Electrospun polyvinyl alcohol/carboxymethyl cellulose loaded with Asphaltum Punjabianum (Shilajit) nanofibrous mats for potential cartilage regeneration applications.

Current developments in tissue engineering methods and conventional implants continue to face challenges in tackling the complex avascular characteristics of articular cartilage, hindering effective repair and tissue regeneration. To overcome these challenges, this study primarily aims to achieve a synergistic solution by processing Asphaltum Punjabianum (Shilajit) incorporated polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) nanofibrous mats through electrospinning. The processed electrospun fibers were comprehensively analyzed through scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), antimicrobial assay, degradation studies, surface roughness measurements, rheological studies, and assessment of cell viability. SEM images displayed fiber diameters as minimal as 36 nm. The FTIR analysis revealed the presence of humic acid in the fibers, which is the fundamental component responsible for antibacterial activity. The PVA/CMC/Shilajit nanofibrous mats exhibited a suitable elastic modulus of about 110 MPa and ultimate tensile strength around 40 MPa, surpassing the previously reported PVA/chitosan nanofibers. Contrary to the earlier reported systems, which measured a limited surface roughness of 0.78 μm, the Shilajit-loaded mats achieved a surface roughness of the value 1.7 μm, which lies in the optimal range of 1.0-2.0 μm for better cell adhesion and proliferation. The mats displayed favorable swelling ratio of 80 % on day 7, which enabled better cell migration and the exchange of nutrients beyond the limitations of typical hydrogels, that often lack interconnected porous structures. Moreover, the degradation profile showed that the mats exhibited a rapid 27 % degradation rate through the first 48 h, promoting rapid cell infiltration while sustaining degradation until the value reached 52 % over 14 days, ensuring structural longevity. The system demonstrated superior antimicrobial properties conferred through the incorporation Shilajit into the scaffolds, with E. coli exhibiting a 24 mm inhibition zone and S. aureus exhibiting a 34 mm inhibition zone, therefore enhancing the antibacterial properties of the scaffolds. The thorough analysis of characteristics like surface roughness, degradability, and cell proliferation renders nanofibrous mats an appropriate option for cartilage repair. The comprehensive examination of these nanofibrous mats confirms their potential socio-economic benefits in tackling significant issues in cartilage regeneration.