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