Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications

A special issue of Pharmaceutics (ISSN 1999-4923). This special issue belongs to the section "Nanomedicine and Nanotechnology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 May 2022) | Viewed by 44662

Special Issue Editors

Laboratório de Sistemas POliméricos e Supramoleculares, Instituto de Física Química, Universidade Federal de Itajubá, Itajubá 37500-903, MG, Brazil
Interests: cyclodextrin; polymer; electrospinning; chromism; hybrid materials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Grupo de Pesquisa em Biopolímeros e Biomateriais (BioPolMat), Universidade de Araraquara (Uniara), Araraquara, São Paulo 14801-050, Brazil
Interests: biopolymers; nanocomposites; medical and pharmaceutical devices; biological control
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Electrospun fibers have attracted much attention because of their potential applications for a broad spectrum of applications, including those related to environmental protection, heterogeneous catalysis, smart materials, surface coating, encapsulation of bioactive species, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. These fibers have been electrospun using natural, synthetic or hybrid materials to deliver drugs, grown factors, proteins, DNA, RNA, and so on. Electrospinning has been considered a versatile method capable of producing polymeric fibers, ranging from micrometers to ultrafine ones, being assembled into ordered arrays or hierarchical structures (e.g., uniaxial, coaxial, and Janus, among others). Electrospun fibers used for biomedical applications have taken advantage of their high surface area to volume ratio, tunable porosity, mechanical properties, favorable environment for drug insertion, biocompatibility, and capability of further surface and/or interior functionalization. In this sense, the development of long-acting drug formulations using electrospinning approach has been investigated to overcome challenges with drug resistance and tissue engineering.

Prof. Dr. Frederico B. De Sousa
Prof. Dr. Hernane S. Barud
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • electrospinning
  • polymers
  • fibers
  • materials
  • drug delivery

Published Papers (15 papers)

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Editorial

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5 pages, 488 KiB  
Editorial
Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications
by Hernane S. Barud and Frederico B. De Sousa
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(8), 1556; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14081556 - 26 Jul 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1261
Abstract
Considered a simple and versatile technique, electrospinning has emerged as a technology for developing 3D materials for a wide range of applications [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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Research

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13 pages, 2532 KiB  
Article
Development of Imeglimin Electrospun Nanofibers as a Potential Buccal Antidiabetic Therapeutic Approach
by Ali A. Alamer, Nasser B. Alsaleh, Alhassan H. Aodah, Abdullah A. Alshehri, Fahad A. Almughem, Sarah H. Alqahtani, Haya A. Alfassam and Essam A. Tawfik
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(4), 1208; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics15041208 - 11 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3094
Abstract
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been growing worldwide; hence, safe and effective antidiabetics are critically warranted. Recently, imeglimin, a novel tetrahydrotriazene compound, has been approved for use in T2D patients in Japan. It has shown promising glucose-lowering properties by improving [...] Read more.
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been growing worldwide; hence, safe and effective antidiabetics are critically warranted. Recently, imeglimin, a novel tetrahydrotriazene compound, has been approved for use in T2D patients in Japan. It has shown promising glucose-lowering properties by improving pancreatic beta-cell function and peripheral insulin sensitivity. Nevertheless, it has several drawbacks, including suboptimal oral absorption and gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort. Therefore, this study aimed to fabricate a novel formulation of imeglimin loaded into electrospun nanofibers to be delivered through the buccal cavity to overcome the current GI-related adverse events and to provide a convenient route of administration. The fabricated nanofibers were characterized for diameter, drug-loading (DL), disintegration, and drug release profiles. The data demonstrated that the imeglimin nanofibers had a diameter of 361 ± 54 nm and DL of 23.5 ± 0.2 μg/mg of fibers. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) data confirmed the solid dispersion of imeglimin, favoring drug solubility, and release with improved bioavailability. The rate of drug-loaded nanofibers disintegration was recorded at 2 ± 1 s, indicating the rapid disintegration ability of this dosage form and its suitability for buccal delivery, with a complete drug release after 30 min. The findings of this study suggest that the developed imeglimin nanofibers have the potential to be given via the buccal route, thereby achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes and improving patient compliance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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15 pages, 2121 KiB  
Article
Design of Hybrid Polymer Nanofiber/Collagen Patches Releasing IGF and HGF to Promote Cardiac Regeneration
by Eloise Kerignard, Audrey Bethry, Chloé Falcoz, Benjamin Nottelet and Coline Pinese
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(9), 1854; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14091854 - 02 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1697
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally. Myocardial infarction in particular leads to a high rate of mortality, and in the case of survival, to a loss of myocardial functionality due to post-infarction necrosis. This functionality can be restored by cell [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally. Myocardial infarction in particular leads to a high rate of mortality, and in the case of survival, to a loss of myocardial functionality due to post-infarction necrosis. This functionality can be restored by cell therapy or biomaterial implantation, and the need for a rapid regeneration has led to the development of bioactive patches, in particular through the incorporation of growth factors (GF). In this work, we designed hybrid patches composed of polymer nanofibers loaded with HGF and IGF and associated with a collagen membrane. Among the different copolymers studied, the polymers and their porogens PLA-Pluronic-PLA + PEG and PCL + Pluronic were selected to encapsulate HGF and IGF. While 89 and 92% of IGF were released in 2 days, HGF was released up to 58% and 50% in 35 days from PLA-Pluronic-PLA + PEG and PCL + Pluronic nanofibers, respectively. We also compared two ways of association for the loaded nanofibers and the collagen membrane, namely a direct deposition of the nanofibers on a moisturized collagen membrane (wet association), or entrapment between collagen layers (sandwich association). The interfacial cohesion and the degradation properties of the patches were evaluated. We also show that the sandwich association decreases the burst release of HGF while increasing the release efficiency. Finally, we show that the patches are cytocompatible and that the presence of collagen and IGF promotes the proliferation of C2C12 myoblast cells for 11 days. Taken together, these results show that these hybrid patches are of interest for cardiac muscle regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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27 pages, 10632 KiB  
Article
Novel In Situ-Cross-Linked Electrospun Gelatin/Hydroxyapatite Nonwoven Scaffolds Prove Suitable for Periodontal Tissue Engineering
by Martin Philipp Dieterle, Thorsten Steinberg, Pascal Tomakidi, Jiri Nohava, Kirstin Vach, Simon Daniel Schulz, Elmar Hellwig and Susanne Proksch
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(6), 1286; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14061286 - 16 Jun 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2473
Abstract
Periodontal diseases affect millions of people worldwide and can result in tooth loss. Regenerative treatment options for clinical use are thus needed. We aimed at developing new nonwoven-based scaffolds for periodontal tissue engineering. Nonwovens of 16% gelatin/5% hydroxyapatite were produced by electrospinning and [...] Read more.
Periodontal diseases affect millions of people worldwide and can result in tooth loss. Regenerative treatment options for clinical use are thus needed. We aimed at developing new nonwoven-based scaffolds for periodontal tissue engineering. Nonwovens of 16% gelatin/5% hydroxyapatite were produced by electrospinning and in situ glyoxal cross-linking. In a subset of scaffolds, additional porosity was incorporated via extractable polyethylene glycol fibers. Cell colonization and penetration by human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs), or cocultures of both were visualized by scanning electron microscopy and 4′,6-diamidin-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining. Metabolic activity was assessed via Alamar Blue® staining. Cell type and differentiation were analyzed by immunocytochemical staining of Oct4, osteopontin, and periostin. The electrospun nonwovens were efficiently populated by both hMSCs and PDLFs, while scaffolds with additional porosity harbored significantly more cells. The metabolic activity was higher for cocultures of hMSCs and PDLFs, or for PDLF-seeded scaffolds. Periostin and osteopontin expression was more pronounced in cocultures of hMSCs and PDLFs, whereas Oct4 staining was limited to hMSCs. These novel in situ-cross-linked electrospun nonwoven scaffolds allow for efficient adhesion and survival of hMSCs and PDLFs. Coordinated expression of differentiation markers was observed, which rendered this platform an interesting candidate for periodontal tissue engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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20 pages, 5437 KiB  
Article
In-Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Curcumin-Loaded Nanofibers Based on Hyaluronic Acid against Multidrug-Resistant ESKAPE Pathogens
by Petr Snetkov, Elizaveta Rogacheva, Arina Kremleva, Svetlana Morozkina, Mayya Uspenskaya and Liudmila Kraeva
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(6), 1186; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14061186 - 31 May 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2490
Abstract
Bacterial infections have accompanied humanity throughout its history and became vitally important in the pandemic area. The most pathogenic bacteria are multidrug-resistant strains, which have become widespread due to their natural biological response to the use of antibiotics, including uncontrolled use. The current [...] Read more.
Bacterial infections have accompanied humanity throughout its history and became vitally important in the pandemic area. The most pathogenic bacteria are multidrug-resistant strains, which have become widespread due to their natural biological response to the use of antibiotics, including uncontrolled use. The current challenge is finding highly effective antibacterial agents of natural origin, which, however, have low solubility and consequently poor bioavailability. Curcumin, derived from Curcuma longa, is an example of a natural biologically active agent with a wide spectrum of biological effects, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. However, curcumin exhibits extremely low antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria. Curcumin’s hydrophobicity limits its use in medicine. As such, various polymeric systems have been used, especially biopolymer-based electrospun nanofibers. In the present study, the technological features of the fabrication of curcumin-loaded hyaluronic acid-based nanofibers are discussed in detail, their morphological characteristics, wettability, physico-chemical properties, and curcumin release profiles are demonstrated, and their antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistant ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) are evaluated. It is noteworthy that the fibers containing a stable HA–curcumin complex showed high antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, which is an undeniable advantage. It is expected that the results of this work will contribute to the development of antibacterial drugs for topical and internal use with high efficacy and considerably lower side effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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18 pages, 2708 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Differentiation Capacity and Transplantation Efficacy of Insulin-Producing Cell Clusters from Human iPSCs Using Permeable Nanofibrous Microwell-Arrayed Membrane for Diabetes Treatment
by In Kyong Shim, Seong Jin Lee, Yu Na Lee, Dohui Kim, Hanse Goh, Jaeseung Youn, Jinah Jang, Dong Sung Kim and Song Cheol Kim
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 400; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020400 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2522
Abstract
Although pancreatic islet transplantation is a potentially curative treatment for insulin-dependent diabetes, a shortage of donor sources, low differentiation capacity, and transplantation efficacy are major hurdles to overcome before becoming a standard therapy. Stem cell-derived insulin-producing cells (IPCs) are a potential approach to [...] Read more.
Although pancreatic islet transplantation is a potentially curative treatment for insulin-dependent diabetes, a shortage of donor sources, low differentiation capacity, and transplantation efficacy are major hurdles to overcome before becoming a standard therapy. Stem cell-derived insulin-producing cells (IPCs) are a potential approach to overcoming these limitations. To improve the differentiation capacity of the IPCs, cell cluster formation is crucial to mimic the 3D structure of the islet. This study developed a biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun nanofibrous (NF) microwell-arrayed membrane permeable to soluble factors. Based on the numerical analysis and experimental diffusion test, the NF microwell could provide sufficient nutrients, unlike an impermeable PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) microwell. The IPC clusters in the NF microwells showed higher gene expression of insulin and PDX1 and insulin secretion than the PDMS microwells. The IPC clusters in the NF microwell-arrayed membrane could be directly transplanted. Transplanted IPC clusters in the microwells survived well and expressed PDX1 and insulin. Additionally, human c-peptide was identified in the blood plasma at two months after transplantation of the membranes. The NF microwell-arrayed membrane can be a new platform promoting IPC differentiation capacity and realizing an in situ transplantation technique for diabetic patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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16 pages, 2435 KiB  
Article
Fast-Dissolving Nifedipine and Atorvastatin Calcium Electrospun Nanofibers as a Potential Buccal Delivery System
by Hassa A. Alshaya, Ahmed J. Alfahad, Fatemah M. Alsulaihem, Alhassan H. Aodah, Abdullah A. Alshehri, Fahad A. Almughem, Haya A. Alfassam, Ahmad M. Aldossary, Abdulrahman A. Halwani, Haitham A. Bukhary, Moutaz Y. Badr, Salam Massadeh, Manal Alaamery and Essam A. Tawfik
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 358; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020358 - 04 Feb 2022
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3498
Abstract
Geriatric patients are more likely to suffer from multiple chronic diseases that require using several drugs, which are commonly ingested. However, to enhance geriatric patients’ convenience, the electrospun nanofiber system was previously proven to be a successful alternative for the existing oral dosage [...] Read more.
Geriatric patients are more likely to suffer from multiple chronic diseases that require using several drugs, which are commonly ingested. However, to enhance geriatric patients’ convenience, the electrospun nanofiber system was previously proven to be a successful alternative for the existing oral dosage forms, i.e., tablets and capsules. These nanofibers prepared either as single- or multi-layered fibers could hold at least one active compound in each layer. They might also be fabricated as ultra-disintegrated fibrous films for oral cavity administration, i.e., buccal or sublingual, to improve the bioavailability and intake of the administered drugs. Therefore, in this work, a combination of nifedipine and atorvastatin calcium, which are frequently prescribed for hypertension and hyperlipidemia patients, respectively, was prepared in a coaxial electrospinning system for buccal administration. Scanning electron microscopy image showed the successful preparation of smooth, non-beaded, and non-porous surfaces of the drug-loaded nanofibers with an average fiber diameter of 968 ± 198 nm. In contrast, transmission electron microscopy distinguished the inner and outer layers of those nanofibers. The disintegration of the drug-loaded nanofibers was ≤12 s, allowing the rapid release of nifedipine and atorvastatin calcium to 61% and 47%, respectively, after 10 min, while a complete drug release was achieved after 120 min. In vitro, a drug permeation study using Franz diffusion showed that the permeation of both drugs from the core–shell nanofibers was enhanced significantly (p < 0.05) compared to the drugs in a solution form. In conclusion, the development of drug-loaded nanofibers containing nifedipine and atorvastatin calcium can be a potential buccal delivery system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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21 pages, 6237 KiB  
Article
Co-Delivery of Docosahexaenoic Acid and Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor from Electrospun Aligned Core–Shell Fibrous Membranes in Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury
by Zhuo-Hao Liu, Yin-Cheng Huang, Chang-Yi Kuo, Chi-Cheng Chuang, Ching-Chang Chen, Nan-Yu Chen, Ping K. Yip and Jyh-Ping Chen
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 321; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020321 - 28 Jan 2022
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 2570
Abstract
To restore lost functions while repairing the neuronal structure after spinal cord injury (SCI), pharmacological interventions with multiple therapeutic agents will be a more effective modality given the complex pathophysiology of acute SCI. Toward this end, we prepared electrospun membranes containing aligned core–shell [...] Read more.
To restore lost functions while repairing the neuronal structure after spinal cord injury (SCI), pharmacological interventions with multiple therapeutic agents will be a more effective modality given the complex pathophysiology of acute SCI. Toward this end, we prepared electrospun membranes containing aligned core–shell fibers with a polylactic acid (PLA) shell, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or a brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) in the core. The controlled release of both pro-regenerative agents is expected to provide combinatory treatment efficacy for effective neurogenesis, while aligned fiber topography is expected to guide directional neurite extension. The in vitro release study indicates that both DHA and BDNF could be released continuously from the electrospun membrane for up to 50 days, while aligned microfibers guide the neurite extension of primary cortical neurons along the fiber axis. Furthermore, the PLA/DHA/BDNF core–shell fibrous membrane (CSFM) provides a significantly higher neurite outgrowth length from the neuron cells than the PLA/DHA CSFM. This is supported by the upregulation of genes associated with neuroprotection and neuroplasticity from RT-PCR analysis. From an in vivo study by implanting a drug-loaded CSFM into the injury site of a rat suffering from SCI with a cervical hemisection, the co-delivery of DHA and BDNF from a PLA/DHA/BDNF CSFM could significantly improve neurological function recovery from behavioral assessment, as well as provide neuroprotection and promote neuroplasticity changes in recovered neuronal tissue from histological analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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22 pages, 7336 KiB  
Article
Uni-Directionally Oriented Fibro-Porous PLLA/Fibrin Bio-Hybrid Scaffold: Mechano-Morphological and Cell Studies
by Andrew F. Uehlin, Jeremy B. Vines, Dale S. Feldman, Elijah Nyairo, Derrick R. Dean and Vinoy Thomas
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 277; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020277 - 25 Jan 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2076
Abstract
In this study, we report a biohybrid oriented fibrous scaffold based on nanofibers of poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA)/fibrin produced by electrospinning and subsequent post-treatment. Induced hydrolytic degradation of the fibers in 0.25 M NaOH solution for various time periods followed by the [...] Read more.
In this study, we report a biohybrid oriented fibrous scaffold based on nanofibers of poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA)/fibrin produced by electrospinning and subsequent post-treatment. Induced hydrolytic degradation of the fibers in 0.25 M NaOH solution for various time periods followed by the immobilization of fibrin on the hydrolyzed fiber surfaces was shown to significantly affect the mechanical properties, with the tensile strength (40.6 MPa ± 1.3) and strain at failure (38% ± 4.5) attaining a value within the range of human ligaments and ligament-replacement grafts. Unidirectional electrospinning with a mandrel rotational velocity of 26.4 m/s produced highly aligned fibers with an average diameter of 760 ± 96 nm. After a 20-min hydrolysis treatment in NaOH solution, this was further reduced to an average of 457 ± 89 nm, which is within the range of collagen bundles found in ligament tissue. Based on the results presented herein, the authors hypothesize that a combination of fiber orientation/alignment and immobilization of fibrin can result in the mechanical and morphological modification of PLLA tissue scaffolds for ligament-replacement grafts. Further, it was found that treatment with NaOH enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs and the additional inclusion of fibrin further enhanced osteogenic differentiation, as demonstrated by decreased proliferative rates and increased ALP activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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20 pages, 6930 KiB  
Article
Engineered Full Thickness Electrospun Scaffold for Esophageal Tissue Regeneration: From In Vitro to In Vivo Approach
by Silvia Pisani, Stefania Croce, Simone Mauramati, Marta Marmonti, Lorenzo Cobianchi, Irene Herman, Rossella Dorati, Maria Antonietta Avanzini, Ida Genta, Marco Benazzo and Bice Conti
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 252; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020252 - 21 Jan 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2373
Abstract
Acquired congenital esophageal malformations, such as malignant esophageal cancer, require esophagectomy resulting in full thickness resection, which cannot be left untreated. The proposed approach is a polymeric full-thickness scaffold engineered with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to promote and speed up the regeneration process, [...] Read more.
Acquired congenital esophageal malformations, such as malignant esophageal cancer, require esophagectomy resulting in full thickness resection, which cannot be left untreated. The proposed approach is a polymeric full-thickness scaffold engineered with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to promote and speed up the regeneration process, ensuring adequate support and esophageal tissue reconstruction and avoiding the use of autologous conduits. Copolymers poly-L-lactide-co-poly-ε-caprolactone (PLA-PCL) 70:30 and 85:15 ratio were chosen to prepare electrospun tubular scaffolds. Electrospinning apparatus equipped with two different types of tubular mandrels: cylindrical (∅ 10 mm) and asymmetrical (∅ 10 mm and ∅ 8 mm) were used. Tubular scaffolds underwent morphological, mechanical (uniaxial tensile stress) and biological (MTT and Dapi staining) characterization. Asymmetric tubular geometry resulted in the best properties and was selected for in vivo surgical implantation. Anesthetized pigs underwent full thickness circumferential resection of the mid-lower thoracic esophagus, followed by implantation of the asymmetric scaffold. Preliminary in vivo results demonstrated that detached stitch suture achieved better results in terms of animal welfare and scaffold integration; thus, it is to be preferred to continuous suture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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13 pages, 3380 KiB  
Article
Telmisartan Loaded Nanofibers Enhance Re-Endothelialization and Inhibit Neointimal Hyperplasia
by Chen-Hung Lee, Kuo-Sheng Liu, Julien George Roth, Kuo-Chun Hung, Yen-Wei Liu, Shin-Huei Wang, Chi-Ching Kuo and Shih-Jung Liu
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(11), 1756; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics13111756 - 21 Oct 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1918
Abstract
Stent implantation impairs local endothelial function and may be associated with subsequent adverse cardiovascular events. Telmisartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker that has unique peroxisome proliferator-activated-receptor-gamma-mediated effects on cardiovascular disease, has been shown to enhance endothelial function and limit neointimal hyperplasia. This study [...] Read more.
Stent implantation impairs local endothelial function and may be associated with subsequent adverse cardiovascular events. Telmisartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker that has unique peroxisome proliferator-activated-receptor-gamma-mediated effects on cardiovascular disease, has been shown to enhance endothelial function and limit neointimal hyperplasia. This study utilized hybrid biodegradable/stent nanofibers to facilitate sustained and local delivery of telmisartan to injured arterial vessels. Telmisartan and poly(d,l)-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) (75:25) were dissolved in hexafluoroisopropyl alcohol and electrospun into biodegradable nanofibrous tubes which were coated onto metal stents. By releasing 20% of the loaded telmisartan in 30 days, these hybrid biodegradable/stent telmisartan-loaded nanofibers increased the migration of endothelial progenitor cells in vitro, promoted endothelialization, and reduced intimal hyperplasia. As such, this work provides insights into the use of PLGA nanofibers for treating patients with an increased risk of stent restenosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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19 pages, 4208 KiB  
Article
Fabrication and Characterization of Fast-Dissolving Films Containing Escitalopram/Quetiapine for the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
by Manal E. Alkahtani, Alhassan H. Aodah, Omar A. Abu Asab, Abdul W. Basit, Mine Orlu and Essam A. Tawfik
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(6), 891; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics13060891 - 16 Jun 2021
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4401
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MMD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Approximately one-third of patients with MDD fail to achieve response or remission leading to treatment-resistant depression (TRD). One of the psychopharmacological strategies to overcome TRD is using a combination of an antipsychotic [...] Read more.
Major depressive disorder (MMD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Approximately one-third of patients with MDD fail to achieve response or remission leading to treatment-resistant depression (TRD). One of the psychopharmacological strategies to overcome TRD is using a combination of an antipsychotic as an augmenting agent with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Among which, an atypical antipsychotic, quetiapine (QUE), and an SSRI, escitalopram (ESC), were formulated as a fixed-dose combination as a fast-dissolving film by coaxial electrospinning. The resultant fiber’s morphology was studied. SEM images showed that the drug-loaded fibers were smooth, un-beaded, and non-porous with a fiber diameter of 0.9 ± 0.1 µm, while the TEM images illustrated the distinctive layers of the core and shell, confirming the successful preparation of these fibers. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies confirmed that both drugs were amorphously distributed within the drug-loaded fibers. The drug-loaded fibers exhibited a disintegration time of 2 s, which accelerated the release of both drugs (50% after 5 min) making it an attractive formulation for oral mucosal delivery. The ex vivo permeability study demonstrated that QUE was permeated through the buccal membrane, but not ESC that might be hindered by the buccal epithelium and the intercellular lipids. Overall, the developed coaxial fibers could be a potential buccal dosage form that could be attributed to higher acceptability and adherence among vulnerable patients, particularly mentally ill patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

20 pages, 1123 KiB  
Review
Advances in Electrospun Nerve Guidance Conduits for Engineering Neural Regeneration
by Sanaz Behtaj, Jenny A. K. Ekberg and James A. St John
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 219; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020219 - 18 Jan 2022
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3754
Abstract
Injuries to the peripheral nervous system result in devastating consequences with loss of motor and sensory function and lifelong impairments. Current treatments have largely relied on surgical procedures, including nerve autografts to repair damaged nerves. Despite improvements to the surgical procedures over the [...] Read more.
Injuries to the peripheral nervous system result in devastating consequences with loss of motor and sensory function and lifelong impairments. Current treatments have largely relied on surgical procedures, including nerve autografts to repair damaged nerves. Despite improvements to the surgical procedures over the years, the clinical success of nerve autografts is limited by fundamental issues, such as low functionality and mismatching between the damaged and donor nerves. While peripheral nerves can regenerate to some extent, the resultant outcomes are often disappointing, particularly for serious injuries, and the ongoing loss of function due to poor nerve regeneration is a serious public health problem worldwide. Thus, a successful therapeutic modality to bring functional recovery is urgently needed. With advances in three-dimensional cell culturing, nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) have emerged as a promising strategy for improving functional outcomes. Therefore, they offer a potential therapeutic alternative to nerve autografts. NGCs are tubular biostructures to bridge nerve injury sites via orienting axonal growth in an organized fashion as well as supplying a supportively appropriate microenvironment. Comprehensive NGC creation requires fundamental considerations of various aspects, including structure design, extracellular matrix components and cell composition. With these considerations, the production of an NGC that mimics the endogenous extracellular matrix structure can enhance neuron–NGC interactions and thereby promote regeneration and restoration of function in the target area. The use of electrospun fibrous substrates has a high potential to replicate the native extracellular matrix structure. With recent advances in electrospinning, it is now possible to generate numerous different biomimetic features within the NGCs. This review explores the use of electrospinning for the regeneration of the nervous system and discusses the main requirements, challenges and advances in developing and applying the electrospun NGC in the clinical practice of nerve injuries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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31 pages, 2178 KiB  
Review
Tunable Spun Fiber Constructs in Biomedicine: Influence of Processing Parameters in the Fibers’ Architecture
by Catarina S. Miranda, Ana Francisca G. Silva, Sílvia M. M. A. Pereira-Lima, Susana P. G. Costa, Natália C. Homem and Helena P. Felgueiras
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(1), 164; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics14010164 - 11 Jan 2022
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3091
Abstract
Electrospinning and wet-spinning have been recognized as two of the most efficient and promising techniques for producing polymeric fibrous constructs for a wide range of applications, including optics, electronics, food industry and biomedical applications. They have gained considerable attention in the past few [...] Read more.
Electrospinning and wet-spinning have been recognized as two of the most efficient and promising techniques for producing polymeric fibrous constructs for a wide range of applications, including optics, electronics, food industry and biomedical applications. They have gained considerable attention in the past few decades because of their unique features and tunable architectures that can mimic desirable biological features, responding more effectively to local demands. In this review, various fiber architectures and configurations, varying from monolayer and core-shell fibers to tri-axial, porous, multilayer, side-by-side and helical fibers, are discussed, highlighting the influence of processing parameters in the final constructs. Additionally, the envisaged biomedical purposes for the examined fiber architectures, mainly focused on drug delivery and tissue engineering applications, are explored at great length. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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51 pages, 6221 KiB  
Review
Osteochondral Tissue Engineering: The Potential of Electrospinning and Additive Manufacturing
by Andreia M. Gonçalves, Anabela Moreira, Achim Weber, Gareth R. Williams and Pedro F. Costa
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(7), 983; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/pharmaceutics13070983 - 29 Jun 2021
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5730
Abstract
The socioeconomic impact of osteochondral (OC) damage has been increasing steadily over time in the global population, and the promise of tissue engineering in generating biomimetic tissues replicating the physiological OC environment and architecture has been falling short of its projected potential. The [...] Read more.
The socioeconomic impact of osteochondral (OC) damage has been increasing steadily over time in the global population, and the promise of tissue engineering in generating biomimetic tissues replicating the physiological OC environment and architecture has been falling short of its projected potential. The most recent advances in OC tissue engineering are summarised in this work, with a focus on electrospun and 3D printed biomaterials combined with stem cells and biochemical stimuli, to identify what is causing this pitfall between the bench and the patients’ bedside. Even though significant progress has been achieved in electrospinning, 3D-(bio)printing, and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technologies, it is still challenging to artificially emulate the OC interface and achieve complete regeneration of bone and cartilage tissues. Their intricate architecture and the need for tight spatiotemporal control of cellular and biochemical cues hinder the attainment of long-term functional integration of tissue-engineered constructs. Moreover, this complexity and the high variability in experimental conditions used in different studies undermine the scalability and reproducibility of prospective regenerative medicine solutions. It is clear that further development of standardised, integrative, and economically viable methods regarding scaffold production, cell selection, and additional biochemical and biomechanical stimulation is likely to be the key to accelerate the clinical translation and fill the gap in OC treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospun Materials for Biomedical Applications)
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