Biodegradation study in FBS media of polycaprolactone patch as a potential prenatal treatment for myelomeningocele.

This article focuses on the in vitro degradation assessment of a biocompatible, watertight, and biodegradable double-layer patch designed for prenatal repair of myelomeningocele (MMC), a congenital spinal defect. The patch, made from polycaprolactone (PCL) and functionalized with bioactive poly(sodium polystyrene sulfonate) (polyNaSS) and anti-adhesive poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), was tested in a fetal bovine serum medium simulating amniotic fluid over 24 weeks. Results indicate that PCL undergoes progressive hydrolytic degradation characterized by decreased molar mass and surface erosion, with ozonation accelerating this process and potentially compromising patch integrity. The study suggests that grafting without ozonation preserves the patch's structure while maintaining its biological properties, supporting its potential use for early in utero MMC repair pending further mechanical and in vivo evaluations.