Sustainable Synthesis of Multifunctionalized Amoxicillin-Loaded Biopolymer Foams

Abstract

The development of biocompatible biopolymer foams loaded with antibiotics is crucial to advancing drug delivery systems in biomedical engineering. These materials offer controlled drug release and specialized functionalities for improved therapeutic outcomes. This study presents the development and characterization of antimicrobial polymeric biofoam materials loaded with the drug amoxicillin (AMX). The sustainable synthesis of these biopolymer foams involves a cost-effective, eco-friendly method that incorporates natural starch within poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) through an aldehyde cross-linking/stabilizing process. The highly porous structure of the biofoams enabled effective impregnation of the AMX drug using an innovative process involving ultrasonication and vacuum pressure to maximize efficiency and minimize biomaterial loss. The findings demonstrate the potential of these PVA/starch-based biofoams as versatile drug delivery systems with desirable physicochemical and biological characteristics. Detailed investigations were conducted to evaluate morphological features, chemical properties, swelling behavior, in vitro biodegradability, drug release profiles, cell culture, and antimicrobial activity tests of the prepared biofoam samples. Investigating the effect of controlled loading of AMX under laboratory conditions on its release profile and studying its biodegradation in various environments over time represent a critical aspect of this research. The optimal release profile under physiological conditions and the potent inhibition of bacterial growth against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus microorganisms by AMX-loaded biofoam materials highlight their potential for biomedical applications. These materials show promise for the in vivo administration and local treatment of bacterial infections.