A new type of nanofibrous biopolymer materials is created in Russia

Print 01 August 2017
GMP News

The researchers at G.V. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, together with their colleagues from N.M. Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics of RAS and N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics of RAS, have obtained a new type of nanofibrous biopolymer materials. These materials have unique properties and can be used to manufacture the shells and capsules of medicinal products, bactericidal dressings, filtering and protective materials, as well as for bioresorbable implants (being replaced with bone tissue over time).

The researchers synthesized ultrafine fibers based on poly-3-hydroxybutyrate by using the method of electroforming, a process of obtaining micro- and nanofibres of any length from polymer melts in an electrodynamic field under the impact of high voltage.

The created polymers contain a small concentration of iron (III) complex and tetraphenylporphyrin, a heterocyclic compound, an analog of natural porphyrins. The introduction of metal complexes of porphyrins provides bactericidal properties, while the addition of the iron (III) complex increases the electroconductivity of biopolymer melt used to form the ultrathin fibers, thereby increasing the productivity of the manufacturing process for this material.

Based on the obtained material, the researchers have already created anti-wound antimicrobial dressings containing hemostatic elements, as well as the Achilles tendon implants. The bactericidal additive with the iron complex is similar to hemoglobin of the blood. Thus, not only does it disinfect the wounds, but also promotes rapid blood clotting. The technology has been patented.

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