RESUMO
Modified halloysite nanotubes (HNT-NH2 and HNT-COOH) were synthesized by a coupling reaction with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane and maleic anhydride from hydroxyl groups of neat halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). Successful attachment of functional groups onto HNTs was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared and thermogravimetric analysis. X ray diffraction was used to study the crystalline structure of scaffolds and the formation of intercalated structure as a result of improved dispersion and decreased agglomeration of modified nanoparticles. Neat HNT, HNT-NH2 , and HNT-COOH were subsequently introduced into polycaprolactone/Pluronic P123 (PCL/P123) electrospun substrate. Morphology, thermodynamics, mechanics, and biocompatibility of resulted electrospun nanocomposites were evaluated. Nanofibers containing modified HNTs showed excellent mechanical performance and thermal stability in comparison with those containing neat HNTs. homogeneous dispersion of the modified HNTs and strong interfacial adhesion between nanotubes and polymer matrix can be considered for mentioned improvements. Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer was used to study diphenhydramine hydrochloride and diclofenac sodium release from nanocomposites containing drug loaded modified and neat HNTs. Nanocomposites containing drug loaded HNT-COOH exhibited prolonged release of drug molecules in comparison with that of neat HNTs. MTT assay reveled that PCL/P123/modified HNTs nanocomposites provide a suitable platform for cell growth where PCL/P123/HNT-NH2 can facilitate cell attachment through electrostatic interactions between negatively charged phospholipids bilayer membrane of cells and positively charged HNT-NH2 embedded in PCL/P123 substrate. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1276-1287, 2018.