Optimization and characterization of dextran membranes prepared by electrospinning

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Dextran's solubility in water and organic solvents makes it a versatile biomacromolecule.
• Electrospun membranes are promising for biomedical applications.
• Developing methods to create functional dextran-based nanofibrous membranes is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate electrospun dextran membranes.
• To investigate the effects of processing parameters on membrane properties.
• To explore the incorporation of bioactive agents and polymers into dextran membranes.

Main Methods:

• Electrospinning using water, DMSO/water, and DMSO/DMF solvent mixtures.
• Incorporation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lysozyme.
• Preparation of composite membranes with poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA).
• Modification of dextran with methacrylate groups for cross-linking.
• UV curing of methacrylated dextran membranes with a photoinitiator (DMPA).

Main Results:

• Uniform nanofibrous dextran membranes were successfully formed by adjusting processing conditions.
• Up to 10% (w/w) BSA or lysozyme could be incorporated without compromising membrane morphology.
• Lysozyme activity remained unaffected by the electrospinning process.
• Composite membranes of PLGA and dextran were fabricated.
• Methacrylated dextran membranes were effectively cross-linked via UV irradiation.

Conclusions:

• Electrospun dextran membranes are versatile for biomedical applications.
• Processing parameters significantly influence membrane morphology.
• Dextran membranes can effectively incorporate bioactive agents and blend with biodegradable polymers.
• Methacrylated dextran provides a route for creating cross-linked, UV-curable nanofibrous membranes.