Zein-polycaprolactone core-shell nanofibers for wound healing

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Previous electrospun zein/polyethylene oxide (PEO) microfiber scaffolds for wound healing exhibited limitations.
• These limitations included low mechanical strength, poor water stability, and rapid drug release of tetracycline hydrochloride.
• These properties hindered their efficacy as advanced wound dressings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel zein-core/polycaprolactone (PCL)-shell microfiber scaffolds.
• To enhance mechanical properties, water stability, and achieve sustained drug release of tetracycline hydrochloride.
• To create improved biodegradable wound dressings for prolonged application.

Main Methods:

• Electrospinning of zein-core/PCL-shell and zein-core/PCL-PEO-shell microfibers.
• Characterization of fiber morphology, mechanical properties, and water stability.
• In vitro assessment of drug release kinetics and fibroblast cell attachment.

Main Results:

• Zein-PCL fibers showed reduced diameter and hydrophobicity, promoting cell attachment.
• The new scaffolds exhibited significantly improved water stability and mechanical strength compared to controls.
• Sustained release of tetracycline hydrochloride was achieved, alongside good ductility and fibroblast attachment.

Conclusions:

• Zein-PCL microfiber scaffolds represent a significant advancement for wound dressing applications.
• Enhanced mechanical and stability properties, coupled with sustained drug delivery, are crucial for effective wound management.
• These findings pave the way for biodegradable wound dressings with prolonged efficacy and reduced application frequency.