Chitosan/Snail slime films as multifunctional platforms for potential biomedical and cosmetic applications: physical and chemical characterization

Due to the pollution problem, using more sustainable materials with a reduced environmental impact, spanning across biocompatible and biodegradable polymers, is growing worldwide in many different fields, particularly when referring to applications in Life Sciences. Accordingly, in perspective to develop multifunctional materials for potential cosmetic/biomedical purposes, this work reports the physical and chemical characterization of chitosan-based films blended with Snail Slime, exhibiting antioxidant and sunscreen features. A suitable formulation for preparing free-standing chitosan platforms, mixing low molecular weight chitosan, lactic acid, glycerol, and Snail Slime into an appropriate ratio, is thus described. Morphologic analyses evidence a snail mucus uniform distribution inside the chitosan network, forming more compacted and strongly cross-linked structures. ATR-FTIR spectroscopies, XRD, and WVTR measurements confirm the findings. The swelling measurements (also varying pH, ionic strength, and temperature) and contact angle analyses assess the film stability in the water medium, showing as blends with snail mucus appeared slightly more stable. The UV-Vis analysis is used to infer the theoretical Sun Protection Factor, suggesting these innovative platforms for preventing sunburn. The antioxidant features are finally investigated using the ABTS assay, displaying a Snail Slime-mediated and dose-dependent boosted activity.