In vitro biocompatibility, antibacterial activity, and release behavior of halloysite nanotubes loaded with diclofenac sodium salt incorporated in electrospun soy protein isolate/hydroxyethyl cellulose nanofibers

The study reported the development of soy protein isolate/hydroxyethyl cellulose nanofibrous mats loaded with diclofenac sodium and halloysite nanotubes for wound care applications. These nanofibers, with an average diameter of ∼450 nm, demonstrated uniform morphology and improved surface wettability. The inclusion of halloysite nanotubes allowed for the sustained release of diclofenac sodium over 14 days. In vitro tests confirmed the biocompatibility of the drug-loaded nanofibers, showing no cytotoxic effects. Additionally, the nanofibers exhibited antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis, indicating their potential for effective wound healing applications.