Nanocellulose as an Avenue for Drug Delivery Applications: A Mini-Review

Abstract

A controlled and sustained release of an accurate dose of medications into a system can cure diseases associated with the human body. Different potential drug delivery vehicles, which are biocompatible and non-toxic, have been synthesized and developed for the controlled release of drugs targeting specific organs or areas. A delivery agent procured from sustainable sources with less or no side effects is more advantageous in terms of compatibility and toxicity. Among a few bioresources, one such material obtained is the nanocellulose-based drug delivery vehicle. They are ideal for the transport and release of drugs since they are biocompatible and possess good mechanical properties. A major characteristic feature of nanocellulose is that different surface modifications are possible due to the presence of a large number of hydroxyl groups, which can strengthen the interactions required with the therapeutic drug for delivery. Pharmaceutical drugs can strongly bind to the nanocellulose material through electrostatic interactions, and the release can occur in a sustained manner to the target within a few minutes to several days. In this mini-review, we have tried to summarize some of the most important works carried out in the field of nanocellulose-based drug delivery, different types of nanocellulose, its surface modification possibilities, and delivery of medications through three main routes, oral, transdermal, and topical, that have been reported to be effective.

Nanocellulose, the Green Biopolymer Trending in Pharmaceuticals: A Patent Review

“…There is a consensus that nanocellulose has been used in biomedical applications in general due to its properties of a low cost, easy availability, biocompatibility, good mechanical properties and low cytotoxicity. It was noticed that NFC and NCC are most applied as an alternative to nanofillers, to provide more resistance in drug delivery applications, while BNC has been commercialized for wound-healing treatments and skin-related issues [ 123 ].…”

Advanced Drug Carriers: A Review of Selected Protein, Polysaccharide, and Lipid Drug Delivery Platforms

“…In the chemistry of obtaining and designing cellulose-based drug carriers, it is crucial to precisely tailor the chemical composition of cellulose to the intended therapeutic targets. Adequate selection of the type of cellulose and its degree of polymerization has a significant impact on the ability of the carriers to efficiently store and release drugs [151][152][153]. Controlling the micro-and macro-molecular structures of cellulose during the preparation process is key to providing the carriers with the desired porosity and ability to interact with the active substance.…”

Biodegradable Polymers in Veterinary Medicine—A Review

“…Although tumor volume was reduced in some cats, concurrent lingual dysfunction occurred, excluding this kind of treatment from veterinary practice. However, further optimization of the applied treatment may make it an interesting minimally invasive option for curing oral, neck, and head cancers in cats and other animals [ 135 ]; Transdermal drug delivery—This involves drug delivery through the skin, and in veterinary medicine, it is a useful alternative to more traditional oral drug administration since it is non-invasive; avoids the gastric route, reducing potential gastric irritation and drug degradation; and has a reduced first-pass metabolism in the liver [ 134 , 136 ]. Cellulose and its derivatives can serve as a base for hydrogels with dispersed active ingredients, which perform better than creams and ointments due to their better adhesion, cooling effect, ease of removal, excellent drug-loading efficiency, and improved drug release.…”

“…Although tumor volume was reduced in some cats, concurrent lingual dysfunction occurred, excluding this kind of treatment from veterinary practice. However, further optimization of the applied treatment may make it an interesting minimally invasive option for curing oral, neck, and head cancers in cats and other animals [ 135 ];…”