Hydrocolloids and Medicinal Chemistry Applications

The techniques for delivering substances into the human body have been widely researched by humankind for literally thousands of years from both a medicinal and recreational perspective. This chapter focuses on biopolymers that are investigated to provide modified-release properties and the use of biopolymers in biopharmaceutical formulations. Biopolymers in particular are widely used within pharmaceutical products, traditionally as excipients such as binders, fillers, thickeners, and disintegrants. Apart from numerous applications in traditional dosage forms, biopolymers have recently been used for the controlled delivery of biological material such as proteins, peptides, and vaccines. Biopolymer-derived hydrogels are now used widely in the delivery of drugs and are finding increased use in the fabrication of tissue-engineered structures. Their biological compatibility in a range of applications and recent developments in microscale processing technologies means that one can exercise unprecedented control over their microstructures and regional variations in chemical and physical environments. As the requirement for tissue replacements increases and with the development of new biopharmaceutical products, their widespread application in regenerative medicine in the next decade is set to increase significantly.