Drug-loaded microbeads sandwiched between nanofiber layers for extended linear release

Fabrication of a triple-layered membrane consisting of a dexamethasone (DX)-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) microbead layer sandwiched between two PCL nanofiber layers is demonstrated for highly extended linear drug release with low initial burst. Dual syringe sequential electrospinning is used to produce the triple layers. A linear drug release of over 80 days and a significantly reduced initial burst of less than 30 % is reported. With the dual syringe electrospinning system, more degrees of freedom in the fabrication of a membrane with a customizable release profile can be realized.