Nanofiber Scaffolds Research Articles

Decellularized extracellular matrix-decorated 3D nanofiber scaffolds enhance cellular responses and tissue regeneration

The use of decellularized extracellular matrix products in tissue regeneration is quite alluring yet practically challenging due to the limitations of its availability, harsh processing techniques, and host rejection. Scaffolds obtained by either incorporating extracellular matrix (ECM) material or coating the surface can resolve these challenges to some extent. However, these scaffolds lack the complex 3D network formed by proteins and growth factors observed in natural ECM. This study introduces an approach utilizing 3D nanofiber scaffolds decorated with dECM to enhance cellular responses and promote tissue regeneration. Notably, the dECM can be customized according to specific cellular requirements, offering a tailored environment for enhanced therapeutic outcomes. Two types of 3D expanded scaffolds, namely radially aligned scaffolds (RAS) and laterally expanded scaffolds (LES) fabricated by the gas-foaming expansion were utilized. To demonstrate the proof-of-concept, human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) seeded on these scaffolds for up to 8 weeks, resulted in uniform and highly aligned cells which deposited ECM on the scaffolds. These cellular components were then removed from the scaffolds through decellularization (e.g., SDS treatment and freeze-thaw cycles). The dECM-decorated 3D expanded nanofiber scaffolds can direct and support cell alignment and proliferation along the underlying fibers upon recellularization. An in vitro inflammation assay indicates that dECM-decorated LES induces a lower immune response than dECM-decorated RAS. Further, subcutaneous implantation of dECM-decorated RAS and LES shows higher cell infiltration and angiogenesis within 7 and 14 days than RAS and LES without dECM decoration. Taken together, dECM-decorated 3D expanded nanofiber scaffolds hold great potential in tissue regeneration and tissue modeling. Statement of significanceDecellularized ECM scaffolds have attained widespread attention in biomedical applications due to their intricate 3D framework of proteins and growth factors. Mimicking such a complicated architecture is a clinical challenge. In this study, we developed natural ECM-decorated 3D electrospun nanofiber scaffolds with controlled alignments to mimic human tissue. Fibroblasts were cultured on these scaffolds for 8 weeks to deposit natural ECM and decellularized by either freeze-thawing or detergent to obtain decellularized ECM scaffolds. These scaffolds were tested in both in-vitro and in-vivo conditions. They displayed higher cellular attributes with lower immune response making them a good grafting tool in tissue regeneration.

Corrigendum: Electrospun polycaprolactone/silk fibroin nanofiber scaffold with aligned fiber orientation for articular chondrocyte regeneration

Corrigendum: Electrospun polycaprolactone/silk fibroin nanofiber scaffold with aligned fiber orientation for articular chondrocyte regeneration

Comparative Analysis of Electrospun Silk Fibroin/Chitosan Sandwich-Structured Scaffolds for Osteo Regeneration: Evaluating Mechanical Properties, Biological Performance, and Drug Release.

An intensive idea of bone tissue engineering is to design regenerative nanofibrous scaffolds that could afford a natural extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment with the ability to induce cell proliferation, biodegradation, sustained drug release, and bioactivity. Even the mechanical properties and orientation of the nanofibers may enhance the performance of the scaffolds. To address this issue, we designed novel sandwich-like hybrid silk fibroin (SF)/silica/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers scaffolds. The developed scaffold was further characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elemental mapping, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), and water/blood contact angle measurements. Owing to the interfacial interaction between the layers of organic (chitosan/silk fibroin) and inorganic (silica) in the nanofibrous scaffold, a biocompatibility study has been made on an osteoblast-like (MG63) cell line, which has significant statistical differences; hemocompatibility and the mechanical profile were evaluated in detail to understand the suitability as a biomaterial. To endow the scaffold biodegradation rate, antibacterial activity, porosity profile, and cephalexin monohydrate (CEM), a drug-loading/drug release study was also performed for all of the nanofibers. This strategy explored superior mechanical strength with higher biomineralization on SF/silica/PVA nanofibers. Eventually, the proposed article compared the observation of monolayered scaffolds with designed sandwich-structured scaffolds for the enhancement of bone regeneration.

Promoting Human Intestinal Organoid Formation and Stimulation Using Piezoelectric Nanofiber Matrices.

Human organoid model systems have changed the landscape of developmental biology and basic science. They serve as a great tool for human specific interrogation. In order to advance our organoid technology, we aimed to test the compatibility of a piezoelectric material with organoid generation, because it will create a new platform with the potential for sensing and actuating organoids in physiologically relevant ways. We differentiated human pluripotent stem cells into spheroids following the traditional human intestinal organoid (HIO) protocol atop a piezoelectric nanofiber scaffold. We observed that exposure to the biocompatible piezoelectric nanofibers promoted spheroid morphology three days sooner than with the conventional methodology. At day 28 of culture, HIOs grown on the scaffold appeared similar. Both groups were readily transplantable and developed well-organized laminated structures. Graft sizes between groups were similar. Upon characterizing the tissue further, we found no detrimental effects of the piezoelectric nanofibers on intestinal patterning or maturation. Furthermore, to test the practical feasibility of the material, HIOs were also matured on the nanofiber scaffolds and treated with ultrasound, which lead to increased cellular proliferation which is critical for organoid development and tissue maintenance. This study establishes a proof of concept for integrating piezoelectric materials as a customizable platform for on-demand electrical stimulation of cells using remote ultrasonic waveforms in regenerative medicine.

Morphological Properties of Poly (vinyl alcohol)/Gelatin contained Indonesian Carbonated Hydroxyapatite Abalone Nanofibrous Scaffold by Electrospinning

One strategy for dealing with bone defects is replicating and reconstructing artificial bone for bone tissue engineering (BTE) application, known as the scaffold. Bone consists of an extracellular matrix (ECM) which, at the nanoscale, has a fibrous structure that can be replicated in synthetic scaffolds using an electrospinning method. This work describes the analysis of the morphological properties of Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/Gelatin contained Indonesian carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA) abalone nanoparticle scaffold by electrospun nanofiber. CHA nanoparticles were produced using a co-precipitation method, and nanofibrous PVA/Gelatin/CHA 5 wt% scaffold was fabricated by electrospinning. The synthesized CHA produced the same condition as B-type CHA, ensured by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) tests. The morphological properties of PVA/Gelatin/CHA are analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The SEM image indicated that PVA/Gelatin nanofiber tended to have a fine morphology without beads. The agglomeration of the PVA/Gelatin/CHA 5 wt% nanofiber scaffold can be neglected because it is still on the sub-micron scale (1 μm–100 nm). Moreover, adding CHA 5 wt% in the PVA/Gelatin matrix decreased the average fiber diameter. The diameter fiber results are within the fiber diameter range (100–450 nm) in native bone ECM. Therefore, PVA/Gelatin/CHA 5 wt% has the potential to serve as an alternative scaffold material for BTE application.

3D nanofiber scaffolds from 2D electrospun membranes boost cell penetration and positive host response for regenerative medicine

The ideal tissue engineering scaffold should facilitate rapid cell infiltration and provide an optimal immune microenvironment during interactions with the host. Electrospinning can produce two-dimensional (2D) membranes mimicking the extracellular matrix. However, their dense structure hinders cell penetration, and their thin form restricts scaffold utility. In this study, latticed hydrogels were three-dimensional (3D) printed onto electrospun membranes. This technique allowed for layer-by-layer assembly of the membranes into 3D scaffolds, which maintained their resilience impressively under both dry and wet conditions. We assessed the cellular and host responses of these 3D nanofiber scaffolds by comparing random membranes and mesh-like membranes with three different mesh sizes (250, 500, and 750 μm). It was found that scaffolds with a mesh size of 500 μm were superior for M2 macrophage phenotype polarization, vascularization, and matrix deposition. Furthermore, it was confirmed by subsequent experiments such as RNA sequencing that the mesh-like topology may promote polarization to the M2 phenotype by affecting the PI3K/AKT pathway. In conclusion, our work offers a novel method for transforming 2D nanofiber membranes into 3D scaffolds. This method boasts flexibility, allowing for the use of varied electrospun membranes and hydrogels in terms of structure and composition. It has vast potential in tissue repair and regeneration.

Optimization and investigation of Physical, chemical, and biological properties of nanofibers produced from (poly glycerol Sebacate-co-caprolactone)/gelatin/peptide and scaffold’s cellular behavior

Recently, peptide and Poly(Glycerol Sebacat) PGS-based materials have garnered significant attention in tissue engineering. In this study, we synthesized two novel nanofibrous webs, namely Poly (glycerol sebacate)/gelatin/peptide (PGS/Gel/PT) and Poly (glycerol sebacate co caprolactone)/gelatin/peptide (P(GScoCL)/Gel/PT), utilizing the electrospinning technique with acetic acid as a cost-effective and eco-friendly solvent. To optimize the diameter of the electrospun nanofibrous samples, we employed response surface methodology and artificial neural network, investigating the impact of various electrospinning parameters. Nanofibrous webs with a diameter of 232 nm under the optimized conditions. Nanofibers were characterized using FTIR, DSC, contact angle measurement, and mechanical testing. The biological properties including biodegradability, cell adhesion, MTT assay, and antibacterial efficacy were performed. Nanofibrous samples antibacterial activity, displaying 99% effectiveness against both Gram-positive and Gramnegative bacteria. Moreover, in-vitro studies on the cellular proliferation of human Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hMSCs) nanofiber scaffold demonstrated normal cell morphology and significantly enhanced cell growth after 4 days.

Assessing the impact of extracellular matrix fiber orientation on breast cancer cellular metabolism

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic and complex microenvironment that modulates cell behavior and cell fate. Changes in ECM composition and architecture have been correlated with development, differentiation, and disease progression in various pathologies, including breast cancer [1]. Studies have shown that aligned fibers drive a pro-metastatic microenvironment, promoting the transformation of mammary epithelial cells into invasive ductal carcinoma via the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) [2]. The impact of ECM orientation on breast cancer metabolism, however, is largely unknown. Here, we employ two non-invasive imaging techniques, fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and intensity-based multiphoton microscopy, to assess the metabolic states of cancer cells cultured on ECM-mimicking nanofibers in a random and aligned orientation. By tracking the changes in the intrinsic fluorescence of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide, as well as expression levels of metastatic markers, we reveal how ECM fiber orientation alters cancer metabolism and EMT progression. Our study indicates that aligned cellular microenvironments play a key role in promoting metastatic phenotypes of breast cancer as evidenced by a more glycolytic metabolic signature on nanofiber scaffolds of aligned orientation compared to scaffolds of random orientation. This finding is particularly relevant for subsets of breast cancer marked by high levels of collagen remodeling (e.g. pregnancy associated breast cancer), and may serve as a platform for predicting clinical outcomes within these subsets [3–6].

Multifunctional polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds enriched with azilsartan medoxomil for enhanced wound healing.

A prolonged and compromised wound healing process poses a significant clinical challenge, necessitating innovative solutions. This research investigates the potential application of nanotechnology-based formulations, specifically nanofiber (NF) scaffolds, in addressing this issue. The study focuses on the development and characterization of multifunctional nanofibrous scaffolds (AZL-CS/PVA-NF) composed of azilsartan medoxomil (AZL) enriched chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (CS/PVA) through electrospinning. The scaffolds underwent comprehensive characterization both in vitro and in vivo. The mean diameter and tensile strength of AZL-CS/PVA-NF were determined to be 240.42 ± 3.55nm and 18.05 ± 1.18MPa, respectively. A notable drug release rate of 93.86 ± 2.04%, was observed from AZL-CS/PVA-NF over 48h at pH 7.4. Moreover, AZL-CS/PVA-NF exhibited potent antimicrobial efficacy for Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The expression levels of Akt and CD31 were significantly elevated, while Stat3 showed a decrease, indicating a heightened tissue regeneration rate with AZL-CS/PVA-NF compared to other treatment groups. In vivo ELISA findings revealed reduced inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) within treated skin tissue, implying a beneficial effect on injury repair. The comprehensive findings of the present endeavour underscore the superior wound healing activity of the developed AZL-CS/PVA-NF scaffolds in a Wistar rat full-thickness excision wound model. This indicates their potential as novel carriers for drugs and dressings in the field of wound care.

Application and Development of Electrospun Nanofiber Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering.

Nanofiber scaffolds have gained significant attention in the field of bone tissue engineering. Electrospinning, a straightforward and efficient technique for producing nanofibers, has been extensively researched. When used in bone tissue engineering scaffolds, electrospun nanofibers with suitable surface properties promote new bone tissue growth and enhance cell adhesion. Recent advancements in electrospinning technology have provided innovative approaches for scaffold fabrication in bone tissue engineering. This review comprehensively examines the utilization of electrospun nanofibers in bone tissue engineering scaffolds and evaluates the relevant literature. The review begins by presenting the fundamental principles and methodologies of electrospinning. It then discusses various materials used in the production of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds for bone tissue engineering, including natural and synthetic polymers, as well as certain inorganic materials. The challenges associated with these materials are also described. The review focuses on novel electrospinning techniques for scaffold construction in bone tissue engineering, such as multilayer nanofibers, multifluid electrospinning, and the integration of electrospinning with other methods. Recent advancements in electrospinning technology have enabled the fabrication of precisely aligned nanofiber scaffolds with nanoscale architectures. These innovative methods also facilitate the fabrication of biomimetic structures, wherein bioactive substances can be incorporated and released in a controlled manner for drug delivery purposes. Moreover, they address issues encountered with traditional electrospun nanofibers, such as mechanical characteristics and biocompatibility. Consequently, the development and implementation of novel electrospinning technologies have revolutionized scaffold fabrication for bone tissue engineering.

Enhancing surface morphology, mechanical, and wettability properties of PVA/chitosan/HAp nanofiber scaffold through dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment has been widely used for surface functionalization, allowing for precise modification of surface chemistry and morphology. This study investigates the efficacy of DBD plasma treatment in enhancing the surface morphology and wettability of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), chitosan, and hydroxyapatite (HAp), with potential applications in bone tissue engineering. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed significant alterations in surface morphology after treatment, including a reduction in average fiber diameter and the presence of uneven, damaged, and even broken fibers. Interestingly, the ultimate strength of the nanofibers increased from 1.13 ± 0.05 MPa to 6.99 ± 0.07 MPa despite the decrease in diameter. Contact angle measurements confirmed a remarkable improvement in wettability, with the contact angle decreasing from 39.46° to 7.45° following increasing treatment time. This enhanced wettability suggests improved cell adhesion, potentially leading to more effective bone tissue regeneration.

Multi-variate multi-objective optimization of production conditions for electro-spun skin scaffold using RSM and investigation of gamma irradiation effects on the properties of the optimized sample

Developing electro-spun scaffolds with ideal mechanical properties for skin purposes can profit from using the Response Surface Methodology technique to define and optimize the outcome quality and required sterilization for use in vivo. This study investigated the effects of four main independent electrospinning variables for polycaprolactone nanofibers scaffold using multi-variable and multi-objective optimization. It was done to determine significant parameters on responses and find optimal conditions to reach the preferred properties. Young's modulus, elongation-at-break, and tensile strength were the responses. After obtaining appropriate models, the impact share of variables on the responses was determined using Sobol sensitivity analysis. The results showed that flow rate is the most significant parameter of elastic modulus and tensile strength responses, with 76.45 % and 41.27 % impact shares, respectively. The polymer concentration is the following significant parameter on elongation at break, tensile strength and, Young's modulus responses with 64.35 %, 39.485 and, 14.28 % impact share, respectively. Based on the optimized results, a skin scaffold with desired mechanical properties was achieved (under solution concentration of 10 % w/v, flow rate of 2 mL/h, nuzzle-collector distance of 15 cm, and applied voltage of 20 kV). Then it was sterilized with gamma radiation of various doses (25, 40, and 55 kGy) to use in vivo. The SEM analysis indicated no significant change in fibrous morphology due to gamma irradiation at any dosage. FTIR analysis demonstrated the breakup of ester bonds due to gamma irradiation. For samples irradiated by 25 kGy, the crystallinity percentage decreased and chains crosslinking without losing the mechanical stability was dominant. The studies demonstrated that 25 kGy of gamma irradiation could improve the mechanical properties of the optimized PCL skin scaffold, which is very promising for wound healing.

Orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffolds promote rapid soft tissue regeneration by enhancing bidirectional cell migration

Repairing large-area soft tissue defects caused by traumas is a major surgical challenge. Developing multifunctional scaffolds with suitable scalability and favorable cellular response is crucial for soft tissue regeneration. In this study, we developed an orthogonally woven three-dimensional (3D) nanofiber scaffold combining electrospinning, weaving, and modified gas-foaming technology. The developed orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold had a modular design and controlled fiber alignment. In vitro, the orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold exhibited adjustable mechanical properties, good cell compatibility, and easy drug loading. In vivo, for one thing, the implantation of an orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold in a full abdominal wall defect model demonstrated that extensive granulation tissue formation with enough mechanical strength could promote recovery of abdominal wall defects while reducing intestinal adhesion. Another result of diabetic wound repair experiments suggested that orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffolds had a higher wound healing ratio, granulation tissue formation, collagen deposition, and re-epithelialization. Taken together, this novel orthogonally woven 3D nanofiber scaffold may provide a promising and effective approach for optimal soft tissue regeneration.

Polyurethane nanofiber scaffolds for future bone tissue applications: Using β‐cyclodextrin and zinc oxide nanoparticles to improve the properties

AbstractNumerous strategies exist to design a suitable bone graft made from polyurethane (PU) nanofibers. However, using PU nanofibers is impractical owing to their hydrophobicity. This work transforms the hydrophobicity of PU nanofibers using β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs). Transmission and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated the size of ~100 to 200 nm for ZnO NPs, and these NPs could finely harmonize inside nanofibers. The phenolphthalein absorbance test confirmed the inclusion of ZnO and β‐CD. Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, and photoelectron spectroscopy showed that synthesized composites have intermolecular hydrogen interactions between the PU, β‐CD, and ZnO NPs. These embellishments improved the hydrophilicity from a contact angle of 60.2 ± 0.2° to 0°. The tensile strength of modified fibers increased from 2.16 ± 0.14 to 6.65 ± 6.0 MPa. The incorporation of ZnO NPs caused the mineralization of the nanofibers and the maximum number of hydroxyapatite NPs in the composite, which had the highest concentration of ZnO NPs. These nanofiber mats boosted the proliferation of Human Embryonic Kidney 293 T cells till 6 days of culture for the nanofiber with 5% β‐CD and 75 mg ZnO NPs combination. Cell fixation studies indicated the successful attachment of cells onto nanofibers. Consequently, our multifunctional scaffolds could be osteoproductive and osteoinductive biomaterials for future bone tissue engineering.

Citrus flavonoids-loaded chitosan derivatives-route nanofilm as drug delivery systems for cutaneous wound healing

This study focuses on creating new forms of biomimetic nanofiber composites by combining copolymerizing and electrospinning approaches in the field of nanomedicine. The process involved utilizing the melt polymerization of proline (Pr) and hydroxyl proline (Hyp) to synthesize polymers based on Pr (PPE) and Hyp (PHPE). These polymers were then used in a grafting copolymerization process with chitosan (CS) to produce PHPC (1560 ± 81.08 KDa). A novel electrospun nanofiber scaffold was then produced using PHPC and/or CS, hyaluronic acid, polyvinyl alcohol, and naringenin (NR) as a loading drug. Finally, Mouse Dermal Fibroblast (MDF) cells were introduced to the wound dressing and assessed their therapeutic potential for wound healing in rats. The scaffolds were characterized by FTIR, NMR, DSC, and SEM analysis, which confirmed the amino acid grafting, loading drug, and porous and nanofibrous structures (>225 nm). The results showed that the PHPC-based scaffolds were more effective for swelling/absorption of wound secretions, had more elasticity/elongation, faster drug release, more MDF-cytocompatibility, and antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant S. aureus compared to CS-based scaffolds. The in vivo studies showed that NR in combination with MDF can accelerate cell migration/proliferation, and remodeling phases of wound healing in both PHPC/CS-based scaffolds. Moreover, PHPC-based scaffolds promote collagen content, and better wound contraction, epithelialization, and neovascularization than CS-based, showing potential as wound-dressing.

Electrospun Nanofiber Scaffold for Skin Tissue Engineering: A Review.

Skin tissue engineering (STE) is widely regarded as an effective approach for skin regeneration. Several synthetic biomaterials utilized for STE have demonstrated favorable fibrillar characteristics, facilitating the regeneration of skin tissue at the site of injury, yet they have exhibited a lack of in situ degradation. Various types of skin regenerative materials, such as hydrogels, nanofiber scaffolds, and 3D-printing composite scaffolds, have recently emerged for use in STE. Electrospun nanofiber scaffolds possess distinct advantages, such as their wide availability, similarity to natural structures, and notable tissue regenerative capabilities, which have garnered the attention of researchers. Hence, electrospun nanofiber scaffolds may serve as innovative biological materials possessing the necessary characteristics and potential for use in tissue engineering. Recent research has demonstrated the potential of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds to facilitate regeneration of skin tissues. Nevertheless, there is a need to enhance the rapid degradation and limited mechanical properties of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds in order to strengthen their effectiveness in soft tissue engineering applications in clinical settings. This Review centers on advanced research into electrospun nanofiber scaffolds, encompassing preparation methods, materials, fundamental research, and preclinical applications in the field of science, technology, and engineering. The existing challenges and prospects of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds in STE are also addressed.

Enhancing tendon-bone integration and healing with advanced multi-layer nanofiber-reinforced 3D scaffolds for acellular tendon complexes

Advancements in tissue engineering are crucial for successfully healing tendon-bone connections, especially in situations like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) restoration. This study presents a new and innovative three-dimensional scaffold, reinforced with nanofibers, that is specifically intended for acellular tendon complexes. The scaffold consists of a distinct layered arrangement comprising an acellular tendon core, a middle layer of polyurethane/type I collagen (PU/Col I) yarn, and an outside layer of poly (L-lactic acid)/bioactive glass (PLLA/BG) nanofiber membrane. Every layer is designed to fulfill specific yet harmonious purposes. The acellular tendon core is a solid structural base and a favorable environment for tendon cell functions, resulting in considerable tensile strength. The central PU/Col I yarn layer is vital in promoting the tendinogenic differentiation of stem cells derived from tendons and increasing the expression of critical tendinogenic factors. The external PLLA/BG nanofiber membrane fosters the process of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells differentiating into bone cells and enhances the expression of markers associated with bone formation. Our scaffold's biocompatibility and multi-functional design were confirmed through extensive in vivo evaluations, such as histological staining and biomechanical analyses. These assessments combined showed notable enhancements in ACL repair and healing. This study emphasizes the promise of multi-layered nanofiber scaffolds in orthopedic tissue engineering and also introduces new possibilities for the creation of improved materials for regenerating the tendon-bone interface.

Biological activities of fig latex -loaded cellulose acetate/poly(ethylene oxide) nanofiber for potential therapeutics: Anticancer and antioxidant material

Cancer is a fatal disease, and unfortunately, the anticancer drugs harm normal cells. Plant's extracts are the golden key to solving this issue. In this research, fig latex - from Ficus carica- was encapsulated using cellulose acetate (CA) and poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) polymers via electrospinning method (Fig@CA/PEO). Fig@CA/PEO nanofiber scaffold was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The average fiber diameter was decreased with an increase in latex concentration from 715 nm to 583 nm. FT-IR spectroscopy indicated the presence of fig latex in Fig@CA/PEO nanofibers. Compared to 5-fluorouracil, Fig@CA/PEO nanofiber scaffold considered safe towards normal cells (WI-38). Moreover, the nanofiber scaffold was efficient against colon cancer cells (Caco) and liver cancer cells (HepG2) as it demonstrated IC50 values for cells by 23.97 μg/mL and 23.96 μg/mL, respectively. Besides, the nanofiber scaffold revealed mechanistic variations in apoptotic oncogenes; described by the upregulation of BCL2 and P21, combined by downregulation of p53 and TNF. Moreover, the nanofiber scaffold showed antioxidant activity counting 33.4, 36 and 41 % of DPPH scavenging as the fig latex concentration increased. The results demonstrate that the Fig@CA/PEO nanofiber scaffold is a promising substitute to traditional chemotherapy.

Scalable NH4V4O10 clusters as functional network nodes on toughened porous carbon nanofibers for hybrid capacitive deionization

Layered vanadium-based compound (e.g., NH4V4O10) is acknowledged as an outstanding candidate for intercalation pseudocapacitance electrode of capacitive deionization (CDI) cells. However, the directed production of high-efficiency NH4V4O10-based self-supporting CDI electrodes and their structure–activity connection warrant more in-depth study. Herein, the delicate design and controllable construction of NH4V4O10 clusters on the freestanding porous carbon nanofiber (PCNF) scaffolds (the composite PCNFs/NH4V4O10 is defined as CNVO) using a new organic reducing agent of citric acid is proposed, where NH4V4O10 clusters as functional network nodes can improve the mechanical toughness, electrochemical capacitive performance, and desalination capability of the CNVO hybrid. The Na+ adsorption mechanism on CNVO is confirmed by ex-situ experimental characterizations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The hybrid CDI (HCDI) cell composed of the optimized CNVO cathode and PCNFs anode shows a desirable desalination capacity (45.07 mg g−1), a superior salt removal rate (16.4 mg g−1 min−1), an excellent energy utilization, and an acceptable cyclic regeneration ability in 500 mg L-1 NaCl solution. More importantly, the assembled HCDI system is promising for the desalination of reclaimed water from the printing and dyeing enterprise. This work highlights a scalable strategy that is experimentally and theoretically feasible to design and fabricate high-efficiency CDI electrodes.

Bioinspired core-shell nanofiber drug-delivery system modulates osteogenic and osteoclast activity for bone tissue regeneration

Osteogenic-osteoclast coupling processes play a crucial role in bone regeneration. Recently, strategies that focus on multi-functionalized implant surfaces to enhance the healing of bone defects through the synergistic regulation of osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis is still a challenging task in the field of bone tissue engineering. The aim of this study was to create a dual-drug release-based core-shell nanofibers with the intent of achieving a time-controlled release to facilitate bone regeneration. We fabricated core-shell P/PCL nanofibers using coaxial electrospinning, where alendronate (ALN) was incorporated into the core layer and hydroxyapatite (HA) into shell. The surface of the nanofiber construct was further modified with mussel-derived polydopamine (PDA) to induce hydrophilicity and enhance cell interactions. Surface characterizations confirmed the successful synthesis of PDA@PHA/PCL-ALN nanofibers endowed with excellent mechanical strength (20.02 ± 0.13 MPa) and hydrophilicity (22.56°), as well as the sustained sequential release of ALN and Ca ions. In vitro experiments demonstrated that PDA-functionalized core-shell PHA/PCL-ALN scaffolds possessed excellent cytocompatibility, enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity and osteogenesis-related genes. In addition to osteogenesis, the engineered scaffolds also significantly reduced osteoclastogenesis, such as tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity and osteoclastogenesis-related gene expression. After 12-week of implantation, it was observed that PDA@PHA/PCL-ALN nanofiber scaffolds, in a rat cranial defect model, significantly promoted bone repair and regeneration. Microcomputed tomography, histological examination, and immunohistochemical analysis collectively demonstrated that the PDA-functionalized core-shell PHA/PCL-ALN scaffolds exhibited exceptional osteogenesis-inducing and osteoclastogenesis-inhibiting effects. Finally, it may be concluded from our results that the bio-inspired surface-functionalized multifunctional, biomimetic and controlled release core-shell nanofiber provides a promising strategy to facilitate bone healing.