Biofilm of Electrospun Coaxial Polycaprolactone/Polyvinylpyrrolidone Fibers Containing Cisplatin: A Potential Local Chemotherapy Delivery System for Cervical Cancer Treatment

Cisplatin is a frequently used chemotherapeutic agent for cervical cancer; however, its use is limited by severe adverse effects. Treatment with localized therapy that limits systemic toxicity remains a significant challenge. This work aimed to develop a local intravaginal delivery system for cisplatin via a polycaprolactone (PCL)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) core/shell fiber biofilm using coaxial electrospinning technique. The physicochemical properties of the polymeric biofilm were characterized, as well as the degradation rate, residence time, drug release profile, and in vitro biosafety assays. SEM images confirmed the coaxial nature of the fibers and showed their continuous morphology and diameters of 3-9 µm, making them a good drug microcarrier system. FT-IR analysis showed the bands of the polymers and drug in the fibrous biofilm. Combining PCL and PVP in the manufactured fibers and incorporating cisplatin improved the mechanical properties. The contact angle with water was <85º, so its surface is highly hydrophilic, allowing its dissolution in the vaginal environment. The cisplatin release profile showed an initial rapid and explosive release followed by a slow and sustained release for over 8 days. The in vitro degradation test showed ~50% biofilm dissolution on day 10, consistent with the pharmacological release time. The adhesion of the fibrous biofilm to the vaginal wall was greater than 15 days, sufficient time to allow the release of the chemotherapeutic agent. Finally, the in vitro biosafety tests showed great cytocompatibility and no hemolysis. According to the characteristics evaluated, the developed biofilm could be a promising option for the localized treatment of cervical cancer.