Cerium Oxide Nanoparticle Incorporated Electrospun Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-<i>co</i>-3-hydroxyvalerate) Membranes for Diabetic Wound Healing Applications

Abstract

Insufficient cell proliferation, cell migration, and angiogenesis are among the major causes for nonhealing of chronic diabetic wounds. Incorporation of cerium oxide nanoparticles (nCeO₂) in wound dressings can be a promising approach to promote angiogenesis and healing of diabetic wounds. In this paper, we report the development of a novel nCeO₂ containing electrospun poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-<i>co</i>-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) membrane for diabetic wound healing applications. <i>In vitro</i> cell adhesion studies, chicken embryo angiogenesis assay, and <i>in vivo</i> diabetic wound healing studies were performed to assess the cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and wound healing potential of the developed membranes. The experimental results showed that nCeO₂ containing PHBV membranes can promote cell proliferation and cell adhesion when used as wound dressings. For less than 1% w/w of nCeO₂ content, human mammary epithelial cells (HMEC) were adhered parallel to the individual fibers of PHBV. For higher than 1% w/w of nCeO₂ content, cells started to flatten and spread over the fibers. <i>In ovo</i> angiogenic assay showed the ability of nCeO₂ incorporated PHBV membranes to enhance blood vessel formation. <i>In vivo</i> wound healing study in diabetic rats confirmed the wound healing potential of nCeO₂ incorporated PHBV membranes. The study suggests that nCeO₂ incorporated PHBV membranes have strong potential to be used as wound dressings to enhance cell proliferation and vascularization and promote the healing of diabetic wounds.