Mangosteen extract-infused bacterial cellulose membranes: Characterization and antimicrobial performance for wound dressing applications

The development of multifunctional wound dressings that combine effective exudate management with robust antimicrobial activity remains a pressing need in modern wound care. Here, we report bacterial cellulose (BC) membranes infused with mangosteen extract (MG) as bioactive wound dressings. The MG/BC membranes exhibited excellent physicochemical properties, including high swelling capacity, moisture retention, and water vapor transmission suitable for wound healing environments. Controlled release studies revealed a biphasic MG release following the Korsmeyer–Peppas model ( R 2 ≈ 0.98), enabling rapid initial antimicrobial action followed by sustained delivery over 24 h. The released concentrations consistently exceeded MIC and MBC thresholds, achieving complete bacterial elimination within 12 h against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, including MRSA. Cytotoxicity assays with normal human dermal fibroblasts confirmed excellent biocompatibility, with cell viability exceeding 100% at therapeutic doses. Compared with commercial wound dressings, MG/BC demonstrated superior antimicrobial efficacy, particularly against resistant strains. This work highlights the potential of MG/BC as a cost-effective, next-generation wound dressing that unites the structural advantages of BC with the therapeutic power of natural xanthones, offering a promising solution for advanced wound care applications.