Enhanced Mechanical and Biological Properties of PVA/Chitosan Hydrogels via Green-Synthesized ZnO NPs for Tissue Engineering

Abstract

This study presents the fabrication and characterization of biocompatible hydrogel films composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CH), integrated with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized via a green approach using Ganoderma lucidum extract. The primary objective was to evaluate the effect of varying ZnO NPs concentrations (2.5, 5, and 10 mu g/mL) on the films' mechanical strength, hydrophilicity, swelling behavior, and biological performance to identify an optimal formulation for tissue patch applications. Structural characterization confirmed the successful incorporation of spherical ZnO NPs (similar to 25-50 nm, polydispersity index: 48.69%) within the polymer matrix. Films containing 5 mu g/mL ZnO NPs exhibited the highest tensile strength (75 MPa) and fibroblast viability (95.2%), indicating a well-balanced design. Water contact angle analysis showed enhanced hydrophilicity (as low as 58 degrees), supporting favorable surface interactions for cell adhesion. Swelling studies and antioxidant assays further validated the films' suitability for moist wound environments. The results demonstrate that fungal-mediated ZnO NPs can enhance the multifunctional performance of PVA/CH hydrogels, making them promising candidates for regenerative medicine.