Polycaprolactone/Gelatin Nanofiber Membranes Containing EGCG-Loaded Liposomes and Their Potential Use for Skin Regeneration

Abstract

Polymeric scaffolds incorporating plant-derived compounds, produced by electrospinning, have attracted attention in the field of skin tissue engineering. This study evaluates the sustained antioxidant activity of polycaprolactone (PCL)/gelatin nanofibers prepared by electrospinning and incorporating loaded liposomes of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a strong antibacterial and antioxidant molecule found in green tea, that significantly accelerates the wound-healing process. The morphology and the structural properties of the membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FTIR spectroscopy. Results revealed that the EGCG released from PCL+gelatin nanofibers scavenges the toxic ROS species generated by exposure to either H₂O₂ or UV radiation and slows down the oxidation events associated with damage. This study provides the basis for development of promising nanofiber formulations containing EGCG that might enhance repair/regeneration of skin tissue.