Konjac Glucomannan in Cancer Therapeutics: Engineering Controlled Release System for 5-Fluorouracil

Abstract: 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) has been a prominent chemotherapeutic agent for several solid tumors, but its application is hindered by rapid systemic clearance, dose-limiting toxicity, and suboptimal tumor response. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) is a natural, biocompatible polysaccharide that has proved to be a promising carrier in the development of controlled-release drug delivery systems. This review addresses recent developments in KGM-based systems, particularly designed to deliver 5-FU. It focuses on myriad aspects of KGM, such as its molecular weight, acetylation, crosslinking density, degradation behaviour, control drug loading, and release kinetics. Mechanistic evidence of increased chemosensitivity, as observed in various carcinoma models, has been succinctly elucidated. Moreover, this review outlines the potential of KGM-engineered systems to enhance 5-FU therapy by highlighting the concepts of formulation design along with innovative release- control strategies that translate its therapeutic potential into improved clinical outcomes.