Baicalein loaded chitosan films: An innovative aapproach for the treatment of oral infections
Oral infections such as periodontitis, peri implantitis, or wound healing complications after tooth extractions remain major challenges in dentistry. Commonly used antibiotics or systemic therapies often reach their limits: drug concentrations at the infection site are frequently insufficient, while side effects and resistance development pose additional risks. For this reason, locally active, bioactive materials are gaining increasing attention in research.
A Polish research team has now developed chitosan films loaded with the natural compound baicalein, which could serve as multifunctional membranes for applications in oral medicine.
Why baicalein and chitosan?
Baicalein is a flavonoid extracted from the root of Scutellaria baicalensis (skullcap) that has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries. It exhibits anti inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, including activity against the cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans.
Chitosan, derived from chitin, is a versatile biopolymer known for its antimicrobial properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. When combined with gelatin, it forms flexible and stable films that adapt well to moist oral tissues.
Development and properties of chitosan baicalein films
The researchers produced nine different film formulations, varying in chitosan molecular weight and gelatin content. The results showed:
Uniform drug distribution
Microscopic analyses confirmed a homogeneous incorporation of baicalein.
Controlled drug release
The films provided constant baicalein release over extended periods (zero order kinetics).
Mechanical stability
The formulation containing medium molecular weight chitosan (F5) demonstrated the best balance of flexibility and strength.
Bioactivity
The films exhibited strong antioxidant and anti inflammatory effects, as well as antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans.
An additional advantage: due to baicalein’s natural yellow coloration, the membranes are more visible during surgical procedures, improving handling in clinical practice.
Potential applications in dentistry
Baicalein chitosan films could be used in various dental applications, including:
- Periodontal therapy as barrier membranes for guided tissue regeneration (GTR)
- Peri implantitis treatment to protect implant surfaces
- Post extraction wound healing as resorbable, bioactive membranes
- Prophylaxis to reduce bacterial load in the oral cavity
Outlook
The study clearly demonstrates that chitosan as a carrier material, combined with natural bioactive compounds such as baicalein, holds great promise for regenerative dentistry. The modular manufacturing process also enables the integration of additional active ingredients, paving the way for personalized therapies and innovative solutions to improve oral health.
Paczkowska-Walendowska, M.; Rył, A.; Kwiatek, J.; Rosiak, N.; Szarzyński, K.; Wawrzyniak, W.; Ziółkowska, J.; Kuderska, W.; Kręcka, K.; Marciniak, A.; et al.
Baicalein-Loaded Chitosan Films for Local Treatment of Oral Infections.
Polymers 2025, 17, 2167. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17162167
First published on 4th of September2025
Revised on 10th of September 2025