Pendant Functionalized Polyester Nanofibers with Dual Cargo Release

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Conventional polymeric biomaterials struggle with controlled release of multiple bioactive compounds due to limited functionality.
• Achieving separate release profiles for applications like wound healing and tissue engineering often requires complex fabrication or additional components.
• The clinical translation of biomaterials is hindered by the need for precise temporal control of multiple additives in complex biological environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop functional polyester nanofibers capable of controlling the release of multiple bioactive compounds.
• To demonstrate distinct release profiles for model drugs using covalent conjugation and noncovalent interactions.
• To establish a versatile polymer platform for advanced wound healing and tissue engineering applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of electrospun mats from functional polyester, with variations in drug incorporation (blending vs. covalent conjugation).
• Characterization of fiber morphology using scanning electron microscopy and dye presence using fluorescence microscopy.
• Quantification of dye release via UV-vis spectroscopy and material degradation via gel permeation chromatography.

Main Results:

• Distinct release profiles were successfully achieved for two model drugs from the functional polyester nanofibers.
• Fluorescence microscopy confirmed the presence of both blended and conjugated dyes within the fibers.
• The functional polyester platform demonstrated its capability for controlled release and potential for incorporating diverse conjugation chemistries.

Conclusions:

• Functional polyester nanofibers provide a platform for achieving distinct release profiles of multiple bioactive compounds.
• This approach holds significant promise for enhancing wound healing and tissue engineering therapies.
• The inherent versatility in conjugation chemistry offers broad applicability for tailored drug delivery systems.