Pracaxi oil (Pentaclethra macroloba)-loaded nanofibers: a promising biomaterial for wound healing

Abstract Background Chronic and complex wounds remain a significant clinical challenge, requiring biomaterials that can provide structural support and bioactive signaling. Pentaclethra macroloba (Pracaxi) oil is recognized for its regenerative properties; its integration into advanced delivery systems, such as electrospun nanofibers, which offer high surface area and mimic extracellular matrix, remains unexplored. This work aimed to develop and characterize poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanofibers loaded with Pracaxi oil (OP) as an innovative bioactive dressing for wound healing. Methods The chemical profile of OP was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). PLA/OP nanofibers (1%–20% w/w) were produced via electrospinning process and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermal analysis (DSC/TGA). Biological performance was evaluated using human keratinocyte (HaCaT) viability (MTT assay) and cell migration (scratch assay). Results CG-MS identified 11 fatty acids (98.95%), with oleic acid (50.93%) and behenic acid as the primary bioactive component. OP incorporation influenced fiber diameter and induced the formation of beads, which reduced the mat porosity. The oil acted as a plasticizer, slightly decreasing the glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermal stability, while the amorphous structure of PLA was preserved. Nanofibers containing up to 15% w/w of OP demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, with cell viability exceeding 100%. The 15% w/w of OP formulation was identified as the optimal system, significantly accelerating keratinocyte migration compared to pure PLA and control groups ( p < 0.01). Conclusions This study successfully integrated OP into PLA nanofibers for the first time. The resulting membrane combines the structural advantages of nanofibers with the therapeutic benefits of PO. Specifically, the 15% w/w formulation is a promising biomimetic scaffold for wound healing. Future in vivo studies are suggested to confirm these findings. Graphical abstract