Chemically Modified Alginate-Based Hydrogel-Matrices in Drug Delivery

The alginate is a biopolymer consisting of α-L-guluronic acid (G) and β-D-mannuronic acid (M) residues. This biomaterial has demonstrated considerable potential and adaptability in the field of controlled drug delivery. The unique physicochemical properties of alginate, such as its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to form stable hydrogels in the presence of divalent cations, make it an ideal candidate for the development of drug delivery systems. The chemical modification of alginate has significantly increased its potential, allowing the development of matrices with improved properties and distinct functionalities. Chemically modified alginates have demonstrated increased affinity for hydrophobic drugs, controlled and sustained release, and improved cell and tissue adhesion. The most investigated drug delivery systems based on this biopolymer are alginate hydrogels, microspheres, nanoparticles, and porous scaffolds. These systems have been successfully applied in the oral delivery of proteins and peptides, wound healing, tissue regeneration, and cancer therapy. Recent advances in the clinical application of alginate include the development of wound dressings, growth factor delivery systems, and cell therapies for the treatment of degenerative diseases. Therefore, chemically modified alginate represents a versatile and promising alternative for the design of controlled drug delivery systems with great potential in various biomedical applications.