Functionalized Nanofibers: Revolutionizing Drug Delivery Systems and Biomedical Applications.

Abstract

This review article examines functionalized nanofibers and their potential to revolutionize drug delivery systems and enhance their biomedical applications. By leveraging the high surface- area-to-volume ratio and tunable physicochemical properties of nanofibers, the limitations of conventional drug delivery methods can be addressed. These nanofibers can be engineered for the controlled and sustained release of drugs, growth factors, and bioactive agents to improve treatment efficacy and mitigate side effects. Furthermore, the versatility of functionalized nanofibers in various biomedical fields has been investigated. In tissue engineering, nanofibers serve as scaffolds that emulate the extracellular matrix and facilitate cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, thus demonstrating the potential for regenerating tissues and organs, including bone, cartilage, and nerve repair. This review also explores their application in wound healing, where nanofiber dressings incorporating antimicrobial agents and growth factors can expedite healing, prevent infections, and minimize scarring, benefiting patients with chronic wounds, burns, and other complex skin injuries. Additionally, this article discusses the potential of functionalized nanofibers for developing innovative medical devices with therapeutic and diagnostic functions. The integration of sensing elements and drug-releasing components into nanofiber platforms has resulted in multifunctional devices capable of monitoring physiological parameters, detecting biomarkers, and delivering targeted therapies based on biological cues. The versatility of these nanofibers may enable the development of combination products that can incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities into a single platform, potentially enhancing the management of complex diseases and improving patient outcomes. The article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and future trajectory of electrospinning technology.