Drug Delivery Systems Based on Gellan Derivatives

Abstract

This paper proposes a review of the literature that reports valuable and interesting results regarding the biomedical applications of gellan and its derivatives. The different types of formulations for which this microbial exopolysaccharide is suitable are listed, which depend on the condition to be treated and their administration method: tablets, films, gels synthesized in situ, hydrogels, different types of particles, especially micro- and nanoparticles , mice etc. Research on the biomedical uses of gellan and its derivatives is far from being exhausted, newer directions regarding the creation of nanocomposites (with clays, for example), of mixtures or semi- and interpenetrated networks with other polymers revealing the obtaining of new extremely valuable biomaterials not only as supports for the encapsulation, transport and release of drugs, but also in the field of tissue engineering.