Alginates and similar exopolysaccharides in biomedical application and pharmacy: Controled delivery of drugs

Due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, hydrophility, technological properties and vast availability, polysaccharides are widely used as natural non-toxic polymers in different branches of industry (food, cosmetic, textile, construction industries). Exopolysaccharides (as dextran, pullulan) have recently taken up a significant position in pharmaceutical industry. Alginate has an irreplaceable role in biomedicine, since its hydrogel form is successfully applied for immobilization of a wide range of enzymes, therapeutics, biochemical agents and different kinds of microorganisms and cells (herbal, animal or human). Alginate microspheres and microcapsules are used for controlled release of biologically active molecules, as well as cell carriers in tissue engineering. Special benefits are brought by the simplicity of configuration of alginate hydrogel, including the possibility of the controlled production of micro- and nanoparticles. Taking into account a very important role of alginates in the form of hydrogel in biomedicine, in this paper a specific attention is paid on the preparation and application of alginate matrices, microspheres and microcapsules that may have essential and unexchangeable usage/application. This paper therefore displays various possibilities of use of polysaccharide matrices for biomolecules, polysaccharide as excipients of pharmaceutical products for oral or local application, and provides a review of the examples of innovative applications.