Ionotropic Gelation and Chemical Crosslinking as Methods for Fabrication of Modified-Release Gellan Gum-Based Drug Delivery Systems

Abstract

Hydrogels have a tridimensional structure. They have the ability to absorb a significant amount of water or other natural or simulated fluids that cause their swelling albeit without losing their structure. Their properties can be exploited for encapsulation and modified targeted drug release. Among the numerous natural polymers suitable for obtaining hydrogels, gellan gum is one gaining much interest. It is a gelling agent with many unique features, and furthermore, it is non-toxic, biocompatible, and biodegradable. Its ability to react with oppositely charged molecules results in the forming of structured physical materials (films, beads, hydrogels, nanoparticles). The properties of obtained hydrogels can be modified by chemical crosslinking, which improves the three-dimensional structure of the gellan hydrogel. In the current review, an overview of gellan gum hydrogels and their properties will be presented as well as the mechanisms of ionotropic gelation or chemical crosslinking. Methods of producing gellan hydrogels and their possible applications related to improved release, bioavailability, and therapeutic activity were described.

Tragacanth gum-based hydrogels for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications

“…The threedimensional structure of these gels mimics the extracellular matrix, creating an optimal microenvironment for cell growth and tissue regeneration (Smagul et al, 2020). Additionally, the incorporation of bioactive molecules, growth factors, or stem cells within the gel matrix enhances the therapeutic potential and promotes (2023) tissue-specific regeneration (Polez et al, 2022). Tragacanth gumbased gels offer a versatile platform for tissue engineering, enabling the development of innovative strategies for repairing and regenerating damaged or diseased tissues Table 2.…”

Natural Gums in Drug-Loaded Micro- and Nanogels

“…Gellan gum is among the most promising exopolysaccharides and has lately gained much interest among researchers because of its ability to form a transparent solid gel in the presence of cations, which is called ionotropic gelation [ 109 ]. Among its most important properties, the lack of toxicity, biodegradability and biocompatibility should be mentioned.…”

Hemostasis Strategies and Recent Advances in Nanomaterials for Hemostasis

“…When the polymer structure of the gel contains hydrophilic groups, the gel will be more absorbent. The gel can swell in water without dissolving due to its three—dimensional crosslinking structure [ 65 ]. However, low mechanical strength limits the application of the gel.…”