| dc.description.abstract | This study explores the fabrication and evaluation of egg white protein (EWP) hydrogels and
chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) of varying molecular weights for their potential applications in
wound healing. COS samples with molecular weights of 10 kDa, 6 kDa, and 3 kDa were
synthesized and characterized, revealing significant reductions in molecular weight over time
and the maintenance of a consistent degree of deacetylation. The synthesis process also indicated
the formation of a more homogeneous COS composition, which is crucial for ensuring reliable
biological responses. Incorporating COS into EWP hydrogels extended their degradation time,
likely due to ionic crosslinking between alginate and COS molecules. This extension of
degradation time is beneficial for maintaining a moist wound environment, though the optimal
degradation rate must be carefully balanced to avoid excessive moisture that could impede
healing. In vitro experiments demonstrated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of
EWP and EWP/COS10 hydrogels, with COS effectively inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines
and mediators in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Lower molecular weight COS (3 kDa and 6 kDa)
were found to be safe for cell lines, promoting cell proliferation at low concentrations. However,
the in vivo model using Swiss albino mice revealed challenges. While the EWP and COS-loaded
hydrogels maintained a moist environment and formed a protective layer over wounds, the
excessive moisture delayed wound healing. Tissue examination showed incomplete recovery and
a lack of peritoneal layer formation, unlike the untreated group and the commercial Dematrix
product, which facilitated better wound recovery and tissue regeneration. The study highlights
the need to optimize hydrogel formulations for effective wound healing. Adjustments to the
amount of hydrogel applied humidity levels, drying times, and pH levels are essential to enhance
the therapeutic effects of COS. Future research should focus on refining these parameters to
maximize the clinical efficacy of EWP and COS-loaded hydrogels in wound management and
tissue repair. Overall, this study underscores the potential of EWP and COS hydrogels as
promising candidates for wound healing applications, provided their formulations are
meticulously tailored to balance moisture levels and promote efficient tissue reg | en_US |
