Coating and Characterization of Plant-Based Antibiotics via Layer-By-Layer (LBL) on Commercial Bandage

Abstract

This study investigated the extraction of Curcumin, a plant-based antibiotic and the coating ability on commercial bandage by the use of a layer-by-layer (LBL) technique for the purpose of harnessing the antibacterial properties of the plant-based antibiotics to facilitate targeted wound therapy. 2 mg/mL of solutions admix of amylase and extracted curcumin, chitosan, and carboxy-methyl cellulose (CMC) were prepared at room temperature. The coating procedure involves dipping of the commercial bandage (2cm x 6cm) in the solution of chitosan for 180 seconds for 10 LBL, washed in aqua dest for 3 seconds, the treated bandage is further coated with CMC for 180 seconds for another 10 LBL. The treated bandage was washed again in aqua dest for another 3 seconds before finally coated with admix of amylase and curcumin. The coated bandage was again washed in aqua dest after which was allowed to be air dried. Extracted chitosan and carboxy-methyl cellulose (CMC) served as the positive and negative charges for the deposition and the barrier layers respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was employed to characterize the structure of the deposited layers using SEM-EDX Joel-JSM-7600K.  LBL deposition successfully coated the commercial bandage with curcumin, as confirmed by SEM and EDX analysis. This study confirmed the potential of LBL technique for introducing plant-based antibiotics into existing wound dressings. This study is aimed at making a scholarly contribution to the field of wound care by employing nanotechnology and natural antimicrobial agents to enhance patient outcomes and alleviate the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance in the healthcare sector.