Nanofiber-based sutures induce endogenous antimicrobial peptide

Aim: The aim of this study was to develop nanofiber-based sutures capable of inducing endogenous antimicrobial peptide production. Methods: We used co-axial electrospinning deposition and rolling to fabricate sutures containing pam3CSK4 peptide and 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25D₃). Results: The diameters and mechanical properties of the sutures were adjustable to meet the criteria of United States Pharmacopeia designation. 25D₃ exhibited a sustained release from nanofiber sutures over 4 weeks. Pam3CSK4 peptide also showed an initial burst followed by a sustained release over 4 weeks. The co-delivery of 25D₃ and pam3CSK4 peptide enhanced cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide production from U937 cells and keratinocytes compared with 25D₃ delivery alone. In addition, the 25D₃/pam3CSK4 peptide co-loaded nanofiber sutures did not significantly influence proliferation of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, or the monocytic cell lines U937 and HL-60. Conclusion: The use of 25D₃/pam3CSK4 peptide co-loaded nanofiber sutures could potentially induce endogenous antimicrobial peptide production and reduce surgical site infections.