IN VIVO BIOCOMPATIBILITY EVALUATION OF NORFLOXACIN-LOADED CHITOSAN NANOFIBERS AND BORONIC ALDEHYDE-FUNCTIONALIZED DERIVATIVES IN RAT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22551/MSJ.2026.02.14Abstract
Chitosan-based nanofibers can serve as carriers for antimicrobial agents, providing controlled drug release and biocompatibility, which are crucial for tissue integration and healing. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo biocompatibility of norfloxacin-loaded chitosan nanofibers (NorC) and norfloxacin-loaded chitosan nanofibers functionalized with boronic aldehyde (NorCB), in comparison with standard wound treatments in rats. Materials and methods: NorC fibers were prepared via electrospinning of chitosan (CHIT) solution containing norfloxacin (Nor). NorCB fibers were obtained by imination of NorC fibers with boronic aldehyde. The study included four groups of Wistar rats: (i) a negative control group, which remained intact with no procedures performed, (ii) a positive control group with a simple incision covered by sulfadiazine-impregnated dressing as a clinically established reference for local antimicrobial protection, and (iii and iv) experimental groups with an incision covered by NorC, respectively NorCB nanoporous fibers. Biocompatibility was evaluated through clinical monitoring, as well as hematological, biochemical, and immunological blood analyses. All procedures were performed in compliance with institutional ethical guidelines for animal experimentation. Results: Both NorC and NorCB fibers did not impair liver or kidney function, did not induce local or systemic inflammatory responses, and preserved immune defense capacity. Laboratory parameters evaluated were comparable with those of the control groups. Functionalization with boronic aldehyde had no adverse impact on these outcomes. Conclusions: Nor-loaded CHIT nanofibers, with or without boronic agent functionalization, demonstrate good in vivo biocompatibility, maintaining organ function, immune competence, and absence of inflammatory effects. These findings support their potential as localized antibiotic delivery systems and advanced wound care materials.
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