assessing the loading and release of metronidazole from bacterial cellulose film as a pharmaceutical dressing

Background: Bacterial cellulose membrane (BCM) produced by Gluconacetobacter xylinus is an advantageous bacterial product and because of its unique properties could be used as an ideal dressing. The aim of this study was to consider the capability of this biomaterial in the release of Metronidazole. In the case of proving this capability, it provides the basis for the production of a dressing containing this type of antibiotic. Materials and Methods: In this study, BCM was initially synthesized by Gluconacetobacter xylinus. The BCM was loaded by Metronidazole. Then the release process was considered in distilled water and buffer phosphate Saline. The ultra violet spectrophotometry was applied for measuring the concentration of the released drug. Results: The chemical structure of bacterial cellulose was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The release of Metronidazole in distilled water and phosphate buffered Saline was reached to 84.27% and 84.71%, respectively. Due to higher release in phosphate buffered Saline media, it seems that the trend of release in vitro provides efficient results. Conclusion: Results of this study provides the basis for future research on supplying an ideal dressing from this microbial product.