Fabrication and Evaluation of Coaxial Core-Shell Electrospun Curcuma xanthorrhiza Nanofibres with Antibacterial Activity

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic wounds are a major global health concern because their slow healing increases the risk of infection. Conventional dressings often fail to provide both effective antibacterial protection and optimal moisture control. Electrospun nanofibre membranes, with porous structures that resemble the extracellular matrix, offer a promising alternative. Curcuma xanthorrhiza, a traditional Southeast Asian rhizome, is rich in bioactive compounds such as curcumin and xanthorrhizol, which are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Methods: In this study, coaxial electrospinning was used to create core–shell nanofibre membranes, featuring polycaprolactone as the core and a gelatine/chitosan blend as the shell. Curcuma extract was incorporated at 1% (w/w) into the core. The resulting fibres were examined for their morphology, chemical composition, and thermal stability using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Antibacterial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using the disc diffusion method. Results and Discussion: Nanofibres loaded with Curcuma extract were smooth, continuous, and nanoscale in diameter, while fibres without extract were thicker due to a higher polymer concentration. The average fibre diameter ranged from 120.3 to 284.2 nm. Chemical analysis confirmed successful incorporation of the extract, with characteristic functional groups preserved and clear interactions between the polymers and bioactive compounds. Thermal analysis showed the fibres were stable up to 300°C. Antibacterial testing of C. xanthorrhiza-loaded nanofibres demonstrated no activity against S. aureus (0 mm) and E. coli (0 mm). Conclusion: In this study, C. xanthorrhiza-loaded nanofibres exhibit promising physical and chemical properties in their formulation. While the antibacterial activity was limited at the current tested concentration, it is suggested that the loading capacity of the extract be increased.