Controlled Drug Delivery: The Role of Self-Assembling Multi-Task Excipients

In complex macromolecules, minor modifications can generate major changes, due to self-assembling capacities of macromolecular or supramolecular networks. <i>Controlled Drug Delivery</i> highlights how the multifunctionality of several materials can be achieved and valorized for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical applications. Topics covered in this comprehensive book include: the concept of self-assembling; starch and derivatives as pharmaceutical excipients; and chitosan and derivatives as biomaterials and as pharmaceutical excipients. Later chapters discuss polyelectrolyte complexes as excipients for oral administration; and natural semi-synthetic and synthetic materials. Closing chapters cover protein-protein associative interactions and their involvement in bioformulations; self-assembling materials, implants and xenografts; and provide conclusions and perspectives.<br><br><ul><li>Offers novel perspectives of a new concept: how minor alterations can induce major self-stabilization by cumulative forces exerted at short and long distances</li><li>Gives guidance on how to approach modifications of biopolymers for drug delivery systems and materials for implants</li><li>Describes structure-properties relationships in proposed excipients, drug delivery systems and biomedical materials</li></ul>