Metformin and silymarin loaded onto poly(caprolactone)/chitosan polymeric nanofiber based pads for diabetic wound healing

Abstract

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent genetic-metabolic diseases worldwide, affecting a significant number of individuals from diverse communities. One of its major complications is diabetic foot ulcers, resulting from several factors including peripheral vascular damage and an impaired immune system. In recent years, various approaches have been proposed for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Among the innovative strategies, the utilization of advanced drug delivery systems has gained considerable attention. Nanofibers based on biocompatible and biodegradable polymers have been extensively studied for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. Chitosan/poly(caprolactone) nanofibers have been investigated in various studies for targeted drug delivery, including in the context of diabetes. In this research, chitosan/poly(caprolactone) nanofibers loaded with metformin and silymarin were prepared and evaluated for their physicochemical properties and cellular toxicity. The nanofibers exhibited a size of less than 200 nanometers and possessed sufficient mechanical strength. The synergistic effects of metformin and silymarin encapsulated within chitosan/poly(caprolactone) nanofibers were studied for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Drug release studies demonstrated an initial burst release followed by sustained and controlled release over an extended period. Cellular toxicity results indicated the biocompatibility of the nanofibers, making them suitable candidates for animal and clinical studies. Overall, chitosan/poly(caprolactone) nanofibers exhibited desirable physicochemical characteristics, and their biocompatibility and biodegradability properties enhance their potential for clinical applications.