Unlocking The Potential Of Natural Polymers: A Comparative Study For Innovative Drug Delivery Systems

This study aims to characterize and compare four biopolymers - pectin, guar gum, xanthan gum, and sodium alginate - for their potential use in drug delivery systems by evaluating their hydrophilicity, pH sensitivity, and thermosensitivity. Biopolymer films were prepared and subjected to water absorption tests for hydrophilicity, gravimetric analysis in varying pH conditions for pH sensitivity, and weight change measurements after heat exposure for thermosensitivity. Each test was conducted in five trials to ensure reliability. Pectin demonstrated the highest responsiveness across all tests, showing rapid water absorption (6.46 seconds), significant pH sensitivity (0.53g weight change in acidic conditions), and high thermosensitivity (0.378g weight change). Guar gum showed moderate responsiveness, while xanthan gum and sodium alginate exhibited the most stability across varying conditions. Pectin's high responsiveness suggests suitability for smart, multi-stimuli-responsive systems. Guar gum's moderate responsiveness indicates potential for controlled release formulations. The stability of xanthan gum and sodium alginate makes them ideal for applications requiring consistent drug release in diverse physiological environments. This study offers a comprehensive, comparative analysis of four widely used biopolymers, filling a gap in the existing literature. The results provide a foundation for developing tailored, sustainable drug delivery systems, contributing to the advancement of personalized medicine and environmentally friendly pharmaceutical practices