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Polyacrylonitrile nanofibrous mat from electrospinning: Born with potential anti-fungal functionality
Nafisa Sirelkhatim1, Arifa Parveen1, Dennis LaJeunesse2
1Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, North Carolina A&T State University, 2907 E Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27401, USA.
European Polymer Journal
|February 16, 2024
Summary
Electrospun polyacrylonitrile (ESPAN) nanofibrous mats inhibit yeast growth and alter cell morphology. This physical interaction, distinct from other PAN materials, suggests ESPAN mats possess inherent antifungal properties.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Electrospun nanofibers are increasingly used in commercial products, leading to environmental exposure.
- The biological implications of interactions between electrospun nanofibrous mats and fungi are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between electrospun polyacrylonitrile (ESPAN) nanofibrous mats and yeast cells.
- To determine if ESPAN nanofibrous mats exhibit antifungal properties.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans to ESPAN nanofibrous mats.
- Comparison of cellular responses to ESPAN mats versus other forms of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) materials.
- Exploration of the mechanisms underlying yeast-nanofiber interaction.
Main Results:
- ESPAN nanofibrous mats significantly reduced yeast growth rate and viability.
- Yeast cells exposed to ESPAN mats showed radical morphological changes.
- These effects were distinct from interactions with solid film or microfibrous PAN materials.
Conclusions:
- ESPAN nanofibrous mats possess inherent anti-yeast and potential antifungal functionality.
- The interaction involves both nanofiber morphology and surface properties.
- ESPAN mats offer a novel approach for controlling microbial growth through physical contact.
