Urea-Based Patches with Controlled Release for Potential Atopic Dermatitis Treatment

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Textile Engineering
• Dermatology

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) and other skin diseases are prevalent globally, with current treatments often relying on pharmaceuticals and topical ointments.
• Electrospun membranes offer a promising drug delivery system due to their high surface area and loading capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate skin patches manufactured from electrospun polymer membranes for the treatment of various skin conditions.
• To investigate the manufacturing strategies and urea release profiles of these novel skin patches.

Main Methods:

• Skin patches were fabricated using electrospun poly(vinyl butyral-co-vinyl alcohol-co-vinyl acetate) (PVB) fibers.
• Urea was incorporated into the PVB fibers through blend electrospinning and electrospraying techniques.
• Cumulative urea release was measured over time to assess drug delivery efficiency.

Main Results:

• The highest cumulative urea release was achieved with PVB patches manufactured via blend electrospinning, incorporating 5% urea.
• Maximum urea concentration was reached within 30 minutes, followed by a sustained release for 6 hours.
• Simultaneous electrospinning and electrospraying resulted in lower urea incorporation and release.

Conclusions:

• Urea-based skin patches produced by blend electrospinning demonstrate significant potential for overnight treatment of skin conditions, including AD.
• These findings suggest a new direction for textile-based therapeutic approaches in dermatology.