Introduction: Effective wound care and infection prevention are critical for optimal wound healing. Recent advancements in tissue engineering have focused on developing nanofiber scaffolds using biopolymers, which mimic the natural extracellular matrix and offer enhanced healing properties. This study investigates the fabrication of nanofiber scaffolds composed of elastin (EL) protein and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) via electrospinning, with honey (H) incorporated for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Methods: The morphology of the nanofibers was analyzed using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), and their chemical composition was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) was measured to evaluate moisture balance. Antibacterial activity was tested against Gram-positive and Gramnegative bacteria, and in vivo studies were conducted on rat models. Results: FESEM analysis revealed uniform, interconnected, bead-free fibers with diameters ranging from 365 to 435 nm. FTIR confirmed the presence and physical integration of elastin and honey in the nanofibers. WVTR values ranged from 400.2 to 413.08 g/m²/24 h, ensuring proper gas exchange. The PVA/elastin/honey (PVA/EL/H) nanofibrous mats displayed exceptional antibacterial activity and achieved a wound closure rate of 89.17% by day 14 in rats. Discussion: The physicochemical tests confirmed the uniform morphology and the presence of elastin and honey in the nanofibers, supporting their structural and bioactive roles and providing a moist environment for treatment. In vitro experiments showed enhanced antibacterial effects and promoted faster wound closure. Finally, the results of in vivo tests (n = 36) confirmed superior healing in the PVA/EL/H group (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The PVA/EL/H nanofibrous mats are a promising candidate for next-generation wound care solutions due to their combined antibacterial activity and improved wound healing outcomes.
Oshrieh et al. (Tue,) studied this question.