Green silver nanoparticle-embedded chitosan-alginate hydrogel: A novel antibacterial approach for potential wound healing

Wound dressings used in medical applications serve as a protective barrier for wounds, creating an environment that promotes wound healing. The typical traditional wound dressings often present challenges, including weak barrier function and tendency to adhere to wounds. Therefore, there is a critical need to develop advanced wound dressing with strong antibacterial properties that can prevent the spread of infection and accelerate the healing process. To develop hydrogels with antibacterial properties, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from 1 mM AgNO₃ using a green catalyst matcha green tea extract (camellia sinensis) were incorporated into chitosan and alginate This was accomplished by mixing silver nitrate and green tea extract to produce the nanoparticles, which were then added to the hydrogel using crosslinkers. The synthesized nanomaterials and hydrogels were characterized using UV-VIS spectroscopy, TEM, EDX, FTIR, and SEM techniques. Their antimicrobial efficiency has been evaluated through inhibition zone assays, antibiofilm evaluation against P.aeruginosa, E. coli, S. aureus, C.albicans, and A.niger, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). It was found that, novel hydrogel, infused with AgNPs, exhibited superior water absorption and retention, ensuring a moist wound environment while effectively absorbing a substantial wound exudate. Additionally, the antimicrobial hydrogel demonstrated robust mechanical properties and potent antimicrobial activity. This study highlights the exceptional antibacterial properties of a newly developed natural polymer hydrogel incorporated with Ag nanoparticles with anti-inflammatory action. Hence, the silver-loaded hydrogel proves to be an ideal wound dressing material.