Exploration of Antimicrobial and Cell Proliferation Properties of Nanofibers Incorporating Nopal (O. cochenillifera) Extract

Author

Cristobal Rodriguez, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

5-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Robert Gilkerson

Second Advisor

Dr. Karen Lozano

Third Advisor

Dr. Megan Keniry

Abstract

This study focused on the fabrication of Forcespinning® nanofibers composed of Opuntia cochenillifera, ‘nopal’, mucilage (N) extract, chitosan (CH), and pullulan (PL) (N/CH/PL) were developed with an optimum fiber average diameter of 406±127 nm, and studied for their ability to sustain adhesion and proliferation of mouse embryonic fibroblast (NIH 3T3) cells. After a 6-day incubation period, N/CH/PL nanofibers displayed robust cell proliferation, while also exhibiting inhibitory properties through an N extract dip-coating process against gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli in a 24 h bacterial growth study. A demonstration of integrated natural bioactive compounds with combined biodegradable polymers, provide an enhanced environment for cell growth, leading to a possible natural alternative for wound dressing applications.

Comments

Copyright 2021 Cristobal Rodriguez. All Rights Reserved.

https://go.openathens.net/redirector/utrgv.edu?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/exploration-antimicrobial-cell-proliferation/docview/2742635125/se-2?accountid=7119

Recommended Citation

Rodriguez, Cristobal, "Exploration of Antimicrobial and Cell Proliferation Properties of Nanofibers Incorporating Nopal (O. cochenillifera) Extract" (2021). Theses and Dissertations. 757.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/757