Enrichment of creatine-gelatin cryogel with Zataria multiflora essential oil and titanium dioxide nanoparticles as a potential wound dressing

The prevalence of microbial infections in wounds, particularly burn wounds, presents a significant medical concern due to the inherent vulnerability of compromised skin to pathogen colonization and invasion. This study focused on the synthesis and evaluation of a creatine-gelatin cryogel, enriched with Zataria multiflora essential oil and titanium dioxide nanoparticles for potential wound dressing applications. The chemical and physical characteristics of the formulation were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and mechanical tests. Further studies such as wound fluid absorptivity, water vapor transmission rate, solubility, moisture content, porosity, and release properties were investigated. The release test demonstrated an encapsulation efficiency of 98.8 % and a loading capacity of 16.45 %, signifying a suitable cryogel matrix. The disk diffusion assay demonstrated that the synthesized cryogel had excellent antimicrobial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus , Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli , and Candida species. Additionally, the cryogel exhibited great cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility (similar to 100 %). Our findings suggest that the creatine-gelatin cryogel blend enriched with Zataria multiflora essential oil and titanium dioxide nanoparticles possesses structural integrity, a cell-friendly nature, moisture-retaining capabilities, and biocompatible characteristics. These properties collectively render it an exceptionally suitable material for advanced wound dressings. Moreover, the demonstrated functional properties of the cryogel, including its ability to prevent infection, exhibit antioxidant activity, and retain moisture, underscore its potential for effective burn wound management.