Synthesis and characterization of dialdehyde alginate and chitosan-based ciprofloxacin enriched Hydrogel for wound healing

Antimicrobial hydrogels have attracted considerable interest from researchers because of their potential applications for wound management, drug delivery and tackling infections. In this research, we outline the preparation and characterization of a new Schiff base hydrogel derived from dialdehyde alginate (DAA) and Chitosan and incorporated with Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride (CFH), a well-known antibiotic agent to improve the antimicrobial activity of the hydrogel. The hydrogel was prepared through oxidation of the sodium alginate to aldehyde functional groups using sodium periodate and then formed crosslinks with chitosan using Schiff base reactions. Ciprofloxacin was encapsulated into the hydrogel to further increase the antimicrobial activity. The polymer and hydrogels were characterized by different parameter, including Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for confirmation of successful Schiff base formation; Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) for structural morphology assessment; other tests to establish gelation properties and swelling behaviours. The results indicated that the hydrogel had excellent antimicrobial abilities with CFH had a controlled release capability and good stability. Our study revealed the potential that this CHI-DAA-based Schiff base antimicrobial hydrogel has the ability to be a biocompatible and effective material for healthcare applications such as infection control and wound healing.