Vanillin-crosslinked chitosan/PVA membranes loaded with dexpanthenol for skin tissue regeneration

A patch that can avoid wound infection and promote tissue remodeling is of great value for wound healing. Herein, a series of skin-repairing dressings consisting of dexpanthenol (Dex)-loaded polymer membranes were fabricated using chitosan (CS)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) crosslinked with vanillin (VA). CS is a natural polysaccharide; it is biocompatible and biodegradable, with enhanced bioadhesive and wound-healing properties. PVA is a synthetic polymer that presents nontoxicity, good biodegradability, biocompatibility, and good mechanical properties. Vanillin, a primary extract of vanilla bean, is widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, foods, and beverages; it has one aldehyde and one hydroxyl group in its structure, making it an active crosslinker. Dexpanthenol is well absorbed when applied topically to the skin and supports skin regeneration by enhancing epidermal differentiation and facilitating wound healing. The successful synthesis of the CS/PVA/VA-Dex membranes was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, their crystallinity was analyzed by X-Ray Diffraction, and the surface morphology of the membranes was studied with Scanning Electron Microscopy. Additionally, their water sorption and water content capacity were investigated, and their stability in different conditions was measured. Moreover, the encapsulation efficiency and release rate of dexpanthenol from the prepared products were studied using UV-vis spectroscopy. Finally, the cytotoxicity, antibacterial properties, cell adhesion, and wound-healing capacity of all prepared wound-healing dressings were examined in vitro.