No abstract

Polysaccharides, due to their outstanding properties, have attracted the attention of researchers, working in the biomedical field and especially of those working in drug delivery. Modified/functionalized polysaccharides further increase the importance for various applications. Delivery of therapeutics for diverse ailments in different endocrine glands and hormones safely, is a focal point of researchers working in the field. Among the routes followed, the transdermal route is preferred due to non‐exposure of active moieties to the harsh gastric environment and first‐pass metabolism. This review starts with the overview of polysaccharides used for the delivery of various therapeutic agents. Advantages of polysaccharides used in the transdermal route are addressed in detail. Types of polysaccharides will be elaborated through examples, and in this context, special emphasis will be on the polysaccharides being used for synthesis of the membranes/films. Techniques employed for their modification to design novel carriers for therapeutics delivery will also be discussed. The review will end with a brief discussion on recent developments and future perspectives for delivery of therapeutic agents, and vaccine development.

Polysaccharides are an important element in several fields such as endocrinology, drug delivery, and vaccine. This Importance comes from their biocompatibility, safety, and cost efficiency. Moreover, the ability to chemically modify and functionalize polysaccharides with a large spectrum of functional groups expands their usability. In addition, chemical modifications of polysaccharide can alter their physicochemical properties. For these reasons, researchers have studied distinct features of modified polysaccharides to perfect their properties and better their pharmacological actions. For more details see the Review by A. Elaissar et al. on 8437 ff.

According to the WHO, over 350 and 250 million individuals have been estimated as chronic carriers of HBV and HCV, worldwide. About 1.34 million deaths are attributed to HBV and HCV, globally. Objective: To estimate the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV-related hepatitis. Methods: For this purpose, a population of 300 individuals was screened for HBsAg and Anti-HCV antibodies. Data were collected from tested individuals included their age, gender, occupation. Prevalence of HBV and HCV was found at 10% and 14% respectively. Co-infection of both pathogens was observed in 1.33% of individuals. Male (18%) were more infected with these viruses as compared to females (6%). The highest percentage (75%) of HBV/HCV was in adult patients of age between 31-50 years. The various risk factor associated with the spread of viral hepatitis were also considered for a better understanding of the routes of spread of these viral infections. Results: Out of 300 screened individuals, 21% had a history of going through any dental procedure, followed by 17% with needle stick injuries. Only 7.6% of persons had a history of any blood transfusion. Conducting such type of seroprevalence studies can help the administration and health care authorities to take necessary control measures to minimize the chances of acquiring these infections by eliminating risk factors. Conclusion: Further, these surveillance studies can also play a significant role in the launch of vaccination programs in areas of high prevalence.