Introduction: Electrospun nanofibres have harvested a lot of interest due to their numerous features as drug delivery carrier [1]. Indeed, thanks to their high surface area to volume ratio, the release of the drug is becoming more effective. Furthermore, it exists different methods to introduce drug into nanofibres. In this study, we set out results obtained after the preparation of electrospun chitosan nanofibres which were soaked lately by Ciprofloxacin (CFX). In order to obtain a better control of the drug release, we soaked membranes having different thickness.
Experimental methods: Preparation of electrospun CHT nanofibres: 3,5wt% of chitosan (CHT) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) mixture (ratio 9/1) were dissolved in 90% acetic acid (AA) aqueous solution. Obtained nanofibres were heat treated at 140°C for 24h.
CFX absorption: Heat treated electrospun membranes were soaked by a CFX solution (2g/L) for different absorption time (45min, 2h, and 4h). After each time, membranes were rinsed for 20 seconds in water. Subsequently, they were dissolved into 1% of AA aqueous solution and the quantity of absorbed CFX was measured using UV-vis spectroscopy at 271nm.
In vitro CFX release: 20mg of CFX embedded nanofibres were introduced into a dynamic release system (SOTAX®) (closed circuit, 30mL/min, 37°C). (n=5)
Results and discussion: After 45 minutes, electrospun membranes absorbed the same quantity of CFX. The presence of CFX on the surface of nanofibres is manifested by the appearance of white precipitation caused by the formation of complex between chitosan and CFX.
Figure 1: CFX release A) per surface unit S (g/cm²) (S) B) Cumulative percentage
It is possible to control the drug release by varying a number of parameters. In this study, the thickness of the electrospun membranes was investigated. Figure 1.A, shows that by increasing the thickness, a higher quantity of CFX could be entrapped into the nanofibrous web and released afterward. Thus, we can enhance the bioavailability of the drug. However, the plateau of the release from the two studied membranes is obtained simultaneously for the tow studied membranes (Figure 1.B).
Conclusion: In this study, the control of the drug release was managed by the thickness of the membranes. The next step will be to introduce cyclodextrin polymer into nanofibres. We expect here, to enhance the solubility of the drug and extend its release.
This work was supported by Region Nord-Pas-de-Calais, University of Lille and Federation Cheuvreul
References:
[1] HU,X. et al. J..Controlled Release 185, 12-21,2014