Blow-Spun Nanofibers Embedded with Clay Nanotubes for Biomedical Applications

Nanofiber scaffolds have been studied extensively for a variety of biomedical applications. Traditional nanofiber production methods have relied heavily on electrically conductive targets, as seen with electrospinning. The solution blow-spin technique is a new, more rapid and versatile nanofiber production method that allows for fibers to be sprayed onto any surface geometry. Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are naturally formed alumina silicate clay tubes, which offer tremendous potential as a multifunctional and cytocompatible nanomaterial. This study showed cellular interactions and responses to blow-spun nanofibers loaded with halloysite nanotubes. Additionally, the study showed antibacterial effects of antibiotic loaded versions. Control poly (lactic-co-glycolide) (PLG) fibers and PLG fibers loaded with HNTs were monitored through scanning and transmission electron microscopy. NucBlue®, Picrosirius Red, Von Kossa, and Alcian Blue assays were used to monitor cell attachment, penetration, and growth on the scaffolds during the course of one week. Drug-loaded versions were tested against Escherichia coli in nutrient broth and agar disc diffusion assays. In the first-ever recorded account, electron micrographs showed that solution blow spinning could encapsulate HNTs within nanofibers networks. Histological assays showed that cellular adhesion and growth was maintained on all nanofiber scaffolds, and drug-loaded versions displayed antibacterial effects. It is suggested that solution blow-spun HNT-nanofibers may have significant potential uses in three-dimensional tissue engineering, medical device nanostructured coatings, wound dressings, and modular drug delivery systems.