Pectin Nanoparticle-Loaded Soft Coral Nephthea sp. Extract as In Situ Gel Enhances Chronic Wound Healing: In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Studies

The study examines the wound healing potential of a pectin nanoparticle-loaded soft coral Nephthea sp. extract formulated as an in situ gel (SCN-LPN2-ISG). Conducted on 24 male Wistar rats, the research demonstrated significant improvements in diabetic wound healing, with a 95% wound closure rate by day 15 in the treated group compared to 50% in untreated groups. The formulation effectively reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines and showed enzymatic inhibition against GSK-3 and MMP-1, crucial for wound re-epithelialization. Molecular docking and in silico studies supported the gel's mechanism of action, highlighting its potential as an effective treatment for chronic wounds.