Caffeic acid- and Coriolus versicolor extract-loaded polycaprolactone/polyvinyl alcohol bilayer films inhibit smooth muscle cell proliferation and platelet activation

Prototypes of monolayer polycaprolactone (PCL) films loaded with caffeic acid (CA), monolayer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films loaded with Coriolus versicolor extract (CvE), and bilayer PCL/PVA films loaded with both components were developed using gel casting in a proof-of-concept investigation of their biological potential. This work aimed to develop and characterize a bioactive bilayer PCL/PVA system loaded with CA and CvE and assess its effects on human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs), coronary artery smooth muscle cell (CASMC) proliferation, and platelet activation in vitro . Physical characterization revealed a polycrystalline-like topography in films loaded with CA and CvE, distinct from that of unloaded films. Release was detected over 24 h, with rapid and slow release of CvE and CA, respectively. Monolayer and bilayer films did not affect the viability of HCAEC and CASMC cultures or platelets, as assessed using resazurin and lactate dehydrogenase assays and live/dead fluorescence. Monolayer CA films and bilayer films loaded with CA and CvE affected CASMC proliferation but not HCAEC proliferation. Flow cytometry showed decreased PAC-1, CD40, PECAM-1, and P-selectin expression in platelets treated with FB-CA or FB-CA/CvE. These results demonstrate that bilayer films loaded with CA and CvE have the potential to inhibit human CASMC proliferation and suppress platelet activation and adhesion. Bilayer PCL/PVA films loaded with CA and CvE could serve as drug delivery systems.