Bacterial inhibition via carboxymethyl cellulose-containing electrospun mats loaded with nisin z peptide for potential chronic wound care

Abstract

Nisin Z is an amphipathic peptide with a significant antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and low toxicity in humans. Here, we report the production of nanofibrous mats by co-electrospinning of the peptide with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) polymers for prospective wound dressing applications. The mats were studied against four of the most common bacteria found in chronic wounds. The evaluation of bacteria membrane permeability and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) showed that chelating agent ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) can expand the activity of Nisin Z against Gram-negative bacteria. PVA (10 wt%)/CMC (3 wt%) electrospinning nanofibers were successfully produced at a 70/30 % (v/v) polymer ratio. The addition of Nisin Z to the polymer solutions did not alter the properties of the fibers.