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Abstract

Polysaccharides have been finding, in the last decades, very interesting and useful applications in the biomedical and, specifically, in the biopharmaceutical field. Xanthan gum is a natural polysaccharide, produced by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. This polymer displays a number of appealing characteristics for biopharmaceutical applications, among which its high thickening capacity should be highlighted. In this review, we describe critical aspects of xanthan gum, contributing for its role in biopharmaceutical applications. Physicochemical properties, production, as well as strong and effective synergies with other biomaterials are described. The specific biopharmaceutical applications are discussed.
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XANTHAN GUM; ITS BIOPHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS: AN
OVERVIEW
Abdulsalam Alhalmi1*, Nafaa Alzubaidi2, Marwan Altowairi3, Marwan Almoiliqy3 and
Bharti Sharma3
1College of Pharmacy, University of Aden, Yemen. Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
PCTE Group of Institutes, Ludhiana, India.
2Department of pharmacy practice, Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi, India.
3Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, PCTE Group of Institutes, Ludhiana, India.
ABSTRACT
Polysaccharides have been finding, in the last decades, very interesting
and useful applications in the biomedical and, specifically, in the
biopharmaceutical field. Xanthan gum is a natural polysaccharide,
produced by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. This polymer
displays a number of appealing characteristics for biopharmaceutical
applications, among which its high thickening capacity should be
highlighted. In this review, we describe critical aspects of xanthan
gum, contributing for its role in biopharmaceutical applications.
Physicochemical properties, production, as well as strong and effective
synergies with other biomaterials are described. The specific
biopharmaceutical applications are discussed.
KEYWORDS: Controlled release, gelling capacity, xanthan gum, polysaccharides, synergy.
INTRODUCTION
Polymers are widely used in pharmaceutical dosage forms, which include both synthetic as
well as natural polymeric materials.[1] The natural polymers such as natural gums are
biocompatible, biodegradable, cheap and easily available and are preferred to synthetic
polymers because of their low cost, lack of toxicity, availability and non irritant nature.[2] On
the other hand, they have some limitations, such as the highest possibility of immunogenicity
and polymer variability related to both origin and supplier.[3]
WORLD JOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
SJIF Impact Factor 6.647
Volume 7, Issue 1, 1536-1548 Review Article ISSN 2278 4357
Article Received on
18 Nov. 2017,
Revised on 09 Dec. 2017,
Accepted on 30 Dec. 2017,
DOI: 10.20959/wjpps20181-10869
*Corresponding Author
Abdulsalam Alhalmi
College of Pharmacy,
University of Aden,
Yemen. Faculty of
Pharmaceutical Sciences,
PCTE Group of Institutes,
Ludhiana, India.
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Abdulsalam et al. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
The plant based polymers have been studied for their application in different pharmaceutical
dosage forms like matrix controlled systems, microspheres, nanoparticles, film coating
agents, buccal films, viscous liquid formulations like ophthalmic solutions, suspensions,
implants and their applicability and efficacy has been proven. These also have been utilized
as viscosity enhancers, solubilizes, stabilizers, disintegrates, emulsifiers, gelling agents and
bioadhasives, binders in different dosage forms.[4]
The xanthan gum is a high molecular weight hetero polysaccharide gum produced by a pure
culture fermentation of a carbohydrate with the microorganism Xanthamonas campestris.[5]
Xanthan gum is a hetero polysaccharide consisting mainly of repeating unit of
pentasaccharide formed by two glucose units, two mannose units, and one glucuronic acid
unit, in the molar ratio 2.8:2.0:2.0 (Fig.1).[6]
The basic fundamental unit of polysaccharides is the monosaccharide D-glucose although D-
fructose, D-galactose, L-galactose, D-mannose, L-arabinose, and D-xylose. Some
polysaccharides include monosaccharide derivatives in their structure, like the amino sugars
D-galactosamine and D-glucosamine, as well as their derivatives N-acetylmuramic acid and
N-acetylneuraminic acid, and simple sugar acids (iduronic and glucuronic acids). In some
cases, polysaccharides are collectively named for the sugar unit they contain, so glucans are
given for glucose-based polysaccharides, while mannans are given for mannose-based
polysaccharides.[7]
Xanthan is one of the most extensively investigated polysaccharides.It has been widely used
in oral and topical formulations, cosmetics and foods as suspending or stabilizing agent,
thickening, emulsifying, film forming and gelling nature and release control agent in
hydrophilic matrix formulations.[8,9]
This natural polymer has been investigating increased interest in the biopharmaceutical field,
particularly in oral drug delivery. It has been showing its application in the design of drug
delivery systems, providing the delivery of a defined dose, at a predetermined rate, to a
targeted biological site. In this review, critical aspects of xanthan gum are exposed, with
particular discussion on the physicochemical properties that affect its biopharmaceutical
application. The most effective synergies interactions with other polysaccharides are
described and the reported biopharmaceutical applications are explored and discussed.
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Xanthan Gum, Description and Source
Xanthan gum is a natural high molecular weight polysaccharide, produced from the
bacterium Xanthomonas campestris found on cabbage plants.[10] Xanthan gum powder is free
flowing white to cream coloured soluble in hot and cold water, but insoluble in most organic
solvents. Xanthan gum solutions show a high degree of viscosity in comparison with other
polysaccharide solutions even at low concentrations. This property makes it more effective as
thickener and stabilizer. Xanthan gum solutions are highly pseudoplastic but not thixotropic.
The pseudoplasticity of xanthan gum enhances sensory qualities in final products, eases
processing and ensures a good pourability. Xanthan gum solutions are pH-variations
resistant, i.e. they are stable in both acidic and alkaline conditions. In addition, xanthan gum
has thermal stability that makes it superior to most other water soluble polysaccharides.
Xanthan gum is tasteless and does not affect the taste of other food ingredients.[11]
Chemical Structure and Physicochemical Properties
Xanthan gum is a high molecular weight polysaccharide produced by pure culture aerobic
fermentation of carbohydrate with Xanthomonas campestris bacteria.[12] It is a long chained
polysaccharide with large number of trisaccharide side chains. The main chain consists of β-
(1, 4)-linked D-glucose units (Fig.1). The side chains are composed of two mannose units
and one glucuronic acid unit attached with alternate glucose residues of the main chain. The
terminal D-mannose residues may carry a pyruvate function and the distribution of such
group in the chemical structure is dependent on the bacterial strain and the fermentation
conditions. The non-terminal D-mannose unit in the side chain contains an acetyl function.
The anionic property of this polymer is due to the presence of both pyruvic acid and
glucuronic acid groups in the side chain.[13-14] Xanthan gum is a cream colored powder that is
soluble in hot or cold water with high viscosity even at low concentrations. Xanthan gum has
been extensively investigated as a possible polymeric material in diverse floating drug
delivery technology in addition to being used as gelling agent, stabilizing agent, suspending
agent, and viscosity increasing agent.[15] For example, formulation and evaluation of
rosiglitazone maleate[16], acyclovir[17], propranolol hydrochloride[18], and tapentadol
hydrochloride[19] were done using xanthan gum.
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Table 1. Typical physical properties of commercial xanthan gum.[20]
Property
Value
Physical state
Dry, cream-colored powder
Moisture (%)
8-15
Ash (%)
7-12
Nitrogen (%)
0.3- 1.0
Acetate content (%)
1.9-6.0
Pyruvate content (%)
1.0 - 5.7
Monovalent salt (g L-1 )
3.6-14.3
Divalent salt (g L-1 )
0.085-0.17
Viscosity (cp)
13-35
Figure. 1: Chemical structure of xanthan gum.
Production of Xanthan Gum
The biosynthesis of microbial hetero polysaccharides such as xanthan is a complicated
process involving a multi-enzyme system. The initial step in the biosynthesis of xanthan is
the uptake of carbohydrate, which may occur by active transport or facilitated diffusion. This
is followed by phosphorylation of the substrate with a hexokinase enzyme that utilizes
adenosine 5’-triphosphate. The biosynthesis involves conversion of the phosphorylated
substrate to the various sugar nucleotides required for assembly of the polysaccharide
repeating unit through enzymes such as UDP-Glc pyrophosphorylase. UDP-glucose, GDP-
mannose and UDP-glucuronic acids are necessary for the synthesis of xanthan with the
appropriate repeating unit. In the biosynthesis of xanthan gum on the cabbage plant by
xanthomonas campestris, the cabbage provides the carbohydrate substrates, proteins and
minerals for cell growth. In the laboratory conditions or commercial fermentation, carbon
sources, nitrogen sources, trace minerals and pH conditions are provided in a way that
simulates natural conditions.[21,22]
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Compatibility of Xanthan Gum With other Ingredients
Xanthan gum is compatible with most food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredients.
Xanthan gum is stabile in the presence of acids. It can be dissolved directly in many acid
solutions. Xanthan gum solutions have unusually good compatibility and stability in the
presence of most salts. The addition of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium chloride,
increases the viscosity and stability. Also divalent salts like calcium or magnesium have a
similar effect on viscosity with optimum viscosity is reached at salt concentrations above
0.1%. Higher salt concentration levels do not affect the rheological properties any further, nor
do they increase stability of xanthan gum solutions. Most food systems contain the
appropriate amount of salts. Even at high concentrations xanthan gum is compatible with
most salts. Xanthan gum tends to form gels at high pH-levels (pH > 10) in the presence of
high concentrations of divalent cations. Trivalent cations, such as aluminum and iron, form
gels at acid or neutral pH. Gelling may be prevented by high levels of monovalent metal salts.
Xanthan gum is anionic polymer exhibits three desirable properties: high viscosity at low
concentrations, pseudoplasticity; and insensitivity to a wide range of temperature, pH and
electrolyte variations. Because of its special rheological properties, xanthan is widely used in
food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paper, adhesives, paint, textiles, oil and gas industry. The
good flow properties of xanthan, in addition with its stability to salts and extremes of pH
levels, give it a technical advantage over most polymers used in drilling. By mixing different
gums with xanthan gum, varying the ratio and the concentration of the combination, result in
very specific characteristics of the end product may be obtained, e.g. viscosity,
pseudoplasticity, texture and mouth feel. Due to the nature of the sugar linkages as well as to
the presence of side chain substituents on the polysaccharide structure backbone, xanthan
gum is highly resistant to enzymatic degradation. Pure xanthan gum can be safely used in the
presence of most enzymes commonly occurring such as galactomannanases, pectinases,
cellulases, proteases, amylases etc. Xanthan gum is not directly soluble in most organic
solvents. Up to 40 - 50 % of common solvents such as isopropanol, methanol, ethanol or
acetone can be added to aqueous solutions of xanthan gum without precipitation of the
gum.[11,23]
Synergy with Locust Been Gum
Xanthan gum produces high viscosity solutions at low concentration, but it does not naturally
gel at any concentration, being insensitive to a broad range of pH, temperature, and
electrolyte concentration.[24] These weak gel properties are known to be enhanced by the
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presence of certain b-(1, 4) linked polysaccharides, which normally exist in water solution as
random coils and in the condensed phase as stiff, extended ribbons, like the galactomannans.
The synergy between xanthan gum and LBG is the most effective and results in a firm,
thermo reversible gel.[25] A synergic behavior was observed even in dilute gum solution.26
The synergistic interaction between the two polysaccharides was reported by Rocks, he
observing the formation of a thermally reversible gel.[27]
Other studies indicated that the synergistic interaction occurs due to the interaction between
the side chains of xanthan and the backbone of locust been gum as in a lock-key model, in
which one xanthan chain could associate with one, two, or more locust bean gum
molecules.[28] A study using X-ray diffraction suggested that in order for the binding between
both polymers to occur, it required denaturation of xanthan at temperatures exceeding the
helixcoil transition temperature, leading to strong elastic gels. Furthermore, it was reported
that when the two polymers were mixed in the same weight ratio, stronger gels, in terms of
hardness and elastic modulus were obtained. The same study also suggested that the
association interaction between xanthan and locust been gum occurred because of disordered
xanthan chains.[29] In contrast, a work with calorimetry and rheological methods revealed that
the association interaction between the polysaccharides was triggered by xanthan
conformational changes.[30] The interaction between the polymers was later reported to be
mediated by two distinct mechanisms. First mechanism takes place at room temperature,
results in weak gels, and presents little dependence upon the galactose content. The second
mechanism requires heating of the polymeric mixture to significant temperature and results in
stronger gels, which formation is highly dependent upon the specific galactomannan
composition.[31] There are reports on the dependence of gelation upon the temperature of
reaction and the specific mannose /galactose ratio of galactomannan. For low galactose
contents, such as that of locust been gum, interactions have been described at temperatures
usually higher than 45°C.[28] Another study demonstrated that the stability of xanthan helical
structure or xanthan chain flexibility played a critical role in the interaction with locust been
gum. It was shown that the deacetylation and heating of xanthan helical structure facilitated
the intermolecular binding between xanthan and locust been gum. However, a study in dilute
solution conditions suggested that the synergy is a result of a conformational change of the
complex xanthan-locust been gum, in which locust been gum should play a significant
role.[32]
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A more recent work studied the possibility of modulating the gel mechanical properties by
varying the polymeric ratios and the temperature of reaction, xanthan chain conformation
being known to be affected by temperature of reaction. It was observed that a LBG/ xanthan
ratio of 1:1 always produces a gel, while a ratio of 1:3 results in a weak gel at 75°C and a
ratio of 1:9 never results in the formation of a real gel. These results indicated that the
properties of the complex polysaccharide gel might be controlled by varying the preparation
temperature and/or the weight ratio between the two polymers.[33]
As can be seen, information on xanthan gum/locust been gum synergy and gelling
mechanism is varied. In fact, although many efforts continue to elucidate the interaction, with
some recent works providing new evidences, a wide debate is still open in the subject. The
synergy interaction between both polymers is so effective that gels have been proposed in
pharmaceutical applications for retard release purposes and tablet formulations already exist
comprising of this polysaccharides.[34]
Biopharmaceutical Applications of Xanthan Gum
The application of natural polymers in pharmaceutical formulations is extremely varied,
comprising the production of solid monolithic matrix systems, films, implants, beads,
nanoparticles, microparticles, inhalable, and injectable systems. Within these dosage forms,
polymeric materials have different roles such as binders, matrix formers, drug release
modifiers, coatings, viscosity enhancers, stabilizers, emulsifiers, suspending agents,
disintegrators, solubilizers, gelling agents, and bioadhesives. Owing to particular features of
xanthan gum specifically related with its gelling ability and synergies with other
polysaccharides, a promising interest is being observed regarding its biopharmaceutical use.
The properties that enable the application of xanthan gum in pharmaceutical applications are
emulsifying, thickening, stabilising, film forming and gelling nature.[35] In this review paper
we focuses on investigating the application of xanthan gum in different drug carrier systems
and its efficacy in targeted drug delivery.
Liposomes
Chitosan is a natural polymer that is used to increase vesicle stability, in a particular study; a
poly anionic compound xanthan gum is allowed to undergo macromolecular complexation
with a chitosan polycationic compound and is studied for its effectiveness in increasing the
vesicle stability synergistically. The result of study was found that liposomal formulation for
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pulmonary delivery have a positive effect by the liposome coating with polyelectrolyte
complex formed by xanthan gum and chitosan complexation.[36]
Hydrogel: Xanthan gum form superporous hydrogels that are cross linked very lightly in
order to enhance the swelling and absorption ability to a higher extent. Rapid absorption of
water takes place in the macromolecular structure through permeation and capillary action.
Sunny et al. have mentioned the synthesis of super porous hydrogels, using xanthan gum,
hydroxyethylmethacrylate and acrylic acid by free radical graft polymerization method.[37] It
was observed that xanthan gum does not form hydrogels readily but are only formed when
the aqueous solutions are annealed to a particular temperature and cooled suddenly.[38]
Matrix Systems: Xanthan gum is used in gum based sustained release tablets, not only
retards drug release, but can also result in time independent release kinetics with added
advantage of compatibility and inertness.[39] Jackson et al. reported that when xanthan gum
and ethyl cellulose were used in matrix tablets used in colon drug delivery, higher
concentration of xanthan gum showed more drug retarding capability than the formulation
with ethyl cellulose.[40] Sourabh Jain et al. reported that cumulative drug release percent was
decreases with increasing gum concentration. In one study, it was also found out that xanthan
gum showed higher ability to retard the drug release than synthetic hydroxypropyl methyl
cellulose.[41]
Niosomes: Shinde et al. observed that when xanthan gum was used in the preparation of
niosomes result in good spreadability there was change in the particle size also reported
compared to the formulation without using xanthan gum and the niosomal formulation
showed pseudoplastic behaviour. He was also found that the physical stability to be more in
formulation containing xanthan gum and even though at higher temperature there is chance of
enzyme leakage from gels, it was observed that chance of enzyme leakage from gels was less
when the niosomal formulation is converted to gel with the use of xanthan gum. Thus it was
experimentally proved that xanthan gum can be used as a gelling agent in the preparation of
serratiopeptidase noisome gel.[42]
Nanoparticles: Polysaccharide nanoparticles can be synthesised by means of covalent cross
linking, ionic cross linking, poly electrolyte complexation etc.,[43] Pooja et al., investigated on
the usage of xanthan gum as reducing agent in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles. These
nanoparticles are involved in drug delivery because of their size and efficient targeted drug
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release. It was found that the gold nanoparticle synthesized using xanthan gum was non-toxic
and biocompatible in the hemolysis study. They also showed high drug loading, stability and
enhanced cytotoxicity in lung cancer cells.[44] In another a study it was also reported that the
viscoelastic gel formed by the synergistic interaction of xanthan gum and guar gum mixtures
can lead to the stabilisation of micro and nano scale iron particles.[45]
Microspheres: In a study conducted by Deshmukh et al., it was reported that when
hydrophilic gums such as xanthan gum and locust bean gum were used, it helped in extending
the drug release time in microspheres of calcium alginate formed by ionotropic gelation
method. It was observed that the drug entrapment efficiency with increase in the
concentration of hydrophilic polymers. The steps involved in the release of drug from
polymer drug matrix are penetration of solvent in to the matrix, polymer gelation, drug
dissolution and diffusion of drug through the different layers.[46]
CONCLUSION
Xanthan gum has been successfully used by many investigators for various approaches in
drug delivery system. Natural polymer like xanthan gum play vital role in different
formulation of drug delivery system. Different drug carrier systems was developed in order to
improve efficacy in drug delivery system so that degradation of drug during transport, toxic
effects due to rapid release can be avoided and better drug transport to the target sites can be
achieved. This also helps in reducing the side effects associated with conventional drug
delivery techniques. In all the above discussed formulations controlled release,
biocompatibility and biodegradability was observed which makes it convenient to be used in
pharmacological applications. Thus targeted delivery aids not only in maintaining the
therapeutic benefits but also in avoiding the overall toxic effects associated with the
conventional approaches.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The authors confirm that this article content has no conflicts of interest.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Great thanks to the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Aden University, for providing the
required facilities for the completion of this article.
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... Members of this genus are Gram-negative, rod-like, strictly aerobic, and motile, with a polar flagellum (Chaturvedi et al., 2021;Nsengiyumva & Alexandridis, 2022). XG biosynthesis is a complex enzymatic process initiated by the uptake of carbohydrates through active transport or facilitated diffusion, phosphorylation of substrate using hexokinase enzyme by consuming ATP, conversion of the phosphorylated substrate into the sugars required for the assembly of repeating units of heteropolysaccharide by uridine diphosphate-glucose-pyrophosphorylase enzyme, and finally, polymerization of repeating units and secretion (Alhalmi et al., 2018). XG exhibits a linear structure composed of recurring penta-saccharide units (consisting of two glucose, two mannose, and one glucuronic acid), in which β-D-glucose with β-(1-4) bonds are linked to the side chains of the charged trisaccharide (Fig. 3.4) (Riaz et al., 2021). ...
... If XG synthesis occurs naturally by Xanthomonas on the plant, nutrients are supplied by the plant for microbial growth; however, in commercial fermentation, it is necessary to supply carbon, nitrogen, minerals, and environmental conditions for fermentation in a way which is similar to natural conditions (Alhalmi et al., 2018). The use of glucose and sucrose as a source of carbohydrates by bacteria during fermentation increases the ultimate price of gum. ...
Chapter
Over the last few decades, the demand for the commercial production of biomaterials from low-cost, readily available, and abundant sources has gained significant interest. Microbial biomanufacturing is a novel approach in which certain wild-type or genetically engineered microbial strains are exploited for biomaterial production, given that microorganisms can be operated as factories to produce advanced biomaterials with widespread application in agriculture, food, and medicine. Certain microbial cells, particularly lactic acid bacteria, and also Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Corynebacterium spp., Bacillus spp., and Pseudomonas spp., serve as biomanufacturers for the synthesis of high-value intracellular and extracellular biomaterials. This chapter discusses the fabrication of major biomaterials derived from microbial sources including postbiotics, biopolymers (bioplastics), and microbial colorants. Exploration has been undertaken to assess the viability of utilizing these bioactive microbial molecules in sustainable microbial-assisted strategies for applications, such as food processing, packaging, and preservation.
... These solutions are stable over a wide pH range, from acidic to basic conditions, and exhibit thermo-stability, setting them apart from other polysaccharide solutions. Xanthan gum is tasteless and is produced through the aerobic fermentation of pure carbohydrate Xanthomonas campestris [24][25][26][27][28]. ...
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This study comprehensively investigates the rheological properties of self-compacting concrete (SCC) and their impact on critical parameters, including the migration coefficient, penetration depth of chlorine ions, specific electrical resistance, and compressive strength. A total of 43 mix designs were meticulously examined to explore the relationships between these properties. Quantitative analysis employed a backpropagation neural network model with a single hidden layer to accurately predict the resistant and durable characteristics of self-compacting concrete. The optimal number of neurons in the hidden layer was determined using a fitting component selection method, implemented in MATLAB software(2021b). Additionally, qualitative analysis was conducted using sensitivity analysis and expert opinions to determine the priority of research additives. The main contributions of this paper lie in the exploration of SCC properties, the utilization of a neural network model for accurate prediction, and the prioritization of research additives through sensitivity analysis. The neural network model demonstrated exceptional performance in predicting test results, achieving a high accuracy rate using 14 neurons for predicting parameters such as chlorine penetration depth, compressive strength, migration coefficient, and specific electrical resistance. Sensitivity analysis revealed that xanthan gum emerged as the most influential additive, accounting for 43% of the observed effects, followed by nanomaterials at 35% and micro-silica at 21%.
... The broad spectrum of pH values, ionic concentrations, and temperature ranges enhances the efficacy of the substance. The range of its potential applications encompasses a wide variety of fields, including both the pharmaceutical and food sectors [181]. It develops diverse drug delivery modalities, particularly emphasizing oral, nasal, brain, buccal, and other delivery systems. ...
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Cancer is one of the most common lethal diseases and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Effective cancer treatment is a global problem, and subsequent advancements in nanomedicine are useful as substitute management for anti-cancer agents. Nanotechnology, which is gaining popularity, enables fast-expanding delivery methods in science for curing diseases in a site-specific approach, utilizing natural bioactive substances because several studies have established that natural plant-based bioactive compounds can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Bioactive, in combination with nanotechnology, is an exceptionally alluring and recent development in the fight against cancer. Along with their nutritional advantages, natural bioactive chemicals may be used as chemotherapeutic medications to manage cancer. Alginate, starch, xanthan gum, pectin, guar gum, hyaluronic acid, gelatin, albumin, collagen, cellulose, chitosan, and other biopolymers have been employed successfully in the delivery of medicinal products to particular sites. Due to their biodegradability, natural polymeric nanobiocomposites have garnered much interest in developing novel anti-cancer drug delivery methods. There are several techniques to create biopolymer-based nanoparticle systems. However, these systems must be created in an affordable and environmentally sustainable way to be more readily available, selective, and less hazardous to increase treatment effectiveness. Thus, an extensive comprehension of the various facets and recent developments in natural polymeric nanobiocomposites utilized to deliver anti-cancer drugs is imperative. The present article provides an overview of the latest research and developments in natural polymeric nanobiocomposites, particularly emphasizing their applications in the controlled and targeted delivery of anti-cancer drugs.
... Xanthan is used to give fruit pulps and beverages a better texture and appearance as its suspension is maintained and a small application of xanthan in sauces would provide the food with high viscosity [35]. Due to its pseudoplastic behavior, xanthan improves the sensory quality of the final product, good pourability and eases the processing [36]. Xanthan powder is dissolved in cold and hot water but is insoluble in most organic solvents. ...
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Employing aerobic fermentation, Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the genus Xanthomonas produce the high molecular weight natural heteropolysaccharide known as xanthan. It has various amounts of O-acetyl and pyruvyl residues together with D-glucosyl, D-mannosyl, and D-glucuronyl acid residues in a molar ratio of 2:2:1. The unique structure of xanthan allowed its various applications in a wide range of industries such as the food industry, pharmacology, cosmetics and enhanced oil recovery primarily in petroleum. The cultivation medium used in the manufacture of this biopolymer is critical. Many attempts have been undertaken to generate xanthan gum from agro-based and food industry wastes since producing xanthan gum from synthetic media is expensive. Optimal composition and processing parameters must also be considered to achieve an economically viable manufacturing process. There have been several attempts to adjust the nutrient content and feeding method, temperature, pH, agitation and the use of antifoam in xanthan fermentations. Various modifications in technological approaches have been applied to enhance its physicochemical properties which showed significant improvement in the area studied. This review describes the biosynthesis production of xanthan with an emphasis on the importance of the upstream processes involving medium, processing parameters, and other factors that significantly contributed to the final application of this precious polysaccharide. Graphical abstract
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Plant probiotic bacteria (PPBs) have been shown to improve plant growth and health in sustainable agriculture. However, environmental restrictions and competition from native microflora necessitate the using an effective formulation. Encapsulating PPBs has emerged as an approach to enhance their viability and delivery to plants. Xanthan gum (XG), generated by Xanthomonas campestris, is an exo-polysaccharide known for its high viscosity. It can enhance the controlled release of microcapsules for the delivery of PPBs. Although XG has been used to encapsulate food probiotic bacteria, extending it to the agriculture field is an innovative idea. XG may be used in many soils due to its high water solubility and wide pH range. Enclosing probiotic bacteria into XG provides advantages, such as increased survival rate, controlled release, and improved plant efficacy. Additionally, utilizing XG in a co-carrier system alongside other biopolymers improves encapsulation effectiveness and optimizes their release properties. This review article focuses on the characteristics and uses of XG in agriculture. The document focuses on revealing the use of XG combined with other biopolymers in a co-carrier system. It also highlights XG's function in enhancing microcapsule stability and discusses the benefits of using XG as a component in a controlled release system.
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Background Mycophenolate mofetil as an immunosuppressive agent is widely administered in patients with kidney disorders and following organ transplantation. The amounts of xanthan gum and sorbitol, as two excipients of mycophenolate mofetil, are influential on the final quality and stability of the suspension. Objective In this experimental study, we aim to optimize the levels of xanthan gum and sorbitol in the Mycophenolate mofetil powder. Methods A Central composite design was used to prepare the formulations. The amounts of xanthan gum and sorbitol were considered as independent variables while the sedimentation volume (F value) and concentration of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) after preparation and after 3 months of storage at 45 ͦC were considered as dependent variables. The samples were prepared through wet granulation process. Chromatography analysis and determination of F value and API were then performed. Results Analysis of variance showed that the increase in the amounts of xanthan up to 75 mg provided higher F value and better protection of API after 3 months by 98%, while the increase of sorbitol from 10 to 25 g had no significant effect on these variables. Optimized sample composed of 16.69 g sorbitol and 68.81 mg xanthan gum. Predicted error was desirably less than 5%. Conclusion The proposed formulation of mycophenolate mofetil powder for oral suspension with optimum amounts of xanthan gum and sorbitol has good stability. High level of xanthan gum and moderate level of sorbitol are recommended for preparing an optimal product.
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Natural polysaccharides have an important role in pharmaceutical industries and are considered a huge source and importance. Polysaccharides are biopolymers characterized by complex secondary structures performing several roles in plants, animals, and different other microorganisms. As it has versatility such as hydrophilicity, good stability, safety, lack of toxicity, and biodegradability in nature, some of them are extensively used for food packaging, pharmaceutical formulations, and various kind of sustainable and renewable goods in biomedical industries. In this context, we focused on natural polysaccharides from different sources such as plants, animals, algae, and microbes. Here, we concentrate on the chemical structures along with their commercial importance in the pharmaceutical industry. Moreover, a summary of the formulations and their applications in different natural polysaccharides has been highlighted in this review. Therefore, this study might be helpful for the development of not only different pharmaceutical formulations but also advantageous in food and biomedical industries in the future.
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The aim of the present study was to study effect of Xanthan gum and Chitosan in combination on effervescent floating matrix tablet of water soluble analgesic drug. Tapentadol hydrochloride. Tapentadol hydrochloride is a synthetic opioid used as a centrally acting analgesic and effective in both experimental and clinical pain. The half-life of the drug is about 4 hours and oral dose is 50 to 250 mg twice a day. To reduce the frequency of administration and to improve patient compliance, a sustained-release formulation of Tapentadol is desirable. The 32 full factorial design was employed to study effect of Xanthan gum and Chitosan in combination on Tapentadol hydrochloride floating tablets. Sodium bicarbonate was incorporated as a gas-generating agent. Combination of polymers Xanthan gum and Chitosan was used to retard drug release. The concentration of polymers was varied and their effect on floating time, drug content, % drug release after 8 hours, swelling index and hardness of the tablets was studied. The formulation was evaluated using Infrared-red spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry to study drug-excipient compatibility. From the factorial batches, it was observed that formulation containing combination of 20% sodium bicarbonate and 10% citric acid shows optimum floating ability whereas the formulation containing 20% Xanthan gum and 28% Chitosan shows optimum sustained drug release pattern. X ray study of the optimized formulations showed gastro retention for 6 hrs indicating successful floating GRDDS of Tapentadol HCl.
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ABSTRACT In recent years there have been important developments in different dosage forms for existing and newly designed drugs and natural products, and semi-synthetic as well as synthetic excipients often need to be used for a variety of purposes. Gums and mucilages are widely used natural materials for conventional and novel dosage forms. These natural materials have advantages over synthetic ones since they are chemically inert, nontoxic, less expensive, biodegradable and widely available. They can also be modified in different ways to obtain tailor-made materials for drug delivery systems and thus can compete with the available synthetic excipients. Various polymers have been investigated as drug retarding agents, each presenting a different approach to the matrix system. Based on the features of the retarding polymer, hydrophilic polymers are the most suitable for retarding drug release and there is growing interest in using these polymers in su stained drug delivery. This review discusses some of the most important plant-derived polymeric compounds that are used or investigated as release retardant in sustained or controlled release drug delivery systems. KEYWORDS Natural polymer, gums, mucilage, sustained release
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The objective of present study was to develop nonionic surfactant vesicles of proteolytic enzyme serratiopeptidase (SRP) by adapting reverse phase evaporation (REV) technique and to evaluate the viability of SRP niosomal gel in treating the topical inflammation. The feasibility of SRP niosomes by REV method using Span 40 and cholesterol has been successfully demonstrated in this investigation. The entrapment efficiency was found to be influenced by the molar ratio of Span 40 : cholesterol and concentration of SRP in noisome. The developed niosomes were characterized for morphology, particle size, and in vitro release. Niosomal gel was prepared by dispersing xanthan gum into optimized batch of SRP niosomes. Ex vivo permeation and in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy of gel formulation were evaluated topically. SRP niosomes obtained were round in nanosize range. At Span 40 : cholesterol molar ratio 1 : 1 entrapment efficiency was maximum, that is, 54.82% ± 2.08, and showed consistent release pattern. Furthermore ex vivo skin permeation revealed that there was fourfold increase in a steady state flux when SRP was formulated in niosomes and a significant increase in the permeation of SRP, from SRP niosomal gel containing permeation enhancer. In vivo efficacy studies indicated that SRP niosomal gel had a comparable topical anti-inflammatory activity to that of dicolfenac gel.
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In the present investigation an attempt has been made to increase therapeutic efficacy, to reduce frequency of administration and to improve patient compliance by developing a sustained release matrix tablets of isosorbide-5-mononitrate. Sustained release matrix tablets of isosorbide-5-mononitrate were developed by using different drug: polymer ratios, such in F1 (1:0.75), F2 (1:1), F3 (1:1.5), F4 (1:1.75) and F6 (1:2). Xanthan gum was used as matrix former and microcrystalline cellulose as diluent. All the lubricated formulations were compressed, using 8mm flat faced punches. Compressed tablets were evaluated for uniformity of weight, content of active ingredient, friability, hardness, thickness, in vitro dissolution study using basket method and swelling index. Each formulation showed compliance with pharmacopoeial standards. Among all formulations, F5 showed a greater sustained release pattern of drug over a 12 h period with 92.12% of drug being released. The kinetic studies showed that drug release follows the Higuchi model (r(2) =0.9851). Korsemeyer and Peppas equation gave an n-value of 0.4566, which was close to 0.5, indicating that drug release follows the Fickian diffusion. Thus, xanthan gum can be used as an effective matrix former to extend the release of isosorbide-5-mononitrate. No significant difference was observed in the dissolution profile of optimized formulation, using basket and paddle apparatus.
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Iron micro- and nanoparticles used for groundwater remediation and medical applications are prone to fast aggregation and sedimentation. Diluted single biopolymer water solutions of guar gum (GG) or xanthan gum (XG) can stabilize these particles for few hours providing steric repulsion and by increasing the viscosity of the suspension. The goal of the study is to demonstrate that amending GG solutions with small amounts of XG(XG/GG weight ratio 1: 19; 3 g/Lof total biopolymer concentration) can significantly improve the capability of the biopolymer to stabilize highly concentrated iron micro-and nanoparticle suspensions. The synergistic effect between GG and XG generates a viscoelastic gel that can maintain 20 g/L iron particles suspended for over 24 h. This is attributed to (i) an increase in the static viscosity, (ii) a combined polymer structure the yield stress of which contrasts the downward stress exerted by the iron particles, and (iii) the adsorption of the polymers to the iron surface having an anchoring effect on the particles. The XG/GG viscoelastic gel is characterized by a marked shear thinning behavior. This property, coupled with the low biopolymer concentration, determines small viscosity values at high shear rates, facilitating the injection in porous media. Furthermore, the thermosensitivity of the soft elastic polymeric network promotes higher stability and longer storage times at low temperatures and rapid decrease of viscosity at higher temperatures. This feature can be exploited in order to improve the flowability and the delivery of the suspensions to the target as well as to effectively tune and control the release of the iron particles.
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This review has attempted to cover the more important aspects of xanthan. Further information on xanthan can be found in a wide selection of other reviews devoted entirely or partly to the biopolymer. More detailed information on aspects such as the production recovery applications of xanthan is also available. The past few years have seen some valuable contributions to our knowledge of xanthan, notably the correlation of structure with solution properties. However, there still exists some areas where our knowledge of xanthan is not complete. This includes some aspects of the biosynthesis of xanthan and the exact conformation of the biopolymer in solution. There is also plenty of scope for new work on the production of xanthan. The areas fro the commercial application of xanthan should continue to expand and demand for the biopolymer in existing applications is also likely to increase.
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The aim of present was to develop gatroretentive drug delivery system of Rosiglitazone maleate. Floating tablets of Rosiglitazone maleate was developed using gas forming agents, like sodium bicarbonate, tartaric acid and natural gums like Xanthan gum and Guar gum. The prepared tablets evaluated in terms of their precompression parameters, physical characteristics, in vitro release, buoyancy and buoyancy lag time. The formulation optimized for different concentration of natural gums like Xanthan gum and Guar gum. The results of invitro release studies showed that optimized formulation (F6) could sustain drug release (98%) for 12h and remain buoyant for 12h. The prepared tablets were evaluated in terms of their precompression parameters, physical characteristics, in vitro release, buoyancy, buoyancy lag-time. The formulations were optimized for the different concentrations of Xanthan gum and Guar gum. The results of the in vitro release studies showed that the optimized formulation (F6) could sustain drug release (98%) for 12 h and remain buoyant for 12 h. The optimized formulation was subjected to various kinetic release investigations and it was found that the mechanism of drug release was predominantly diffusion with a minor contribution from polymeric relaxation. Optimized formulation (F6) showed no significant change in physical appearance, drug content, buoyancy lag time or in vitro dissolution study after storage at 45 °C/75% RH for three months.
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Polymers such as hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, pectin, carrageenan and guar gum have wide application in the pharmaceutical industry, and many techniques in polymer characterization are performed with the polymer molecules in aqueous solution; this is because the thermodynamic properties of polymer solutions can be readily measured and the results interpreted in terms of the size and structure of the macromolecules, thus enabling characterization of the polymer. The authors address some important properties and practical applications of water-soluble polymers.
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Matrix tablets were prepared using blends of xanthan gum (XG) and ethylcellulose (EC). Metronidazole was used as a model drug. The ability of the prepared matrices to retard drug release in the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and to undergo enzymatic hydrolysis by the colonic bacteria was evaluated. For this, drug release studies were carried out in the presence and absence of rat cecal content. The overall rate of release of metronidazole from ethylcellulose matrices was significantly higher than from Xanthan gum matrices. These results indicate that XG has higher drug retarding ability than ethylcellulose. Formulations of the model drugs containing 40 % of XG followed zero order kinetics via anomalous or non-fickian release mechanism whereas that containing 30 % XG followed first order kinetics via fickian diffusion. Formulations containing mixture of polymers followed higuchi kinetics via fickian diffusion. Presence of XG alone or in combination retarded the initial release of drugs from the tablets due to high swelling, which made them more vulnerable to digestion by the microbial enzymes in the colon. Optimum release was observed with metronidazole formulation containing XG alone (formulations containing Xanthan gum 30% and XG 40 % respectively) and in combination (formulation containing XG 22.5%:EC 7.5 %) Significance difference was observed between drug release in dissolution medium with and without rat cecal contents for the optimum batches of metronidazole tablets (P<0.05). Key Words: xanthan, Ethylcellulose, metronidazole, cecal content, matrix tablets.