Drug-loaded poly(L-lactide)/lignin stereocomplex film for enhancing stability and sustained release of trans-resveratrol

We report a new drug-loaded film for blending poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) with lignin-based functional filler, which enhanced stability and sustained release of trans-resveratrol (trans-RSV). In addition, trans-RSV loaded PLLA/lignin films showed good antioxidant and anticancer effects. Incorporation of the optimized amount of lignin-based filler to PLLA matrix was key to achieve these desired functions. The lignin-based filler (LG-g-PDLA) was synthesized via ring-opening polymerization on alklin lignin with D-lactide. Benifiting from the stereocomplex formation (PLLA and PDLA side chains), similar polyphenolic structures between lignin and trans-RSV, and UV chromophoric groups of lignin, trans-RSV loaded PLLA/lignin-graft-PDLA films (R/P/LGPD) have good performances on mechanical property, uniformity distribution of drug, and light barrier property. The release behaviors of trans-RSV could be controlled by variation of LG-g-PDLA content. This system therefore offers great potential for the delivery of poor water soluble and light stability drugs.