Zein-Based Electrospun Fibers Containing Bioactive Glass with Antibacterial Capabilities

Zein, a natural protein from corn, has important applications in food and pharmaceutical industries due the fact that it is biodegradable and biocompatible. However, due its relatively low mechanical properties and water solubility, many inorganic compounds (e.g., bioactive glasses [BGs]) have been used in combination with zein to obtain composite materials with improved mechanical properties. Such inorganic additions provide further biological functionality to zein. In this work, fiber mats of zein with incorporation of BG and copper doped BG particles are successfully obtained by electrospinning. At first the electrospinnability of the blends is assessed, then the morphological and chemical characterization of the mats is done. Degradation study in cell culture medium (Dubelcco's modified Eagle's medium) reveals a sufficient strength of the fibers, which in turn is necessary for in vitro cellular studies. Cell culture studies using MG-63 and C2C12 cells show promising results, demonstrating increased cell proliferation and growth for fiber mats containing both types of BGs. Also, evaluation with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria confirms the antibacterial activity of the scaffolds containing copper. The presence of Cu thus imparts antibacterial properties without influencing cell behavior. The developed electrospun fibers represent a novel scaffold system for tissue engineering applications.