Advances in the Application of Electrospun Drug-Loaded Nanofibers in the Treatment of Oral Ulcers

Biomolecules. 2022 Sep 7;12(9):1254. doi: 10.3390/biom12091254.

Abstract

Oral ulcers affect oral and systemic health and have high prevalence in the population. There are significant individual differences in the etiology and extent of the disease among patients. In the treatment of oral ulcers, nanofiber films can control the drug-release rate and enable long-term local administration. Compared to other drug-delivery methods, nanofiber films avoid the disadvantages of frequent administration and certain side effects. Electrospinning is a simple and effective method for preparing nanofiber films. Currently, electrospinning technology has made significant breakthroughs in energy-saving and large-scale production. This paper summarizes the polymers that enable oral mucosal adhesion and the active pharmaceutical ingredients used for oral ulcers. Moreover, the therapeutic effects of currently available electrospun nanofiber films on oral ulcers in animal experiments and clinical trials are investigated. In addition, solvent casting and cross-linking methods can be used in conjunction with electrospinning techniques. Based on the literature, more administration systems with different polymers and loading components can be inspired. These administration systems are expected to have synergistic effects and achieve better therapeutic effects. This not only provides new possibilities for drug-loaded nanofibers but also brings new hope for the treatment of oral ulcers.

Keywords: drug delivery; electrospinning; mucoadhesive polymers; nanofiber film; oral ulcers.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Nanofibers* / therapeutic use
  • Oral Ulcer* / drug therapy
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Polymers
  • Solvents

Substances

  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Polymers
  • Solvents

Grants and funding

This investigation was financially supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai (20ZR1439000), and the Innovation Project of USST Students (SH2022225 & 2022229).