Nanofiber-Based Drug Delivery System for Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU): A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a major complication of diabetes, contributing to high morbidity, decreased quality of life, and even limb amputation. Traditional treatments, such as wound dressings and systemic therapies, often fail to sufficiently promote healing or prevent recurrence, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Nanofiber-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising solution, offering unique advantages like high surface area, tunable porosity, and the ability to encapsulate and deliver therapeutic agents in a controlled and sustained manner. These systems can deliver various bioactive substances, including growth factors, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs, directly to the wound site, promoting faster healing, reducing infection, and enhancing tissue regeneration. The materials used for nanofiber fabrication include natural polymers, such as collagen and chitosan, and synthetic polymers like polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactic acid (PLA), which can be tailored to the specific needs of DFU treatment. Electrospinning, a versatile technique, is primarily employed to produce nanofibers with precise control over diameter and morphology, allowing for the customization of drug release profiles. This article provides a comprehensive review of the use of nanofiber-based drug delivery systems in the treatment of DFUs, focusing on their advantages, the therapeutic agents involved, materials used, and fabrication techniques. The review highlights the potential of these systems to revolutionize DFU management, offering a promising avenue for improving healing outcomes and reducing complications associated with diabetic foot ulcers