Electrospun zein/graphene oxide nanosheet composite nanofibers with controlled drug release as antibacterial wound dressing

Abstract

In this work, zein/Graphene oxide (GO) composite nanofibers were fabricated. Furthermore, tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) was incorporated in dressings by loading on GO nanosheets. The morphology, mechanical properties, and biological activity of the composites were characterized. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed that the nanofiber diameter decreased with increased GO loading. Tensile testing indicated that incorporation of GO up to 1 wt% significantly increased the mechanical properties of the zein nanofibers. Drug loaded nanofibers showed a significantly prolonged release profile compared to zein nanofibers. Additionally, cellular studies demonstrated that GO content up to 1 wt% enhanced adhesion and proliferation of cells.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Composite wound dressing
• controlled drug release
• graphene oxide nanosheet
• Zein nanofiber

Additional information

Funding

This work was financially supported [with grant number of 28771/06/10] by the Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Iran.