A Novel Bacoside A–Loaded Thermoresponsive In Situ Hydrogel for Accelerated Acute Wound Healing

Objectives: To design and strengthen a thermosensitive in-situ hydrogel containing Bacoside A for enhanced wound healing, focusing on optimal gelling characteristics, mucoadhesion, and antimicrobial efficacy. Methods: Statistical optimization was used to construct thermosensitive hydrogels out of Poloxamer 407 and xantham gum. The physicochemical properties, drug content, rheology, and mucoadhesion of the formulations were analyzed in depth. Response surface methodology optimized gelling temperature and mucoadhesive strength. Ex-vivo permeation studies were conducted, followed by stability assessment and antimicrobial evaluation contrary E. coli and S. aureus. Results: The optimized formulation (RF6) exhibited ideal gelling temperature (33.78±0.78°C), mucoadhesive strength (2989.5±0.284 dyne/cm²), and viscosity (3185±0.923 cps). The statistical model showed high predictability (R²>0.999) for both responses. Drug dispersion was persistent in ex vivo experiments, with 96.67±0.88% penetration at a flow of 11.59 µg/cm²/h and 8 hours. The formulation showed significant antibacterial activity with domains of restraint of 24.3±0.62 mm (E. coli) and 23.8±1.06 mm (S. aureus), comparable to the marketed standard. Product integrity was validated by stability studies over a six-month period with little variance in pertinent parameters. Conclusion: A potential substitute for traditional wound healing formulations, the established Bacoside A thermosensitive in situ hydrogel boasts intriguing qualities for wound healing applications by combining optimal gelling properties, sustained drug release, and significant antimicrobial activity.