Design and Development of Biodegradable Electrospun Nanofiber Mats for Potential Biomedical Application

Abstract

Nanotechnology has emerged as a powerful tool in the fight against microorganisms offering versatile approaches with immense potential for advancing microbial treatments and related protective measures. This thesis explores the application of nanomaterials particularly focusing on cerium oxide nanoparticles CNP conjugated with S Nitroso N acetyl penicillamine SNAP to address the challenges posed by harmful microorganisms. CNPs are notable for their unique properties including precise targeting controlled drug release and minimal harm to healthy cells due to their high oxygen vacancies and auto regenerative cycle between Ce+3 and Ce+4 oxidation states. These characteristics enable CNPs to serve as effective scavengers of reactive oxygen species and to undergo continuous regeneration thereby enhancing their antioxidant and antimicrobial capabilities. Similarly SNAP a nitric oxide donor molecule exhibits potent antimicrobial properties and holds significant promise for biomedical applications. This research aimed to conjugate CNP and SNAP to create a hybrid nanomaterial with an expanded antimicrobial spectrum. The hybrid nanomaterial was further interfaced with bacterial cellulose through electrospinning resulting in a nanofibrous mat with potent antimicrobial and biosustainable attributes. The hybrid nanofibrous solution demonstrated significant efficacy against both Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria. Post electrospinning the cellulosic mat containing CNP SNAP molecules was subjected to comprehensive testing to evaluate its nanofibrous diameter morphology elemental composition biocompatibility immune histocompatibility antimicrobial activity and biodegradability. The biocompatibility and immune histocompatibility assessments confirmed that the nanofibrous mat was safe for biomedical applications. The biodegradability tests showed that the material could be broken down in biological environments making it a sustainable option for long term use. This innovative nanohybrid material holds significant promise for