Croton Macrostachyus Leaf Extract Loaded Nanofibers for Potential Wound Dressings

Abstract

Croton macrostachyus (CM) is rich in bioactive compounds, including carbohydrates, saccharides, phenolic acids, and diterpenes, known for their antibacterial, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aims to leverage these properties by incorporating CM leaf extract into polycaprolactone–cellulose acetate (PCL–CA) nanofibers to develop advanced wound dressings that prevent infection and promote healing. For the first time, CM leaf extract was successfully integrated into PCL–CA nanofibers via electrospinning. The resulting composite nanofibers were subjected to a comprehensive analysis of their morphology, porosity, crystallinity, thermal stability, hydrophilicity, and mechanical strength. In vitro evaluations assessed antibacterial efficacy, wound healing, cytotoxicity, and drug release profiles. The results demonstrated that PCL–CA–CM nanofibers form interconnected, bead-free structures with fiber diameters of 326 ± 85 nm to 374 ± 92 nm and a porosity of 61–80%. The mats exhibited significant antibacterial activity, reducing Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) by 66.77–99% and Escherichia coli (E. coli) by 58.18–99%. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed minimal toxicity with cell viability exceeding 70%. Furthermore, nanofibers significantly enhanced cell migration. The incorporation of CM also improved hydrophilicity, swelling capacity, and mechanical strength of the mats. These findings collectively highlight the potential of CM-loaded PCL–CA nanofibers as an effective advanced wound care application.