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

Can A., Genç Şimşek S., KIZILBEY K.

Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1002/app.70738
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Compendex, INSPEC
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Ganoderma lucidum, polymeric film, regenerative medicine, wound healing, zinc oxide nanoparticle
  • Yıldız Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

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 μg/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 (~25–50 nm, polydispersity index: 48.69%) within the polymer matrix. Films containing 5 μg/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°), 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.