Biocompatible and Biodegradable Plant-Based Burn Dressings: A Sustainable Approach for Skin Regeneration

Traditional biomedical products often utilize petroleum-based polymers, contributing to long-term environmental pollution due to their nonbiodegradable nature. In response, this study introduces a novel class of sustainable, eco-friendly skin burn dressings using naturally derived materials, including zein and lignin, combined with poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP). An antioxidant molecule, rutin, is embedded into the matrices, and its sustained release from various formulations is assessed. Unlike previous approaches, this work integrates a dual perspective: therapeutic efficacy and environmental sustainability. Comprehensive evaluations of the biocomposites include morphological, mechanical, and breathability assessments, as well as biodegradability studies, which demonstrate significant biodegradation in both aqueous environments (biochemical oxygen demand up to 22 mg O2/100 mg material) and soil (over 75% weight loss after 4 weeks) compared to commercial patches. In vitro analyses reveal substantial protection against oxidative stress in keratinocytes, with outstanding biocompatibility also observed in fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Histological examinations and the analysis of inflammatory markers in pre- and postburn in vivo mice models confirm the materials' efficacy in both prevention and treatment of skin burns. By aligning with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this comprehensive study takes a promising step toward developing sustainable and effective dressings for burn care and beyond.