Development and evaluation of a nanofibrous membrane loaded with green-synthesized silver/ andrographolide nanocomposite for infected wound healing

Chronic wound healing is critically impeded by bacterial infection and excessive inflammation, which drives the need for advanced multifunctional dressings. This study developed a novel nanofibrous wound dressing (GPA@Ag) by incorporating a green-synthesized silver nanocomposite into an electrospun gelatin-pullulan membrane. The nanocomposite was synthesized using a sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin-andrographolide inclusion complex as a natural reductant for in-situ silver nanoparticle formation. The resulting GPA@Ag membrane exhibited a uniform, porous nanofibrous structure, superior hydrophilicity, and suitable mechanical strength. It demonstrated potent broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against common pathogens and high biocompatibility with fibroblast cells. In a full-thickness, Staphylococcus aureus-infected Kunming (KM) mouse wound model, the GPA@Ag dressing significantly accelerated tissue regeneration, achieving a 97.73% wound closure rate within 14 days by effectively reducing inflammation while promoting collagen deposition and re-epithelialization. This work presents a green-fabricated, multifunctional membrane that synergistically combines anti-inflammatory and antibacterial actions, demonstrating great promise for treating infected chronic wounds and advancing regenerative therapy.