Hierarchical chitosan-lignocellulosic duplex system: An in vitro evaluation of controlled release, anti-pathogenic and hemostatic effects

Critical design challenges that affect novel drug delivery systems concern chemical processing and tissue compatibility of source materials, which highlight the need for sustainable, biocompatible materials and versatile manufacturing methods. This investigation leverages the unique surface chemistry of biomass-derived lignocellulose substrates to form biocomposite frameworks with effective antipathogenic and hemostatic properties via noncovalent synthesis. Complementary electrostatic interactions support a highly porous biocomposite framework, according to spectral (IR, Raman and NMR) and microscopy results. Biocomposite complexes with antipathogenic agents (gentamicin and rifamycin salts) are revealed by kinetic release profiles, as noted by an initial burst and sustained release profile under physiological conditions. In vitro biocompatibility was demonstrated by MTT cell viability assays (ca. 90 % after 48 h). Anti-pathogenic effects are revealed by agar diffusion assays with E. coli (up to 16 mm inhibition zones). In vitro blood sorption, cell adhesion and blood clotting index (BCI) results of biocomposites reveal impressive blood absorption capacity (ca. 10-fold; w/w) with good cell adhesion and efficient hemostatic properties with BCI below 2 %. This study challenges the current limits of specialized biomedical applications of lignocellulose fiber-chitosan biocomposites via in-vitro results at bioactive interfaces for anti-infective targeted drug delivery and trauma management.