Incorporation of ciprofloxacin/laponite in polycaprolactone electrospun nanofibers: drug release and antibacterial studies

Electrospun nanofibers with sustained drug release are a challenge but it can be improved by using hydrophobic polymer. Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a hydrophobic and biocompatible polymer. In this work, we have proposed a drug release mechanism by preparation of ciprofloxacin (Cip)/Laponite (LAP) complex and then incorporation in PCL nanofibers through electrospinning technique. In addition, drug incorporation was confirmed by FTIR and morphology of electrospun nanofibers was revealed by SEM. Drug loading was measured by using spectrophotometer. PCL/LAP/Cip NFs proved sustained drug release as compared to PCL NFs and PCL/Cip NFs. Furthermore, PCL/LAP/Cip NFs were used as antimicrobial agent and higher effect measured.