Electrohydrodynamics 3D Printing Multi-functional Composite Capsule

Traditional gelatin capsules containing active drugs are widely used in our daily life.However,the mode of gelatin capsules containing a single drug and explosive release is difficult to meet the growing needs of patients.In this study,the electrohydrodynamics printing technology was used to design and fabricate new multi-functional capsules with multi-component drugs.Different biodegradable polymers were used as carrier materilas to carry drugs to explore its potential application in controlled release and personalized medicine.First of all,multi-component cylindrical capsule consisted of three layers and four compartments with three different drugs was designed and fabricated via improved electrohydrodynamics printing.Three release rate profiles were achieved in one capsule via changing the layer number of the printing fibers as well as conmbining different polymers with different solubilities.In addition,water contact angle test and bioadhesion test were carried out to confiem whether the cylindrical capsule pass though esophagus during in-vitro test.Secondly,separable cylindrical capsule with multi-component drugs was designed and fabricated with electrohydrodynamics printing technology and electrospinning.The complete concentric cylindrical capsule with 6 mm inner diameter and 15 mm length can be swallowed for oral drug delivery.After dissolution of the PVP interlayer,the capsule separated in two,with inner and outer capsules for continuous drug dosing and targeting.Imaging was achieved using 3T MRI system which allowed temporal observations of the targeted release though the incorporation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles.The morphology and structure,chemical composition,mechanical properties and biocompatibility of the capsules were studied in vitro.Finally,improved fusiform cylinder collector was applied to develop a separable fusiform capsule with multi-component drugs.The capsule has three layers and two different drugs.Fusiform capsule is capable of traveling through the esophagus and into the stomach in vitro.In this sutdy,the mechanisms of electric field used for fiber printing under a fusiform collector are investigated.Two segments of complete fusiform can be separated and its funtions were explored.By regulating the thickness of the middle layer,the capsule can be divided into three parts and release can be controlled separately.This study aims to develop new oral capsules and overcome the limitations of electrohydrodynamics printing technology though applying a new collector during 3D printing.Designed and fabricated separable capsule with multi-component drugs,which overcomes the disadvantages of traditional capsule,extendes the possibilities and functions of capsule,enriches the application prospects of personalized medicine and gratly meets the desires of patients.