Bactericidal Activity of Usnic Acid-Loaded Electrospun Fibers

Background: Usnic acid has been progressively reported in the literature as one of the most important lichen metabolites characterized by a rich diversity of applications such as antifungal, antimicrobial, antiprotozoal and antiviral agent. Particularly, antimicrobial activity of usnic acid can be improved by encapsulation of active molecules in enteric electrospun fibers, allowing the controlled release of active molecule at specific pH. Few relevant patents to the topic have been reviewed and cited. Methods: Bactericidal activity of usnic acid-loaded electrospun fibers of Eudragit L-100 and polyvinylpyrrolidone was examined against Staphylococcus aureus using inhibition hales methodology. Results: The controlled release of active material at high pH is established after 10 minutes of interaction with media and results in reasonable activity against S. aureus, as detected by inhibition hales. Conclusion: The strong biological activity of usnic acid-loaded electrospun fibers provides a promising application for corresponding material as a bactericidal agent for wound healing treatment.