Biphasic drug release from electrospun polyblend nanofibers for optimized local cancer treatment

Abstract

The application of the biphasic release profile furnished by electrospun polyblend nanofibers for local cancer treatment was investigated. By adjusting the weight ratio of the hydrophilic polymer (poly(ethylene oxide), PEO) and hydrophobic polymer (poly(L-lactide), PLA), PEO₁₀–PLA₉₀ fibers with typical biphasic release kinetics were successfully prepared. Due to their unique release profile, PEO₁₀–PLA₉₀ fibers can quickly access the tumor site in vivo at a high drug content within 1 h and keep at a high level for longer than two weeks. In vivo antitumor and safety studies demonstrated that PEO₁₀–PLA₉₀ fibers can achieve optimized local cancer treatment efficacy and avoid undesired adverse reactions. The biphasic drug release profile provided by the polyblend electrospun technology was proven to be a new conception for local chemotherapy.