Multilayered nanofibrous hydrogel with Aloe vera and antibiotics promotes functional regeneration of ballistic trauma

Ballistic wounds, resulting from firearm trauma, are complex injuries characterized by severe tissue destruction, cavitation, and a high risk of infection. Localized burning and chemical toxication from combustion byproducts further aggravate damage, making regeneration challenging. Current emergency treatments like pressure bandages and hemostatic agents address acute issues but do not directly promote tissue regeneration. There is a critical gap for biomaterials that can provide mechanical support, deliver therapeutics, and actively facilitate healing in such severe trauma.

Researchers developed a trilayered nanofibrous-hydrogel scaffold incorporating Aloe vera extract and broad-spectrum antibiotics (gentamicin sulphate and vancomycin). The scaffold mimicked native skin layers, with electrospun polycaprolactone/collagen peptide nanofibers forming upper layers for mechanical support and drug delivery, while a PEG-collagen-gelatin hydrogel served as the hypodermal analogue. A novel rat model replicated ballistic trauma's physical and chemical aspects via deep cavity burns and firearm discharge residues, simulating explosive contamination. The scaffold was evaluated for physicochemical, mechanical, antibacterial, and biocompatibility properties.

The developed scaffold exhibited physicochemical and mechanical properties closely matching native skin layers, alongside excellent antibacterial activity and biocompatibility. In vivo studies in the novel rat ballistic trauma model demonstrated significant therapeutic benefits. The scaffold effectively managed infection, a critical challenge in complex wounds.

The biomimetic scaffold led to accelerated wound closure and improved skin regeneration, indicating its potential for functional tissue repair. While specific quantitative data (e.g., percentage reduction in wound size or bacterial load) were not detailed in the abstract, the qualitative outcomes strongly suggest a robust regenerative response. The scaffold's design, combining mechanical support with sustained delivery of Aloe vera and antibiotics, proved effective in mitigating the severe damage associated with ballistic injuries.