Bacterial Photoinactivation Using PLGA Electrospun Scaffolds

Abstract

The use of ultraviolet (UV) and blue irradiation to sterilize surfaces is well established, but commercial applications would be enhanced if the light source is replaced with ambient light. In this paper, it is shown that nanofibers can be explored as an alternative methodology to UV and blue irradiation for bacterial inactivation. It is demonstrated that this is indeed possible using spun nanofibers of poly­[lactic-co-(glycolic acid)] (PLGA). This work shows that PLGA spun scaffolds can promote photoinactivation of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria with ambient light or with laser irradiation at 630 nm. With the optimized scaffold composition of PLGA85:15 nanofibers, the minimum intensity required to kill the bacteria is much lower than in antimicrobial blue light applications. The enhanced effect introduced by PLGA scaffolds is due to their nanofiber structures since PLGA spun nanofibers were able to inactivate both S. aureus and E. coli bacteria, but cast films had no effect. These findings pave the way for an entirely different method to sterilize surfaces, which is less costly and environmentally friendly than current procedures. In addition, the scaffolds could also be used in cancer treatment with fewer side effects since photosensitizers are not required.

Recent advances in engineered polymeric materials for efficient photodynamic inactivation of bacterial pathogens

“…Electrospinning is a facile and cost-effective technique to efficiently produce PSs combined fibrous micro/nano architectures with a maximum production rate. Compared with other spinning techniques, the PSs-loaded fibrous scaffolds fabricated by electrospinning are smaller with improved photobactericidal properties [ 127 ]. Further, the immobilization of PSs on electrospun scaffolds via covalent attachment is more robust than non-covalent interactions and endows the fibrous surfaces with increased 1 O 2 diffusion.…”

Bee Sting-Inspired Inflammation-Responsive Microneedles for Periodontal Disease Treatment

“…In summary, we have presented a bee-inspired Met-loaded separable MN that could ROS-responsively release drugs into the gingival sulcus to treat periodontists. To ensure proper oral function, drug-laden microcarriers like nanoplatform [ 36 , 37 ], spun scaffolds [ 38 ], injectable hydrogel [ 39 ], microspheres [ 40 ], and MNs [ 1 ] are initially showing promise in the treatment of periodontal diseases. Considering the continuous flow of saliva, most nanoparticles or microspheres cannot achieve long retention and controllable drug release, requiring repeated dosing.…”

Effects of Puerarin Combined with PLGA/TCP/Puerarin on Osteocalcin and Sialoprotein of Mandibular Defects

“…e specific surface area is large, and there are numerous nanopores that are beneficial to cell proliferation and formation of new tissues. It has significant gene regulation effects on calcifying elements such as osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase [16]. It has a compound three-dimensional structure with a specific proportion of inorganic active elements and a porosity of over 90%, which enables it to adhere to and accommodate osteoblasts and chondrocytes and microvascular and regulate osteoblasts, thereby releasing bone growth factors and inorganic elements in a specific proportion.…”