Bromelain-Derived Carbon Quantum Dots in Hydrogel Formulations for Enhanced Wound Healing

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore the wound healing potential of bromelain carbon quantum dots (BCQDs), synthesized using microwave technology, incorporated into hydrogel formulations. Materials and Methods: BCQDs were synthesized using 0.2 g bromelain and 1 mL distilled water at 140 °C. The particle size, polydispersity index (PDI) (%), zeta potential, and quantum yield (%) were measured. Hydrogels with three different carbomer concentrations (0.75%, 1%, and 1.5%) were prepared. Their viscosity, pH, texture profile, spreadability, in vitro release, MTT cytotoxicity, and wound healing properties were evaluated in the HaCaT cell line. Results: BCQDs showed blue fluorescence under UV light (365 nm), with a particle size of 9.47 ± 0.02 nm, a PDI of 18.14%, and a zeta potential of −10.03 mV. The quantum yield was 91.7%. The pH of the formulations ranged from 3.6 to 4.4, and the viscosity ranged from 11.7 to 20.6 P. In vitro release was less than 10% in the gels without BCQDs, while the release exceeded 95% in the F2-BCQDs formulation. The MTT assay showed over 80% cell viability at concentrations up to 20 mg/mL. The scratch assay indicated significantly enhanced cell migration in the BCQDs group after 48 h compared with the control (p<0.05). Conclusion: BCQDs-hydrogels stand out as innovative topical delivery systems that promote rapid and effective wound healing due to their superior physicochemical properties and biocompatibility.

Keywords

• Bromelain
• Carbon Quantum Dots
• Wound Healing
• Hydrogel
• Biocompatibility
• Cytotoxicity

References

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