Enhanced wound healing and antibacterial efficacy of a novel chitosan quaternary ammonium salt gel incorporating Echinacea purpurea extract

Wound healing is a complex and dynamic process involving hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. This study introduces Chitagel, a novel wound-healing gel formulated with 4 % (w/w) chitosan quaternary ammonium salt, 0.1 % (w/w) polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), and 6 % (w/w) Echinacea purpurea extract, designed to provide antibacterial and antioxidant properties. To enhance hydration, 2 % (w/w) dexpanthenol, 10 % (w/w) glycerin, and 4 % (w/w) sorbitol were incorporated as humectants. In vitro analysis demonstrated 92.3 % inhibition of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and 89.63 % antioxidant activity via the DPPH assay. Water content analysis confirmed a 62.9 % hydration level, facilitating a moist wound environment. Zeta potential measurement (+44.9 mV) indicated colloidal stability, ensuring sustained antimicrobial activity. In an MRSA-infected rat wound model, Chitagel significantly accelerated wound closure, achieving 82.5 % healing by day 15, compared to 54.3 % in the untreated group. The MTT assay showed enhanced fibroblast proliferation, with 400 μg/mL stimulating the highest cell viability. Histological analysis confirmed improved re-epithelialization, reduced inflammation, and granulation tissue formation. These findings highlight Chitagel as a promising therapeutic for infected wounds, combining antibacterial, antioxidant, and regenerative properties. Further clinical studies are required to validate its efficacy and safety in human applications and to establish its role as a novel wound-healing agent.