POLYMERIC BLEND OF ALGINATE/PVA/L-ARGININE FOR WOUND HEALING APPLICATION

Wound healing is a complex biological process that requires a suitable environment to promote tissue regeneration and prevent infections. In this study, we developed a biopolymeric film composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), sodium alginate (SA), and L-arginine (L-ARG), aiming to create an effective and biocompatible wound dressing material. Sodium alginate (SA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) are widely used in biomedical applications due to their excellent film-forming ability, biocompatibility, and capacity to maintain a moist wound environment. Their combination enhances the resulting material's mechanical strength, flexibility, and biological functionality. SA, a natural polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed, consists of β-D-mannuronic acid (M-block) and α-L-guluronic acid (G-block), known not only for its biocompatibility but also for its hemostatic and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to wound healing. PVA, on the other hand, is a hydrophilic, flexible, and non-toxic polymer with excellent gas barrier properties, which helps in moisture retention and oxygen permeability, creating an optimal healing environment. The incorporation of L-arginine, an essential amino acid, further enhances the wound healing potential of the film. L-ARG plays a crucial role in cellular regeneration, collagen synthesis, and tissue repair, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. Its presence in the film formulation supports the natural healing process by stimulating cell proliferation and modulating inflammatory responses, making it a valuable component for advanced wound care applications [5]. To evaluate the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the developed films, we conducted Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), microscopic analysis, and mechanical testing. These characterizations provided insights into the film's structure, flexibility, and potential performance in biomedical applications.