Bacterial
cellulose (BC) films containing an ethanolic extract of mangosteen peel were prepared and their physical, chemical, and anticancer properties were characterized. The cumulative absorption and release profiles of bioactive compounds in the films were determined based on total phenolic and α-
mangostin content. The BC films were filled with total phenolic compounds expressed as
gallic acid equivalent varying from 4.72 to 275.91 mg/cm3 dried film, and α-
mangostin varying from 2.06 to 248.20 mg/cm3 dried film. A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy evaluation showed that there were weak interactions between the functional groups of the extract and the BC. Decreases in the water absorption capacity and
water vapor transmission rate of the modified films were detected. Release studies were performed using Franz diffusion cells. In a non-transdermal system, the release of bioactive compounds from the films depended on concentration, immersion time, and the pH of the dissolution medium. A transdermal diffusion study showed that 59-62% of total phenolic compounds that were initially loaded were released from the films and more than 95% of bioactive compounds released from the films were adsorbed into pig skin. Only very small amount of the bioactive compounds penetrated through pig skin and into
phosphate and
acetate buffers. In studies of anticancer abilities, the release of 2.0 μg/ml α-
mangostin from the BC films could suppress the growth of B16F10
melanoma (approximately 31% survival). With the release of α-
mangostin at greater than 17.4-18.4 μg/ml, less than 15 and 5% survival of B16F10
melanoma and MCF-7
breast cancer cells, respectively, was observed.