Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun PVA/Elastin/Honey Nanofiber Scaffolds for Skin Regeneration

Effective wound care and infection prevention are critical for optimal wound healing. Recent advancements in tissue engineering have focused on developing nanofiber scaffolds using biopolymers, which mimic the natural extracellular matrix and offer enhanced healing properties. This study investigates the fabrication of nanofiber scaffolds composed of elastin protein and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) via electrospinning, with honey incorporated for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) analysis revealed uniform, interconnected, bead-free fibers with diameters ranging from 365 to 435 nm. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of elastin and honey in the nanofibers. The scaffolds exhibited mechanical properties within the range of human skin, indicating their suitability for wound protection. Water vapor permeability (WVTR) tests showed values ranging from 400.2 to 413.08 g/m²/day, ensuring proper gas exchange and maintaining a humid environment conducive to healing. The PVA/elastin/honey (PVA/EL/H) nanofibrous mats displayed exceptional antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In vivo studies on rat models provided further evidence for the therapeutic potential of PVA/EL/H dressing with the wound closure rate of 89.17% by day fourteen. Overall, the PVA/EL/H nanofibrous mats are a promising candidate for next-generation wound care solutions due to their combined effective antibacterial activity, and improved wound healing outcomes.