Improved Hemostatic Efficacy of Graviola-Modified PVA–HA Hydrogels for Wound Healing: In Vitro and In Vivo Analysis

Abstract

The formation of a hydrogel for wound dressing can be achieved through the combination of different materials having unique properties. Graviola fruit extract (GrE) not only imparts antimicrobial properties to the hydrogel but also contributes to the potential acceleration of wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, the freeze–thaw method was employed to create composite hydrogels consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, hyaluronic acid, cross-linked with glutaraldehyde, and GrE. The study evaluated various properties of the gels, including swelling, porosity, gel fraction, and morphology. The obtained results indicated that the physicochemical characteristics of the hydrogels were affected by the level of GrE. The hydrogels had a significant capacity to absorb wound exudate, and their porous structure increased with GrE addition. Our results proved that different GrE-based hydrogels (Gr₁ and Gr₂) treatments exhibited excellent hemolysis, hemostasis, antibacterial activity, and wound healing promotion. They also inhibited proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and exhibited higher wound repair capacity. CD-31 and collagen I increased significantly in wound tissues treated with Gr₁ and Gr₂ hydrogels. So, Gr₁ and Gr₂ hydrogels have demonstrated their potential as valuable local treatment and management for full-thickness wounds.