In-vitro evaluation of dexpanthenol-loaded nanofiber mats for wound healing

Purpose: To prepare a novel dexpanthenol (DEX)-loaded nanofiber mats for wound healing. Methods: A novel bioactive wound dressing formulation with dexpanthenol was developed by electrospinning method. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid), poly (ethylene oxide) and poly (caprolactone) were used as polymers. Morphological features, swelling properties, in-vitro release behavior, and cell viability properties of the formulations were evaluated. Results: Morphological examination of mats confirmed successful formation of the fibers. Swelling of nanofiber mats results was 34.44 ± 1.05, 18.59 ± 2.11, 86.06 ± 3.25 and 44.62 ± 1.75 % for polycaprolactone (PCL), PCL + DEX, poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and PLGA + DEX, respectively, and occurred in a controlled manner. PLGA + DEX formulation has advantage over PCL + DEX and poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) + DEX due to controlled in-vitro release of DEX. The highest cell viability was afforded by PLGA+DEX formulation. Conclusion: DEX-loaded PLGA nanofiber formulation may be useful as an alternative wound dressing due its suitable mechanical and biological properties. © Pharmacotherapy Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, 300001 Nigeria. and 2018 The authors.