Introduction

Kombucha leather is derived from the kombucha fermentation, where a symbiotic  relationship between Komagataeibacter xylinus bacteria and yeast in the starter culture  forms a cellulose mat (pellicle) that floats on the surface. This mat can be dried and  compressed into a versatile material. Previous research suggests the potential of  kombucha pellicle as a biocompatible scaffold for tissue grafting and a good medium to  support human cells to adhere to and proliferate on. With this, our research focuses on the potential of enhancing the inherent properties of kombucha pellicles by  incorporating biopolymers such as PLA, glycerol, and chitosan, to derive the goal of  developing a wound dressing material with improved functionalities of enhanced  pathogen barrier properties to prevent infection, antimicrobial activity to go against  existing wound infections, and increased mechanical strength for better durability. We conducted thorough tensile strength assessments by subjecting each material to  stretching. Notably, the incorporation of PLA significantly improved the biocompatibility  of kombucha leather. Our findings also demonstrate a substantial acceleration in the  durability rate of kombucha leather compared to conventional plastic-based bandages,  even those of just kombucha leather itself.

Experimental Design

There are several steps in this research, including harvesting the SCOBY from kombucha tea, purifying the SCOBY, coating it, and adding the ointment (transdermal drug).

We tested several recipes for making the kombucha tea to manipulate the pellicle's characteristics, as we aim to make it strong, elastic, and not too thick. This includes incorporating PLA and replacing the sugar with honey. After harvesting the SCOBY, we purify the pellicle until all the tea residues are washed off.

SCOBY purification methods:

• Boil with NaOH for 1 hour.

• Neutralize the NaOH solution.

• Immerse the SCOBY with H2O2 for 1 hour.

Added with Transdermal Drug. 

The purified SCOBY is coated with CMC (carboxymethyl chitosan) for several different durations. Then, the coated SCOBY is applied with various kinds of ointments. 

Testing variables.

We tested the drug absorption capability, antimicrobial properties, adhesive properties, and tensile strength.

Result and Analysis

Kombucha pellicle demonstrates promising characteristics for biodegradable, transdermal drug delivery bandages. Prior research has  established its biocompatibility as a scaffold for tissue grafting, indicating  minimal tissue rejection and promoting cell adhesion and growth. Furthermore, its inherent flexibility allows for conformability to various skin surfaces and customizable shapes and sizes for diverse wound needs. While the addition of  chitosan and PLA biopolymers may not have significantly enhanced mechanical strength (control samples withstanding pressure up to 20,000 Pa  compared to SCOBY+CMC samples), their established properties of high  permeability, good mechanical strength in other contexts, non-toxicity, and  biocompatibility suggest a valuable foundation for a drug delivery medium. This  is further supported by the observed adherence of applied medication to the  kombucha bandages. These findings, though requiring further investigation into  mechanical strength optimization, warrant continued exploration of kombucha  pellicle as a base material for biodegradable, transdermal drug delivery bandages. Its biocompatibility, conformability, and potential for drug adherence position has a promising alternative to conventional bandages, potentially reducing plastic pollution while offering new possibilities in wound  management.

Conclusion and Future Work

Initial attempts to enhance the mechanical strength of kombucha pellicle through  the incorporation of PLA and Chitosan did not yield the anticipated results.  However, these experiments provided valuable insights for further optimization strategies. The experiment showed that while the kombucha pellicle exhibited a  degree of self-sustaining mechanical cohesion, it did not necessarily require additional strengthening for all applications. Our investigation into pellicle width as  a variable proved to be a successful approach. By manipulating this parameter, we  were able to develop a mechanically robust, biodegradable, plastic-like structure  using Chitosan. Interestingly, pellicle thickness was also found to influence  coloration. Thinner versions produced a lighter hue, while thicker versions yielded  a darker shade, potentially offering a wider range of applicability for diverse skin  tones. Microbial testing revealed that kombucha leather lacks inherent antibacterial  properties. This finding presents an opportunity for the strategic integration of  established antibacterial solutions into the material. Such modifications could  significantly enhance the functionality of kombucha leather bandages. Future research endeavors should prioritize the development of dedicated commercial packaging. This will not only extend the shelf life of the kombucha leather  bandages by ensuring sterility but also improve their overall appeal to potential  users in a clinical setting. Through the meticulous optimization and control of relevant production processes as such, a viable and well-used product can be  achieved.