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Electrospun nanofiber therapeutics for localized post-surgical breast cancer treatment
Tabatabaei, Elmira Sadat
Tabatabaei, Elmira Sadat
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Tabatabaei_2026.pdf
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2026-03-24
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Abstract
Breast cancer recurrence at the tumor bed after surgery remains a significant clinical challenge. Standard chemotherapy given throughout the body can reduce recurrence but exposes healthy tissues to harmful side effects and may not maintain high drug levels at the site where the tumor was removed. Because cancer recurrence at the original site increases the risk of metastasis and death, improved local drug delivery after surgery is needed. To address this gap, we are developing an implantable, core-shell electrospun nanofiber platform for localized post-surgical therapy. Coaxial electrospinning is used to fabricate nanofiber mats with a payload-rich core surrounded by a protective polymer shell. This coaxial core-shell structure separates sensitive biomolecules from the outer polymer layer and creates a controllable barrier for sustained release of therapeutic payloads, such as bioactive peptides and albumin-based therapeutics. We optimize biodegradable polymer compositions and processing conditions to produce uniform fibers while preserving peptide and protein activity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used to assess fiber morphology and diameter, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirms the core-shell structure. Encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release, and payload stability are measured to guide design improvements that prevent drug release that is too fast or too slow and ensure effective local exposure. Biological performance is evaluated using cell toxicity assays in breast cancer cells to measure cancer cell killing, along with testing in healthy cells to assess compatibility and distinguish therapeutic effects from nonspecific toxicity. In Kansas, where breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women (?2,100 diagnoses and ?360 deaths annually), this cost-conscious, locally deliverable strategy supports translational innovation aimed at improving post-surgical cancer control while minimizing systemic burden.
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Poster project completed at Wichita State University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Department of Biological Sciences.
Presented at the 23rd Annual Capitol Graduate Research Summit, Topeka, KS, March 24, 2026.
23rd Capitol Graduate Research Summit (CGRS) -- University Award
Presented at the 23rd Annual Capitol Graduate Research Summit, Topeka, KS, March 24, 2026.
23rd Capitol Graduate Research Summit (CGRS) -- University Award
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Wichita State University