Validation of Lipophosphonoxin-loaded Polycaprolactone Nanofiber Dressing for Full-thickness Wounds in a Porcine Model.

Abstract

Background/aim: This study investigated the therapeutic potential of lipophosphonoxin (LPPO), an antibacterial agent, loaded into polycaprolactone nanofiber dressings (NANO-LPPO) for full-thickness wound healing. Using a porcine model, we aimed to assess the impact of areal weight of the dressing (10, 20 and 30 g/m²) on wound-healing outcomes and validate findings from previous murine studies.

Materials and methods: Full-thickness wounds were created on porcine skin and treated with the NANO-LPPO dressings of differing thickness. Positive control (Aquacel Ag+) and standard control (Jelonet) groups were included for comparison. Wound-healing progression was evaluated macroscopically and on the histological level.

Results: Macroscopic observations indicated no signs of infection in any group, with wounds covered by scabs by day 14. Thicker dressings (areal weights of 30 and 20 g/m²) demonstrated superior performance in promoting the formation of granulation tissue and healing compared to the thinner version (areal weight of 10 g/m²). LPPO-loading enhanced scaffold wettability and biodegradability without impairing healing outcomes. Both control groups exhibited similar healing characteristics.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of optimizing dressing thickness for effective wound healing. NANO-LPPO dressings exhibit translational potential as a therapeutic option for full-thickness wounds, warranting further preclinical and regulatory evaluation to support clinical application.