Preparation of polyvinyl alcohol/asiaticoside/chitosan membrane nano-composite using electrospinning technique for wound dressing

Asiaticoside is the most active component of gotu kola plant (Centella asiatica L) which has been proven efficacious in the process of wound healing by increasing fibroblasts and collagen synthesis. Conventional drug form for treating wounds such as ointments, gels and plasters have many disadvantages including not penetrating and optimally absorbing into the tissues and relatively long healing process. Wounds treatments need carriers that can deliver asiaticoside with a good release profile so the effectiveness of wound healing can be optimal. Membrane nano-composite is a drug form that is similar to the body’s extracellular tissue. It can help the wound healing process. This research is carried out to study the characteristics of membrane nano-composite made from PVA-chitosan mixtures as polymers and asiaticosides as active ingredients. Comparison of PVA-chitosan-asiaticoside mixture used is FI (5:0:1), FII (5:0.2:1), F3 (5:0.4:1) and F4 (5:0.5:1). The electrospinning parameters used include; collector distance is 10 cm, the flow rate is 0.3 mL/hr, the voltage used is 20 kV and the diameter of the needle used is 21 G. Then an evaluation of formula solution (pH, Viscosity and Conductivity) and evaluation for membrane nano-composite includes measurement of shape and morphology (FESEM). Membrane nano-composite that have been formed are then tested for the effectiveness of wound healing in vivo using rabbits. The results showed the increasing concentration of chitosan in the formula showed a difference in the morphology of the membrane nano-composite produced and the effectiveness of wound healing process.