Development of Alginate/Carboxymethylcellulose Films Incorporated with Canavalia Ensiformis Lectin (ConA) with Angiogenic Properties

The study investigates the development of alginate/carboxymethylcellulose films with Canavalia ensiformis lectin (ConA) to promote angiogenesis, essential for tissue repair and wound healing. The films significantly enhanced vascularization in a chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane assay. Characterized as transparent, flexible, and homogeneous, the films' properties varied with cross-linking levels, affecting swelling and mass loss. ConA incorporation altered thermal properties and facilitated interactions with the film matrix, enhancing water absorption, making them suitable for wound dressings. The films increased the expression of angiogenic factors like TGF-β and VEGF, supporting endothelial cell adhesion and proliferation, suggesting potential therapeutic applications in wound healing and ischemic disease treatment, especially for diabetic wounds.