Laser-triggered release of encapsulated molecules from polylactic-co-glycolic acid microcapsules

Abstract

The controlled release of encapsulated molecules from a microcapsule is a promising method of targeted drug delivery. Laser-triggered methods for the release of encapsulated molecules have the advantage of spatial and temporal controllability. In this study, we demonstrated the release of encapsulated molecules from biodegradable polymer-based microcapsules using near-infrared femtosecond laser pulses. The polylactic-co-glycolic acid microcapsules encapsulating fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran molecules were fabricated using a dual-coaxial nozzle system. Irradiation of femtosecond laser pulses enhanced the release of the molecules from the microcapsules, which was accompanied by a decrease in the residual ratio of the microcapsules. The laser-induced modification of the surface of the shell of the microcapsules indicated the potential for sustained release as well as burst release.

Femtosecond Laser Processing of Biodegradable Polymers

“…This may be due to the different degree of change in the degradation rate depending on the laser wavelength, as described in Section 3. Ariyasu et al reported the burst release of embedded molecules triggered by femtosecond laser pulses [64]. The release of fluorescence molecules encapsulated in biodegradable microcapsules was significantly enhanced by laser irradiation.…”