A novel controlled release system based on Tragacanth nanofibers loaded Peppermint oil

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Tragacanth, a natural polymer, is explored for advanced material applications.
• Peppermint oil possesses known therapeutic properties but lacks efficient delivery systems.
• Controlled release systems are crucial for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize Tragacanth nanofibers loaded with Peppermint oil.
• To evaluate the controlled release behavior of Peppermint oil from the nanofibers.
• To assess the antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity of the developed nanocarrier.

Main Methods:

• Sonochemical/microemulsion technique for synthesizing Tragacanth nanofibers.
• Loading of Peppermint oil into the nanofibers.
• Characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR).
• In vitro release studies and antibacterial assays against E. coli and S. aureus.
• Cytotoxicity assessment using human fibroblast cells.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized 1D Tragacanth nanofibers with 58 nm thickness and smooth surfaces.
• Confirmed successful loading of Peppermint oil within the nanofibers via FT-IR analysis.
• Achieved a high controlled release of Peppermint oil (92.38%) over 18 hours.
• Demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus.
• Exhibited low cytotoxicity against human fibroblast cells.

Conclusions:

• The sonochemical/microemulsion method effectively produced Peppermint oil-loaded Tragacanth nanofibers.
• The developed nanofibers provide a stable and effective controlled release system for Peppermint oil.
• The Peppermint oil-loaded nanofibers show potential as a safe and effective antibacterial agent with low cytotoxicity.