Optimization, characterization, and evaluation of carrageenan/alginate/poloxamer/curcumin hydrogel film as a functional wound dressing material

Curcumin belongs to a group of multipurpose drugs that can enhance the wound healing process. In this paper, films based on natural polysaccharides - κ-carrageenan and alginate - were prepared with added synthetic polymer poloxamer 407 to use these carriers for curcumin encapsulation and further apply them in wound healing. The film preparation process (film composition, components ratio, and crosslinking time) has been optimized. Curcumin, as a drug model, has been incorporated into optimal films. Structure, morphology, thermal properties, and the crystallinity degree of optimal films were determined using infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray diffraction method. The in vitro release of curcumin from films was monitored for 24 h, achieving its cumulative release with a maximum release rate of 87.64%. The formation of complexes based on carrageenan, alginate, and poloxamer and the interaction of these complexes with curcumin were studied using theoretical models, AIM and NBO analysis. The effect of prepared films on cell viability was also examined. Films with incorporated curcumin were found to accelerate wound healing, both in in vitro and in vivo conditions, indicating their potential as new transdermal wound healing systems.