Multifunctional Silk Fibroin–Curcuminoid Films Combining Regenerative and Antioxidant Properties with pH Sensing for Wound Dressing Applications

Abstract

The management of chronic wounds represents one of the major challenges in regenerative medicine, as the healing process can be compromised by infections, oxidative stress, and persistent inflammation. In this context, wound pH serves as an important biomarker of tissue status, highlighting the need for smart dressings capable of promoting regeneration while simultaneously monitoring the wound microenvironment. In this study, biomimetic silk fibroin films functionalized with curcuminoids extracted from Curcuma longa were developed and characterized through spectroscopic, swelling/degradation, antioxidant, colorimetric, and biological assays, with the aim of obtaining a multifunctional dressing with regenerative properties and pH responsiveness. The results showed that curcuminoids were physically incorporated into the protein matrix without altering its chemical structure. The films exhibited a high absorption ability and antioxidant activity in the initial stages, and a clear and reversible color change in response to pH. Biological assays on 3T3 fibroblasts further confirmed the high cytocompatibility of the materials and their ability to support cell migration and wound closure in vitro. The developed films represent a promising biomimetic platform for advanced wound dressings, capable of combining support for tissue regeneration, antioxidant protection, and visual monitoring of wound status through the detection of pH changes.