Streamlined Nanodrug Delivery Systems for Localized Cancer Therapy via Electrospinning and Electrospray

Introduction

Localized drug delivery systems offer targeted therapeutic administration but remain limited by poor release efficiency and control. Hybrid nanostructures that combine fibers and nanoparticles represent a promising strategy to enhance local drug delivery. We developed a nanofibrous patch based on poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) fibres and Fluorescein sodium salt (Flu)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, using electrospinning to enable localized cancer therapy. PVDF-HFP was selected for its chemical stability and piezoelectric properties, enabling stimuli-responsive drug release and mimicking the electromechanical behavior of some native tissues.

Methods

PVDF-HFP (18% w/v) was dissolved in dimethylformamide/acetone (70/30 v/v) and was electrospun at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/h, with a 12 cm needle-to-collector distance and a voltage of 15 kV. PLGA (2% w/v) was dissolved in hexafluoro-2-propanol, and Flu (10% w/w, Flu/PLGA) was added. The solution was electrosprayed onto nanoparticles at 0.008 mL/min, 12 cm needle-to-collector distance, and 15 kV. The morphology of samples was analyzed by a field emission scanning electron microscope. Average nanoparticle and fiber diameters were measured from SEM images using ImageJ (n = 50). Release studies of Flu-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (free and fiber-bound) were conducted in PBS (pH 7.4) at 37 °C for 4 h and 24 h (n = 3).

Results

Flu-loaded PLGA nanoparticles with homogeneous size (d: 0.83 ± 0.28 μm) and morphology were uniformly distributed on the surface of electrospun PVDF-HFP nanofibers with a diameter of 0.74 ± 0.14 µm. Approximately more than 50% of Flu was released from PLGA nanoparticles in 30 min, and 90% in 4 h. The amount of Flu released was decreased after 24 h when PLGA nanoparticles were located on the surface of PVDF-HFP fibers.

Conclusion

The results highlight the potential of this hybrid fiber/nanoparticle platform for controlled and localized drug delivery, particularly as implantable or stimuli-responsive systems for cancer therapy.

Acknowledgements

This study acknowledges RESPIRE (CUP 153C24002070006) project, Seal of Excellence, MUR, PNRR, Mission 4 - Component 2, Investment 1.2