Functionalization of natural gums: scientific tools to improve properties and applications

Abstract

Considering the natural abundance, biodegradability, sustainable nature, and good biocompatibility, natural gums are considered one of the most widely used pharmaceutical excipients in conventional dosage form as well as novel drug delivery systems. Albeit naturally occurring gums have emerged in recent years, there is generally a requirement to optimize the properties of these gums to suit their respective application in drug delivery. This optimization includes the attachment of an appropriate functional group, grafting with monomer, or cross-linking with ions. This functionalization results in enhanced properties of gums in comparison to their native counterpart. This chapter will discuss various chemical modification-based strategies involved in bestowing superior properties to the natural gums, facilitating the development of more stable formulations with specific and targeted drug release behavior. Along with this, a detailed account of their applications in different aspects of formulation and development will be provided. © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.