Antibacterial Polycaprolactone (PCL) 2D Membranes Loaded with Green Tea Carbon Dot-Stabilized Nanoparticle for Improved Oral Tissue Regeneration

Abstract

The polymeric membranes of polycaprolactone (PCL) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) loaded with Ag-CDs (carbon dots) nanoparticles were synthesized via the solution casting method. Membranes and Ag-CDs particles were characterized. Carbon dot-stabilized nanoparticles are known for their excellent biocompatibility and antibacterial properties and are used in this study to enhance the bioactivity of the membranes. These nanomaterials exhibit promising potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine due to their biodegradability and low toxicity. For the preparation of CDs, green tea extract enriched with natural antioxidant compounds was used. The synthesized CDs solution was used for the preparation of Ag nanoparticles. For the synthesis of 2D membranes, biologically active polymers such as PCL and PEG were used. The ratio of PCL to PEG and the amount of Ag-CDs was optimized to prepare a mechanically stable membrane. Prepared membrane samples were subjected to different characterization techniques. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed enhanced mechanical properties with Ag-CDs nanoparticles, with the storage modulus (G′) increased at 25°C. Swelling studies revealed a maximum swelling. UV-Vis spectra of Ag-CDs showed SPR (Surface plasmon resonance) peaks between 200 and 800 nm, and fluorescence emission spectra contained peaks at 340 nm, supporting the successful preparation of CDs nanoparticles. Contact angle measurements affirmed the hydrophilic nature of the prepared membrane. Ag-CDs particles showed antibacterial activity against different strains of bacteria. The FTIR spectra of membranes confirmed the functional groups of the polymer matrix in the range between 400-4000 cm⁻¹. These findings validate the membranes’ efficacy for antibacterial and oral tissue regeneration applications. In summary, characterizations affirm the potential of prepared membranes in the treatment of periodontitis, devoid of adverse effects. Membranes show good result in oral tissue.