Recent Advances in Mucoadhesive Interface Materials, Mucoadhesion Characterization, and Technologies

Abstract

Mucoadhesion is an extremely important field of adhesion science and the comprehensive understanding and modulation of mucoadhesion can lead to lifesaving materials and technologies. For instance, deadly cases of COVID‐19 (SARS‐CoV‐2) cytokine storm are associated with viral adhesion and overproduction of mucus, which obstructs the airways. Mucin is the key polymeric compound that is known as a family of high molecular weight, heavily glycosylated proteins in epithelial tissues. Mucoadhesion can occur in many different ways such as receptor specific and charge interactions, covalent or noncovalent bonds. New mucin‐mimic polymers that replicate its beneficial traits can prevent biofilm formation and biofouling not only in biotechnology but also in membrane technologies. This review addresses the latest understandings related to mucin's role in wet adhesion considering different physiological conditions and shows how this translates into interfacial polymer adhesion. Advances in mucoadhesion measurement techniques including the rheological aspects of polymer–mucin adhesive interactions are presented. Specific mucoadhesive systems are discussed such as hydrogel mucoadhesion, catechol/dopamine functionalization, and polymeric nanoparticles. This overview may expand the current understanding of mucoadhesion between soft materials but also contributes to elastocapillary phenomena in soft materials design and applications such as new membranes, drugs, pharmaceutical devices, and lubricated surfaces.

Bioadhesive eutectogels supporting drug nanocrystals for long-acting delivery to mucosal tissues

“…Next, we explored the adhesion properties of Egel-20-NCs to mucin protein, finding an excellent adhesive strength of ≈40 ​± ​7 ​kPa ( Fig. 7 D), outperforming other recently reported mucoadhesive hydrogels [ [43] , [44] , [45] ].…”

Allogeneic Bone Impregnated with Biodegradable Depot Delivery Systems for the Local Treatment of Joint Replacement Infections: An In Vitro Study

“…The adhesion of the formulations to the bone grafts was measured with a tensile test on an absolute rheometer. This test methodology is well established and allows key test variables to be set and maintained, particularly the temperature, contact time, consolidation force, and speed of detachment [ 32 ]. Figure 6 shows a comparison of the characteristics used in our work to evaluate the bioadhesion of depot formulations.…”

Advances in Fibrin-Based Materials in Wound Repair: A Review

“…As discussed in previous reports, the characterizations of not only pure fibrin fiber mechanical properties, but also biomedical materials that contain fibrin fibers such as films, gels, or hydrogels and mucoadhesives, are equally important for the longevity of wound treatment and drug release [ 38 , 91 , 162 , 163 , 164 , 165 ]. The importance of mechanical properties of materials for chronic wound care has recently been acknowledged as vital for the biochemical function of these materials [ 166 ].…”