while Young’s modulus increased from 30.38 to 84.77 MPa with increasing Aloe vera concentration. The incorporation of Aloe vera increased fiber diameter and modified scaffold morphology, which was associated with changes in the mechanical properties of the scaffold. Increasing Aloe vera concentration resulted in larger fiber diameters, enhanced hydrophilicity, faster biodegradation, and increased antibacterial activity, while also affecting the elongation and porosity of the scaffolds. Overall, the developed scaffold exhibits multifunctional properties, indicating its potential as a candidate material for skin tissue engineering.