Characterization of Electrospun Polysuccinimide-dopamine Conjugates and Effect on Cell Viability and Uptake.

Biocompatible nanofibrous systems made by electrospinning have been studied widely for pharmaceutical applications since they have a high specific surface and the capability to make the entrapped drug molecule amorphous, which provides higher bioavailability. By covalently conjugating drugs onto polymers, the degradation of the drug as well as the fast clearance from the circulation can be avoided. Although covalent polymer-drug conjugates have a lot of advantages, there is a lack of research focusing on their nano-formulation by electrospinning. In this study, we have focused on the preparation of polyaspartamide-based electrospun fibrous meshes conjugated with dopamine. Fiber diameter, mechanical properties, dissolution kinetics, and membrane permeability were thoroughly investigated, as these are crucial for drug delivery and implantation. Dopamine release kinetics proved the prolonged release that influenced the viability and morphology of PDLSCs and SH-SY5Y cells. The presence of dopamine receptors on both cell types was also demonstrated and the uptake of the conjugates was measured. According to flow cytometry analysis, the conjugates were internalized by both cell types, which was influenced by the chemical structure and physical properties of the conjugates. In conclusion, electrospinning of polyaspartamide-dopamine conjugates alters release kinetics, meanwhile, conjugated dopamine can play a key role in cellular uptake. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.