Electrospun core-shell structured nanofilm as a novel colon-specific delivery system for protein

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Effective colon-specific delivery of proteins remains a challenge.
• Protein therapeutics require advanced delivery systems to protect them from degradation and ensure targeted release.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel core-shell structured nanofilm for colon-specific protein delivery.
• To evaluate the stability and release profile of encapsulated protein in simulated digestive environments.

Main Methods:

• Coaxial electrospinning of alginate (shell) and bovine serum albumin (BSA)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (core).
• Characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM).
• In vitro release studies in simulated digestive fluids.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated core-shell nanofilms with a smooth surface and confirmed structure via microscopy.
• Encapsulated BSA maintained its secondary structure with minimal changes.
• Approximately 75% of BSA was released in simulated colonic fluid, indicating colon-specific release.
• BSA release in the colon followed a complex release mechanism.

Conclusions:

• Electrospun core-shell nanofilms represent a promising strategy for colon-specific delivery of bioactive proteins.
• The developed system offers potential for enhanced protein therapeutic efficacy through targeted delivery.