Graphene oxide (GO)-reinforced curcumin (CUR)-loaded zein-based electrospun nanofibers for potential wound dressing purposes.

This work produced graphene oxide (GO)-reinforced curcumin (CUR)-loaded zein-based electrospun nanofibers. FTIR and XRD analyses confirmed the formation of interaction between zein, GO, and CUR. However, other than entanglement changes, as confirmed by DSC analysis, this composite formation had little effect on the thermal stability, surface polarity, and crystallinity of the fibers. Meanwhile, the addition of GO increased the tensile strength of the fibers from (0.83 ± 0.19) to (6.87 ± 2.47) MPa, but the incorporation of CUR decreased it to ≈ 2.71 MPa. Cytocompatibility tests confirmed the growth of cells throughout the fibers; release assays indicated a two-stage release. Combined with the low swelling capacity (< 1 g g−1), the fibers absorb exudates, release bioactive molecules into the wound, give the body time to metabolize the released drug, and allow cell proliferation, creating a suitable environment for healing. Despite these results, in vivo are still prospects of this work. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]