Electrospun Poly-lactic Acid/Chitosan Nanofibers Loaded with Paclitaxel for Coating of a Prototype Polymeric Stent

Electrospun composite fibers of poly-lactic acid (PLA), chitosan (Ch) and paclitaxel (PTX) were fabricated for surface covering of a polymeric prototype PLA stent by means of single nozzle electrospinning approach to prepare a low cytotoxicity drug-eluting stent. Different concentrations of the drug (40 %, 60 %, 80 %, 100 % and 120 %) and chitosan (3 %, 5 %, 7 % and 9 %) were incorporated to reach the optimum composite fibers. The electrospun composite fibers were subjected to detailed analyses including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile test, MTT assay, cell culture and in vitro drug release. Results have confirmed a proper physical encapsulation of PTX in the polymeric matrix in which no chemical bonding was detected between the polymers and the drug. Among the fabricated composite fibers, specimens including 40 % and 60 % drug also exhibited an excellent cytotoxicity and controlled drug release. SEM images have proved the effect of paclitaxel in resisting cell adhesion and propagation on the fibers. Findings from this study suggest a novel polymer/drug coating that could be potentially applicable in surface covering of polymeric stents e.g. PLA stents.