
Abstract: Due to worldwide demand for environmentally friendly materials, research into renewable/biodegradable-based polymers has increased significantly, particularly toward aliphatic polyesters such as polybutylene succinate (PBS) and polybutylene adipate-coterephthalate (PBAT). Both PBS and PBAT offer advantages of high mechanical strength, ease of processing, and biodegradability. PBS, a semi-crystalline polyester, is prepared from 1,4- butanediol and succinic acid, whereas PBAT (a copolyester) is valued for its superior ductility and thermal stability. However, PBS has drawbacks such as low degradation rates and brittleness, while PBAT exhibits inferior barrier properties and a lower modulus. These limitations restrict the individual use of PBS and PBAT in specific commercial applications. Recent advances have explored the combination of nanotechnology to produce PBS and PBAT nanocomposites. The use of nanofillers such as carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, and metallic nanoparticles, including ZnO, Cu2O, MgO, and TiO2, has enhanced their physicochemical properties, improving thermal stability and mechanical strength. The nanofillers also impart beneficial antimicrobial and UV-resistant properties. The combination of PBAT and PBS, in blends or hybrid nanocomposites, produces materials with optimized biodegradation rates and mechanical properties, applicable in various fields such as agriculture, food packaging, flexible electronics, automotive and biomedical scaffolding. The present review provides a systematic analysis of research on PBAT and PBS, focusing on synthesis, structural enhancements through nano reinforcement and degradation behaviour. It also discusses how material properties are influenced by factors such as interfacial interactions, blending, filler type and morphology, while addressing challenges related to bio-based precursors and green synthesis for achieving circular economy objectives.
Introduction: Diabetic wounds are a challenge due to the resistance to healing caused by hyperglycemia, poor angiogenesis, and decreased expression of growth factors. Topical insulin therapy has been found to be beneficial in promoting the closure of the wound by increasing cell proliferation and collagen synthesis. However, the conventional insulin formulation has limitations such as rapid degradation, poor skin permeability, and short retention time. This study proposes a novel insulin-loaded transferosomal organogel formulation to improve transdermal delivery and sustained release for effective diabetic wound treatment. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a transferosomal organogel formulation for sustained insulin release in diabetic conditions. Method: Insulin-loaded transferosomes were prepared by thin film hydration with soy lecithin and Span 80, followed by sonication. Eight different formulations (F1-F8) were tested for vesicle size, PDI, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency (EE%). The best formulation (F3) was then mixed with a 2% HPMC-based organogel. Various physicochemical properties, drug content, rheology, pH, spreadability, gelation properties, in vitro drug release (Franz diffusion cell), and short-term stability were evaluated. Results: The optimized formulation F3 had optimal properties, which included vesicle size of 255 nm, PDI of 0.343, zeta potential of -34.5 mV, and EE% of 83.01 ± 1.5%. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images revealed spherical and evenly distributed vesicles measuring 110-170 nm. Transferosomes showed sustained release of insulin (90.56% at 24 h) compared to free insulin (99% at 6 h), following first-order kinetics (R² = 0.989) with Higuchi diffusion. The organogel was transparent, homogeneous, skin-compatible (pH 6.32 ± 0.02), and had appropriate viscosity (2500 ± 25 cps), with good spreadability and gelation at 31.9°C. Sustained release was observed up to 48 h (70.25%), and the formulation was stable for 1 month without any changes. Discussion: The optimized F3 transferosomes had optimal nanometric size and negative zeta potential, which provided electrostatic stability and biocompatibility for topical application. The high EE% value indicated effective encapsulation of insulin, while the sustained release profile, which was dominated by first-order kinetics and matrix diffusion, outperformed free insulin, thus reducing the need for frequent administration and systemic toxicity. The formulation, when incorporated into a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) organogel, improved thermosensitive gelation and spreadability, thus making it easy to conform to the wound surface. These properties are collectively beneficial for enhancing insulin bioavailability at the wound surface, thus having the potential to induce re-epithelialization and granulation tissue formation in diabetic models. Short-term stability confirms the manufacturability of the formulation; however, longterm stability and in vivo efficacy testing are required. Conclusion: The insulin-loaded transferosomal organogel had optimal stability, sustained release of insulin, and optimal physicochemical properties for topical application. This system, which enhances skin penetration and prolongs insulin bioavailability, has the potential to be a promising therapeutic approach for improving healing in diabetic wounds.
Conventional drug delivery systems are often limited by poor bioavailability, premature drug degradation, and lack of targeted release, underscoring the need for innovative carriers that enhance therapeutic efficacy. Biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) have emerged as a promising solution, yet their design–function relationships and translational potential remain fragmented across the literature. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current advances in the synthesis, structural engineering, and biomedical applications of biodegradable PNPs. Biocompatible polymers such as chitosan, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) are highlighted for their ability to encapsulate therapeutic agents and enable controlled release at disease-specific sites. Fabrication techniques, including electrospraying, emulsion–solvent evaporation, and nanoprecipitation, are discussed in relation to particle size, drug-loading capacity, and release kinetics. Special emphasis is placed on surface modification strategies such as PEGylation and ligand conjugation that extend circulation time and achieve precise tissue targeting. In addition, preclinical evaluations of in vitro and in vivo performance are summarized, focusing on stability, safety profiles, and therapeutic outcomes. By integrating design principles, mechanistic insights, and translational challenges, this study offers a critical assessment of the state of the art in biodegradable PNPs. We conclude that PNPs hold strong potential for personalized and sustained therapies with reduced side effects. Remaining challenges, such as scalable manufacturing, long-term stability, and immunogenicity, must be addressed, and emerging solutions, including AI-guided design and hybrid polymer systems, provide promising avenues for future research
Introduction: The present work reports the production and characterization of chitosan microspheres (QUI) and chitosan/palygorskite hybrid microspheres (QUI/Pal) and investigates their performance for the controlled delivery of the biostimulants glycine (Gly) and glutamic acid (Glu) and their potential application in plants. Methods: Three groups of microspheres were obtained using the water-in-oil emulsion method and characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), swelling degree (H), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The captured amino acids were quantified by UV-Visible spectrophotometry, and their potential biological activity was assessed. Results: The incorporation of palygorskite into hybrid microspheres (QUI/Pal) significantly improved amino acid capture efficiency and modulated delivery kinetics, resulting in slower and more gradual release profiles compared to QUI microspheres. Discussion: Mathematical modeling revealed a two-stage diffusion process: an initial Fickian phase followed by a non-Fickian phase associated with polymer matrix relaxation. Biological studies demonstrated that QUI/Pal microspheres loaded with amino acids did not generate adverse toxic effects in plants. Conclusion: Biological assays with Capsicum chinense (habanero pepper) showed that QUI/Pal microspheres improved germination percentage, biomass production, and root elongation in a dose-dependent manner. These results confirm the potential of QUI/Pal microspheres as effective systems for the controlled delivery of biostimulants in agricultural applications.
Introduction: This study provides a comparative analysis of two manufacturing methods for Polypropylene (PP): injection molding and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing. We correlate the mechanical and thermal properties of both processes with a preliminary economic analysis to help guide the selection of the most suitable method for various industrial applications. Methods: The analysis was based on technical data provided by manufacturers, without conducting laboratory tests. Key properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, impact resistance, and softening temperature were evaluated. The data was organized into graphs and tables to facilitate a direct comparison between the two processes. Results: Injection-molded polypropylene exhibited significantly superior mechanical and thermal performance. This is attributed to the higher structural density and molecular orientation achieved during the process. In contrast, 3D-printed polypropylene showed lower mechanical performance, primarily due to the presence of interlaminar discontinuities. However, it demonstrated key advantages in geometric flexibility and lower initial cost, making it suitable for lowvolume production and rapid prototyping. The preliminary economic analysis (taking into account the Brazilian scenario) revealed that injection molding requires a high initial investment, particularly for the mold fabrication, but it becomes more cost-effective in large-scale production due to a drastic reduction in unit cost. 3D printing, on the other hand, is ideal for ondemand applications and the production of unique or low-volume parts, where customization and agility are more critical than mechanical performance. discussion: The choice between these two manufacturing methods should not be based solely on individual performance metrics or cost. A systemic analysis is necessary, one that considers the product's life cycle, production scale, and the specific functional requirements of each application. The findings highlight a trade-off: superior performance and low unit cost at high volume with injection molding versus high design flexibility and low initial cost for low-volume production with 3D printing. Discussion: The choice between these two manufacturing methods should not be based solely on individual performance metrics or cost. A systemic analysis is necessary, one that considers the product's life cycle, production scale, and the specific functional requirements of each application. The findings highlight a trade-off: superior performance and low unit cost at high volume with injection molding versus high design flexibility and low initial cost for low-volume production with 3D printing. Conclusion: This study concludes that the optimal choice between injection molding and 3D Printing for polypropylene depends on a holistic evaluation of both technical and economic factors. The research provides a foundation for more informed decisions making in product engineering by considering the structural performance, economic viability, and the practical application needs of each process.
Introduction: Gelatin-based hydrogels are widely used for wastewater treatment due to their biocompatibility and network-forming ability. Their adsorption performance can be enhanced by incorporating a protein-rich extract from Spirulina platensis (PC), which provides functional groups capable of chelating metal ions and interacting with organic molecules. In this work, magnetically responsive hydrogels composed of bovine gelatin, PC, and magnetite nanoparticles (MNP), crosslinked with oxidized sodium alginate (OA) and plasticized with glycerol, were developed for selective aqueous contaminant removal. Methods: The hydrogels were synthesized and characterized by FTIR, SEM-EDS, XRD, VSM, DSC, and uniaxial compression to assess structural, thermal, and mechanical properties. Crosslinking degree, total soluble material, and swelling capacity were also determined. Adsorption experiments were performed using Pb(II) ions and model dyes, with kinetic data analyzed using pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order models. Results and Discussion: Incorporation of PC enhanced hydrogel thermal stability without significantly affecting crosslinking. Under the tested conditions, PC-containing hydrogels demonstrated markedly higher adsorption capacities for cationic species such as methylene blue and Pb(II), compared to the anionic dye eosin (i.e., 1.78 ± 0.16, 1.86 ± 0.19, and 0.41 ± 0.03 mg/g, respectively), suggesting preferential electrostatic interactions and selective affinity. Kinetic analyses, supported by FTIR, indicated that chemisorption governed the uptake of cationic species, while eosin adsorption was mainly driven by physical interactions associated with swelling. Magnetic measurements confirmed superparamagnetic behavior, enabling easy recovery of the hydrogels. discussion: The discussion was included within the results section. Conclusion: Sustainable, magnetically responsive gelatin-based hydrogels incorporating PC and MNP, crosslinked with OA, were successfully synthesized as selective and reusable adsorbents for advanced wastewater treatment.
Quality assurance and quality control are essential in the pharmaceutical industry to ensure product safety and effectiveness. Various analytical tools and techniques have been used in pharmaceutical analysis to evaluate the quality and quantity of drugs/APIs/and additives. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) is a crucial thermoanalytical technique widely used in the development of pharmaceutical formulations and in quality control. It provides comprehensive insights into the thermal behavior of drug substances, excipients, and final dosage forms by measuring enthalpy changes during phase transitions. DSC plays a significant role in assessing drug-excipient compatibility, stability studies, polymorphism, and crystallization behavior. It also contributes to optimizing lyophilization processes and evaluating the thermal stability of pharmaceutical compounds under varying conditions. This review highlights the underexplored limitations of DSC in predicting long-term stability and its reduced interpretability in complex multicomponent systems. It also comprehensively presents the diverse applications of DSC in pharmaceutical research, emphasizing its importance in formulation development, quality assurance, and drug stability evaluation. Additionally, three key unmet needs are identified that hinder the effective translation of DSC findings into clinically relevant pharmaceutical formulations. Furthermore, a comprehensive discussion of DSC and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) is provided, highlighting their fundamental differences in measuring thermal properties.
Quercetin is a naturally occurring polyphenolic flavonoid that has recently attracted considerable interest from the scientific community due to its intriguing biological properties. Quercetin has been extensively investigated for its pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, antiasthmatic, anti-obesity, and antiproliferative activities both in vitro and in vivo. However, its physicochemical properties, such as low solubility and bioavailability, severely limit its clinical applications. This review explores the potential of various nanoformulations in developing quercetin dosage forms with enhanced bioavailability. Advances in nanotechnology and intelligent delivery systems enable the successful encapsulation of bioactive quercetin, which is often difficult with conventional formulations. Advanced drug delivery nanosystems can target, encapsulate, and release quercetin more effectively. Fabricating quercetin at the nanoscale can address issues such as low bioavailability, in vivo degradation, toxicity, uneven drug distribution, poor intestinal absorption, and non-specific site action. The unique properties of polymer-based nanocarriers can improve the ADME(T) profile (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicology). Lipid-based nanocarriers, particularly liposomes, solid-lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers, are widely used to enhance quercetin’s oral absorption and targeting, increase its therapeutic efficacy, and provide sustained release. Quercetin formulations have also employed micelles and hydrogels made from natural or synthetic polymers. Additionally, cyclodextrins, nanoemulsions, and niosomes are proposed as alternative formulations for administration via various routes. This article provides a comprehensive review of the role of advanced drug delivery nanosystems in the formulation and administration of quercetin.
Objective: The primary objective of this study is to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of diacerein, a poorly soluble BCS Class II drug, by developing inclusion complexes with Hydroxy Propyl β-Cyclodextrin (HPβCD) and solid dispersions using PEG 6000 Method: A strategic approach was taken to develop solid dispersions of diacerein using three distinct techniques: kneading, melting, and physical mixing, with varying ratios of HPβCD and PEG 6000. By carefully selecting the optimal polymer and drug-to-polymer ratio, we successfully enhanced diacerein's physical stability, solubility, and dissolution rate, which paves the way for improved therapeutic outcomes Results and Discussion: Our optimized HPβCD-based solid dispersion achieved a remarkable six-fold (1.909±0.34 mg/ml) increase in diacerein solubility, a significant leap forward in enhancing the drug's therapeutic potential. Advanced characterization studies using FTIR, PXRD, and DSC revealed a successful transformation from crystalline to amorphous form, which unlocks the key to enhanced solubility and dissolution rate. This approach has the potential to revolutionize the delivery of poorly soluble drugs like diacerein Conclusion: Our research reveals that the kneading method, combined with a 1:1 ratio of diacerein to HPβCD, unlocks unprecedented solubility levels, setting the stage for a major breakthrough in treating patients with poorly soluble drugs. This strategy holds immense promise for enhancing therapeutic effectiveness, offering new hope for improved patient outcomes.
The description of copolymer composition is a crucial topic in polymer science courses. However, it is regrettable that current polymer science textbooks fail to sufficiently clarify the copolymer composition equations, posing a significant teaching challenge for course instructors. This study employs the kinetic method and the Markov chain method to mathematically and rigorously formulate two different equations that describe the relationship between the copolymer composition and the molar ratio of two monomers in a copolymerization reaction, one of which is the well-known Mayo-Lewis equation. We prepared 11 sets of figures to evaluate the reliability and accuracy of the two equations. Despite significant formal differences, the equations were found to describe essentially equivalent phenomena, thereby validating the Mayo-Lewis equation as a reliable approximation of the underlying phenomenon. These explanations were then presented to a class of students majoring in materials chemistry. The survey results regarding teaching effectiveness showed that over 70% of the students surveyed believed that these explanations improved the rationality of the steady-state assumption, the validity of the copolymer composition equations, the memorability of the equations, and their understanding of the mechanism of binary free radical copolymerization. Hence, these explanations address deficiencies in current textbooks and improve the students’ comprehension of the topic.
Graft copolymerization serves as the most intriguing option for modifying the characteristics of naturally occurring polymers while preserving their native properties. Natural polymers are utilized in a wide range of culinary and medical applications. The low density of polymeric materials and their capacity to integrate the characteristics of their constituent parts made them attractive. The high-energy accelerated electrons in the plasma cause the chemical bonds of the polymeric structure to break down, generating macromolecular radicals and initiating graft copolymerization. Methods: Graft copolymerization is a powerful process for incorporating hybrid characteristics into the backbone of polymers. Grafting is frequently triggered by the monomer, followed by the free radical formation in the centre of the polymer backbone. Grafted polysaccharides offer a wide range of applications in various significant arenas, including the delivery of drugs, pharmaceuticals, the plastic, textile, and agricultural industries, wastewater treatment, and tannery treatment. This piqued our interest, which led to the compilation of a list of significant research and review articles published over the past few decades that explain various methods of grafting, surface alteration, and graft copolymerization of synthetic and natural polymers. Polysaccharide graft copolymerization enhances the functional properties of natural polymers. Various initiation methods, including ceric ions, persulfates, irradiation, FAS-HⁿOⁿ, and microwave energy, offer differing efficiencies and environmental impacts, with microwave initiation being notably rapid and environmentally friendly. Monomer selection (e.g., acrylic acid, acrylonitrile, acrylamide, MMA) allows tuning of properties for applications in pharmacy, wastewater treatment, agriculture, and industry. While the technique holds great potential, challenges like incomplete grafting and scalability persist, highlighting the need for greener and more efficient processes. Numerous redox initiator methods, such as ceric ammonium nitrate, persulfate, irradiation, FAS-H2O2, etc., are also being investigated for vinyl grafting using standard and nontraditional approaches. In the formulation development process, polymer grafting has gained immense prominence. Numerous desired and undesired attributes can be added or eliminated by altering the functional groups of polymers. Based on the results of the literature review, it can be stated that graft copolymers of polysaccharides have significant applications in medicine, particularly in tissue engineering and drug delivery.
Agricultural waste, once considered an inevitable by-product of global farming practices, is now emerging as a goldmine of untapped potential. With the planet grappling with escalating waste production, the transformation of agricultural residues into high-value products represents a revolutionary shift toward sustainable development. This review delves into the multifaceted world of agricultural waste management, exploring its vast potential in industries ranging from biofuels and biodegradable plastics to the burgeoning field of pharmaceutical excipients. We highlight cutting-edge technologies such as enzymatic hydrolysis, microwave-assisted extraction, and advanced bioconversion processes that are redefining the role of waste in global supply chains. By uncovering the hidden value within crop residues, animal by-products, and agro-industrial waste, we showcase the promise of a circular economy that converts waste into resources. Particularly compelling is the conversion of agricultural by-products into pharmaceutical excipients, where substances like cellulose, starch, and lignin are transformed into crucial components that enhance drug formulations. The environmental and economic implications of such innovations are profound, with potential reductions in carbon footprints, pollution, and resource depletion. As we stand on the cusp of a bioeconomic revolution, this review paints a vivid picture of how waste valorisation not only addresses critical environmental challenges but also spurs economic growth, scientific innovation, and sustainable practices that could redefine industries, reshape economies, and unlock new frontiers of scientific discovery.
Nanocomposites represent a category of materials that have unique properties, surpassing those of conventional composites. The biomedical uses of polymer-based, ceramic-based, carbon-based, and hybrid nanocomposites are thoroughly examined in this review. Particularly in 3D-printed scaffolds, polymer nanocomposites enriched with nanofillers like graphene and MXenes exhibit exceptional properties for advanced drug delivery systems and tissue engineering. Zirconia and alumina-based ceramic nanocomposites are chemically, thermally, and impactresistant, making them suitable for biosensing and promoting bone tissue growth, among other applications. Graphene derivatives and carbon nanotubes are carbon nanocomposites with high strength, biocompatibility, and advantages in drug delivery directly to the target and bioimaging. Hybrid nanocomposites contain either the organic or inorganic phases and have a wide variety of opportunities for biological applications (e.g., efficient drug delivery, anticancer therapy). Advanced nanocomposites are being synthesized using top-down and bottom-up approaches to study their effect on structure and functionality methodologies to allow new approaches in organic/ glassy nanocomposites. Advanced characterization approaches, such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing, complement this information on their character. The significance of biocompatibility and toxicity is also included, underscoring the challenge of translating to the clinic. This paper discusses the disruptive potential of nanocomposites in medication delivery, diagnostics, cancer therapeutics, and tissue engineering. Nevertheless, to some extent, addressing scalability, regulatory, and biocompatibility issues is necessary to enable the incorporation of these systems into next-generation biomedical systems.
Microspheres are tiny spherical particles with a diameter of 1 to 1000 μm that play a key role in several industries, most notably medicine delivery. This article provides an extensive overview of polymeric microspheres, including information on their uses, advantages, disadvantages, and various forms. We pay special attention to mucoadhesive microspheres and those containing herbal medicines. Improved bioavailability, regulated release patterns, and increased medicinal efficiency of plant extracts are among the important discoveries. Microspheres can be roughly categorized as either synthetic or natural. Synthetic microspheres provide targeted distribution and controlled medication release. One example of a synthetic microsphere is a biodegradable polymer called poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). They might, however, run into restrictions like burst discharge and difficulties increasing production. On the other hand, natural microspheres made of substances like albumin or starch provide biocompatibility and easy disintegration, but they might not give you exact control over the kinetics of drug release. One subset of microspheres, known as mucoadhesive microspheres, has attracted a lot of attention due to its capacity to stick to mucosal surfaces, increasing bioavailability and extending the duration of drug residence. A variety of polymers, such as chitosan and alginate, which have strong adhesive qualities to mucosal tissues, can be used to create these microspheres. Moreover, the integration of herbal medicines into polymeric microspheres has several benefits, such as increased stability, regulated release, and better therapeutic effectiveness. To sum up, microspheres show great promise as a drug delivery platform. Particular benefits include increased bioavailability, controlled release, and targeted therapy for mucoadhesive microspheres and those containing herbal medicines. This article provides an in-depth review of polymeric microspheres, highlighting their various forms, benefits, drawbacks, and uses, with a particular focus on mucoadhesive microspheres and those encapsulating herbal medications. Key findings include enhanced bioavailability, controlled release profiles, and improved therapeutic efficacy of herbal extracts.
Currently, the literature on amino acid delivery through microspheres is almost nonexistent. The present study was based on the development and characterization of hybrid microspheres of a polymeric matrix structured with palygorskite nanoclays. These microspheres are proposed to be used as controlled delivery systems of amino acids for agricultural applications. Hybrid microspheres of Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and Palygorskite (Pal) were prepared via the double emulsion method with solvent evaporation. Likewise, the amino acids Glycine (Gly) and Glutamic acid (Glu) were integrated in situ during the preparation of the microspheres, all of which were characterized through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Particle Size (TP) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD); the amino acids were detected through Ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometry. Microspheres with spherical morphology were obtained, and as the Pal content increased, they displayed irregular surfaces with particle sizes between 101 and 152 μm. Pal in the microspheres was detected with XRD. The microspheres that trapped a greater amount of amino acids were those containing 2.5% Pal, which presented longer delivery times compared to those microspheres with only the PLA matrix. The mathematical modeling of the delivery kinetics demonstrated that the amino acid release depends on the diffusion mechanism through the microspheres; the study also demonstrated that the presence of nanoclays influences the diffusion speed.
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Polysaccharides, naturally occurring and renewable biopolymers, have garnered significant attention due to their structural versatility and wide-ranging applications across the biomedical, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. This review explores the role of polysaccharides as excipients and their emerging importance in drug delivery systems, gene therapy, tissue engineering, medical implants, and biosensing. With detailed insights into their antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and anticancer properties, the review highlights the significance of polysaccharides, such as chitosan, alginates, cellulose, hyaluronic acid, pullulans, and xanthan gum, in developing advanced biomaterials. Various grafting techniques, including chemical and physical methods, are examined for their potential to modify surface properties and enhance biocompatibility, targeting ability, and mechanical strength. Despite the promising biomedical applications, challenges persist in optimizing grafting techniques, ensuring biocompatibility, and overcoming regulatory hurdles. This review also enlightens the current market potential of polysaccharides, emphasizing the growing demand for natural and plant-based materials. Future directions should focus on enhancing the scalability of production, improving chemical modification processes, and addressing technical limitations in tissue engineering applications.
BCL is a BCS Class III drug. It has a relatively low oral bioavailability of about 40% due to its short half-life (2-4 hours) and rapid clearance from the body. Developing gastroretentive technology can enhance its bioavailability by prolonging its retention in the stomach, ensuring more consistent absorption and therapeutic effects. It is well absorbed in the acidic environment of the stomach (pH 1-4). Due to the highly hydrophilic nature of BCL, the development of hydrocolloid-based floating beads for oral controlled release presents a significant challenge. To overcome this challenge, a blend of Sodium Alginate and Gelucire 43/01 was used which forms an intercalating structure network in situ that helps in controlling drug release in the stomach. The aim of this study is to develop and optimize a gastro buoyant drug delivery system of Baclofen (BCL) using a Taguchi 32-factorial design assisted formulation. The formulation encompasses Gelucire 43/01 and sodium alginate to create gastro-buoyant multi-unit systems that provide controlled drug release in the gastric environment. To develop and characterize BCL loaded beads matrixed with Gelucire 43/01 and Sodium Alginate to retain in the stomach for achieving site-specific drug delivery. The formulation were investigated to achieve a controlled release of BCL to maintain therapeutic drug level concentration over an extended period, reducing the frequency of dosing. Utilization of 32 factorial designs to investigate the effects of various formulation variables on the buoyancy time (Y1) and drug release (Y2) profile. 09 formulations were prepared as per 32 Taguchi factorial design studies using Minitab software. From conducted optimization studies, it was found that Gelucire 43/01 is responsible for achieving buoyancy and retardation of Baclofen from the intercalating polymeric matrices in 0.1 N HCl. Drug excipient thermal analysis studies confirmed that there is development of polyelectrolyte complex. All the formulations remained buoyant till the time of drug release with 100% buoyancy. Entrapment efficiency ranges from 99.74-90.90 with a low standard deviation. The obtained polynomial quadratic equation indicates the synergistic effect for both the polymers for Y1 and Y2 response. % dissolution efficiency ranging from 92.78 to 99.62, which means formulations have potential to produce therapeutic response when given in vivo. By using topography studies using SEM, it was found that there is a generation of porous structure which leads to lesser density than the utility (1.04 g/cm3) and is responsible for achieving buoyancy. Formulations F2 and F3 were found to be optimized. Drug release kinetics suggested that all the formulations follow zero-order kinetics with low AIC values. Obtained Durbin-Watson statistics suggested that models are highly validated and the degree of error is less for both responses (Y1 and Y2). It may be concluded that polymer matrices composed of Gelucire 43/01 and sodium alginate as release retardants may be an excellent carrier for stomach-specific delivery of model drug BCL.
The objective of this study was to formulate and optimize the validation of Bacitracin Zinc Hydrogel using Sodium Alginate and Carbopol-934 for wound healing. This primary aim was to formulate and improve a Bacitracin Zinc hydrogel with improved wound healing qualities by utilising carbopol-934 and sodium alginate as gelling agents. The objective of the study was to assess the hydrogel physicochemical characteristics, medication release profile, and healing efficacy, in addition to verifying its performance as a topical wound therapy. Objective : To formulate and and Optimize Validation of Bacitracin Zinc Hydrogel Using Sodium Alginate and Carbopol-934 for wound healing. Different amounts of sodium alginate and carbopol-934 were used to formulate the hydrogel. Many formulations were developed, and physicochemical characteristics, such as homogeneity, spreadability, viscosity, and pH, were assessed. Utilising in vitro diffusion tests, the drug release rate was evaluated, and the stability of the hydrogel was examined under various storage conditions. The optimal formulation was determined due to its desired characteristics The optimized formulation, containing an ideal ratio of sodium alginate and Carbopol- 934, exhibited desirable physicochemical properties, including appropriate viscosity, pH, and drug release profile. The in vitro studies showed a sustained drug release over 24 hours. The formulation was found to be stable under ambient conditions for a period of 2 months. The study successfully formulated and optimized a Bacitracin Zinc hydrogel using sodium alginate and Carbopol-934, which showed promising results in terms of drug release, stability, and wound healing efficacy. This hydrogel formulation holds potential for use as a topical treatment for enhanced wound healing.