Biological, physicochemical, structural, and thermal properties of PVA-based electrospun wound dressings added with hydrolyzed collagen (HC) and different concentrations of Hypericum perforatum ethanolic extract (EEHP) were studied. Membrane characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, barrier properties, scanning electron microscopy, image analysis (diameter and pore size), as well as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Results showed that the PVA/HC/EEHP materials, fabricated under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity, generated fiber membranes with diameters between 140−390 nm, adequate porosity and pore size for cell growth (67−90% and 4−16 µm, respectively), and good barrier properties (0.005−0.032 g·m−2 s−1) to be used in the treatment of conditions on the skin, and was even better than some commercial products. Finally, they showed to have anti-inflammatory (>80%), and antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and S. epiderm. Furthermore, higher crystalline structure was observed according to the EEHP concentration. In addition, this is the first report in which PVA/HC/EEHP membranes are successfully fabricated and characterized.
Keywords: Hypericum perforatum; electrospinning; hydrolyzed collagen; polyvinyl alcohol; wound dressing.