Multifunctional novel xanthan gum-based composite films incorporating hyaluronic acid and graphene oxide for thermally assisted in vivo wound healing

This study developed a multifunctional, thermo-responsive wound dressing composed of xanthan gum (Xn), hyaluronic acid (HA), and graphene oxide (GO). The film (Xn/HA/GO) was crosslinked using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC). FTIR analysis confirmed successful crosslinking through characteristic peaks at 1560 cm⁻¹ (-C-O[sbnd]C-) and 1700 cm⁻¹ (-C-O[sbnd]C = O-), indicating the formation of ester bonds. The resulting film exhibited desirable physical properties, including a gel content of 87.4 %, water content of 80.0 %, and the tensile strength of 52.82 MPa. MTT assays showed no cytotoxicity and after 48 h of cell culture, Xn/HA/GO increased L929 fibroblast viability by 1.51-fold, respectively, compared to control. In vivo, mice with subcutaneous wounds treated with Xn/HA/GO and NIR laser (805 nm, 42 °C, 20 min/day, 7 days) showed a 36.2 % wound reduction and no inflammation. Masson's trichrome staining showed 1.82-fold more collagen in the photothermal group compared to Xn/HA/GO without thermal therapy, respectively. These results highlight the potential of Xn/HA/GO composite films as multifunctional wound dressings that combine mechanical robustness, photothermal responsiveness, and biocompatibility for accelerated wound healing.