Introduction and Objectives: The management of chronic wounds, particularly diabetic foot ulcers, remains a major clinical challenge since infection control, pH regulation, and controlled release of bioactive agents must be achieved simultaneously. In this study, biodegradable composite wound dressings based on chitosan/sodium alginate (Ch/SAG) containing magnesium metal–organic framework (Mg-MOF) and curcumin (Cur) were designed and fabricated. The objectives of this research included: synthesis and characterization of Mg-MOF particles, investigation of the effects of different Mg-MOF concentrations (0, 2, 5, and 10 wt.%) on the physicochemical and morphological properties of the dressings, and evaluation of water absorption, degradation behavior, and curcumin release profiles. The novelty of this work lies in the simultaneous integration of curcumin’s antibacterial and antioxidant functions with the pH-regulating and drug-carrier properties of Mg-MOF within a biocompatible polymeric matrix.
Materials and Method: Mg-MOF particles were synthesized via the hydrothermal method. The composite dressings were prepared with a fixed Ch:SAG ratio (80:20), a constant curcumin concentration (0.1 mg/mL), and varying Mg-MOF contents. Structural and morphological features were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer, Field Emission Scanining Electron Microscopy, and Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy. Functional properties—including pH variation, water absorption, degradation, and drug release—were evaluated in Phosphate Buffer Saline.
Results: FTIR and FESEM analyses confirmed the composite structure and interactions among the components. Increasing Mg-MOF concentration shifted the pH toward the optimal acidic range (~5) for wound healing. The sample containing 5 wt.% Mg-MOF exhibited the highest water absorption (220 ± 15%, p < 0.01) and a more sustained drug release, whereas the 10 wt.% sample demonstrated greater structural stability.
Conclusion: Simultaneous incorporation of Mg-MOF and curcumin significantly improved the physicochemical and functional properties of the Ch/SAG-based dressings, particularly in terms of pH regulation, water absorption, and controlled drug release. The 5 wt.% Mg-MOF concentration was identified as the optimal level for achieving the best performance.