Green synthesized silver nanoparticles loaded PVA/Starch cryogel scaffolds with antibacterial properties

In this study, Polyvinyl alcohol/Starch (PVA/Starch) cryogel scaffolds were combined with antibacterial silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and the antimicrobial properties of composite scaffolds were determined for potential in tissue engineering applications. The porous PVA/Starch scaffolds were prepared by cryogelation technique. The nanoparticles were prepared by green synthesis from Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and characterized. The antibacterial, antifungal and antiyeast properties of AgNPs and AgNPs loaded PVA/Starch cryogel scaffolds were investigated. The highest antimicrobial activity of composite scaffold was found against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Based on our studies, the results indicate that biodegradable, biocompatible and antimicrobial AgNPs loaded PVA/Starch scaffolds have potential to be used at an infection site in tissue engineering applications.