CHAPTER 14: Biocompatible Electrospun Polymer–Halloysite Nanofibers for Sustained Release

Fabrication of nanofiber-based drug delivery systems with controlled release properties is of general interest in the biomedical sciences. The micro-nano scale organization and high porosity of electrospun membranes, which is similar to the natural extracellular matrix, is favorable for adhesion and proliferation of cells and decreases the immune response. The incorporation of drug-loaded halloysite within the electrospinning nanofibers is able to improve the tensile strength and maintain the three-dimensional structure of the nanofibrous mats. The “nano in nano” composite is a promising architectural approach for the design of a sustained drug delivery vehicle that combines the drug-loading capability of nanoparticles or nanotubes and electrospinning technology. With improved mechanical durability, sustained drug release profile, good cytocompatibility, and non-compromised therapeutic efficacy, the developed biocompatible electrospun polymer/halloysite nanofibers drug delivery system may be used as therapeutic scaffold materials for tissue engineering and drug delivery applications. In this chapter, we review the recent progress of biocompatible electrospun polymer–halloysite nanofibers for sustained release, and biomedical applications.