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Published on: August 16, 2021
Natural carriers for application in tuberculosis treatment
1Centre for Molecular and Structural Biomedicine/Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal.
Natural particulate carriers, like polysaccharides and lipids, offer a promising solution to improve tuberculosis (TB) treatment compliance by enabling targeted, sustained drug delivery and reducing side effects. These materials enhance therapeutic efficacy and patient adherence.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Biomaterials Science
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of preventable global mortality, with treatment failure often stemming from poor patient compliance due to prolonged therapy and severe side effects.
- Current treatment regimens necessitate improved drug delivery systems to enhance patient adherence and therapeutic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review natural particulate carriers, specifically polysaccharides and lipids, developed for tuberculosis therapy.
- To discuss the effectiveness of these natural carriers based on their composition and potential for targeted, sustained drug release.
- To explore the broader potential of natural materials in improving tuberculosis treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review focusing on natural polymers (polysaccharides and lipids) utilized in nano- and microparticle drug delivery systems for tuberculosis.
- Analysis of the composition and effectiveness of these natural particulate carriers in enhancing antimicrobial agent delivery.
- Discussion of the advantages of natural materials, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and cost-effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Natural polymers, particularly polysaccharides and lipids, are effective matrix materials for developing nano- and microparticle drug carriers for tuberculosis.
- These carriers facilitate targeted and sustained release of anti-TB agents, potentially reducing dosing frequency and associated side effects.
- The effectiveness of these natural carriers is influenced by their specific composition and formulation.
Conclusions:
- Natural particulate carriers represent a viable and advantageous approach to overcoming challenges in tuberculosis treatment, primarily by improving drug delivery and patient compliance.
- Further research into natural materials for drug delivery holds significant promise for advancing tuberculosis therapy.
- Key factors requiring further investigation include optimizing carrier design and ensuring long-term efficacy and safety.
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