Preparation and Characterization of PCL/PEO-PVP ECM-Mimicking Coaxial Electrospun Membranes Loaded with Ciprofloxacin and Curcumin for Sequential Dual-Drug Release

Abstract

Vascular stent implantation is a major treatment for vascular diseases, yet postoperative infection and persistent inflammation increase the risk of in-stent restenosis. Herein, core–shell structured PCL/PEO-PVP fiber membranes co-loaded with ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (CIP) and curcumin (CUR) were fabricated via coaxial electrospinning. Orthogonal experiments were conducted to optimize critical spinning parameters through multi-index comprehensive evaluation. Characterizations confirm intact core–shell architecture and stable polymeric backbone structure. In vitro release tests reveal sequential drug-delivery behavior: a rapid initial release of hydrophilic CIP and a delayed sustained release of hydrophobic CUR were observed, contributing to early-stage antibacterial and long-term anti-inflammatory effects, respectively. The “antibacterial zone” method verifies favorable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). ELISA results demonstrate the enhanced anti-inflammatory capacity of the dual-drug-loaded coaxial fiber membrane. Cellular assays confirm satisfactory cytocompatibility, and endothelial cells achieve normal proliferation and exhibit typical polygonal morphology on the membrane surface. This dual-drug-loaded coaxial-fiber membrane realizes coordinated sequential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which provides a feasible strategy for developing functional coatings toward vascular stents.