Gelatin cryogels enriched with tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia): characterization, antibacterial properties

Cryogel, a porous polymer material that is frequently used in recent years, has been evaluated in conjunction with alternative treatment methods. Natural polymers are well known for their high biocompatibility, and as a result, there are many studies that focus on the relationship between structure and function in plant-based biopolymers. To this end, various dressing materials, including gelatin, alginate, chitosan, and inorganic materials, have been developed as biopolymers. In this study, gelatin-based cryogels containing three different concentrations of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree plant) oil (TTO-GCry) were synthesized under specified conditions, and characterization studies were carried out. Their antibacterial activity was evaluated using two bacterial strains ( E. coli and S. aureus ). The results showed that the antibacterial effectiveness of the developed cryogels on E. coli was between 21–50%, and on S. aureus was between 28–72%. Furthermore, viability analysis using human keratinocyte cell lines (HaCaT) showed no toxic effects. The cryogel exhibited biocompatibility, indicating promise for use in skin injury and wound healing applications. This environmentally friendly cryogel, with a macroporous structure and composed of natural materials, holds potential for diverse functions, bringing novelty to the literature.