A review of semi-synthetic biopolymer complexes: modified polysaccharide nano-carriers for enhancement of oral drug bioavailability

Abstract

Semi-synthetic biopolymer complexes (SSBCs) have potential as nano-carriers for oral drug delivery due to their exceptional properties obtained by merging the properties of synthetic (e.g. good thermal and mechanical properties) with natural polymers (e.g. biocompatibility); thus, forming a new class of biopolymer materials incorporating the best of both worlds. Despite development in drug delivery systems, oral administration of therapeutic agent is still preferred. Several nano-polymeric systems has been prepared and characterized based on both synthetic polymers and natural polymers, each with its limitations and advantages. Among natural polymers, alginate, chitosan, and hyaluronic acid (HA) have been studied broadly for the fabrication of nanoparticles systems. This review discusses a newly investigated class of polymer called SSBCs as oral drug nano-carriers. It also discusses certain significant structural and functional attributes or effects which are essential to be taken into consideration when an oral drug delivery system is developed. The review is aimed at describing complexation of few natural polymers (e.g. polysaccharides) with selected synthetic polymers or synthetic chemicals to indicate some of the factors that influence preparation, solubility, formation, and stability of these SSBCs.

Keywords:

• Semi-synthetic biopolymers
• drug bioavailability
• oral drug nano-carrier

Disclosure statement

The authors confirm that there are no conflicts of interest.

Funding

This work was funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa.