Application of Carbohydrate Polymers in Drug Delivery

Dear Colleagues,

Carbohydrate polymers are extensively studied in the development of drug delivery systems. These polysaccharide molecules are abundantly present in nature. Several preparation methods and crosslinking processes of carbohydrate-based hydrogels were reported in the literature to entrap and control the drug release. The versatile properties of natural and semi-synthetic polysaccharides were exploited to release the drug in a specific physiological environment based on pH, solubility, and microbial enzymes. Products such as microcapsules, nanoparticles, tablets, capsules, hydrogels, microbeads, and discs were developed using different methods, including ionotropic gelation, chemical crosslinking, radiation crosslinking, surface coating, and spray drying.

The Special Issue reports novel developments in drug delivery strategies using carbohydrate polymers. Examples of carbohydrate polymers include, but are not limited to, pectin, alginate, cellulose, chitosan, xanthan, acacia, and carrageenins. Furthermore, research and review articles with a specific interest in developing carbohydrate-based drug delivery systems addressing the following areas will be considered:

• Novel cross-linking and encapsulation processes;
• Treating particular diseases where carbohydrate polymers are vital in delivering the drug to the target site;
• Improving the dissolution and bioavailability of drugs;
• Addressing and resolving drug delivery issues;
• Modifying carbohydrate polymers to achieve desirable properties in drug delivery.

Dr. Saravanan Muniyandy
Dr. Pushpamalar Janarthanan
Prof. Dr. Nashiru Billa
Guest Editors

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