Unveiling cyclodextrin conjugation as multidentate excipients: An exploratory journey across industries

The discovery of branched molecules like dextrin by Schardinger in 1903 marked the inception of cyclodextrin (CD) utilization, catalyzing its journey from laboratory experimentation to widespread commercialization within the pharmaceutical industry. CD, a cyclic oligosaccharide containing glucopyranose units, acts as a versatile guest molecule, forming inclusion complexes (ICs) with various host molecules. Computational studies have become instrumental in elucidating the intricate interactions between β-CD and guest molecules, enabling the prediction of binding energy, forces, affinity, and complex stability. The computational approach has established robust correlations with experimental outcomes, enhancing our understanding of CD-mediated complexation phenomena. This comprehensive review delves into the CD based Inclusion complex (CDIC) formation and a myriad of components, including drug molecules, amino acids, vitamins, and volatile oils. These complexes find applications across diverse industries, ranging from pharmaceuticals to nutraceuticals, food, fragrance, and beyond. In the pharmaceutical realm, β- CDICs offer innovative solutions for enhancing drug solubility, stability, and bioavailability, thus overcoming formulation challenges associated with poorly water-soluble drugs. Furthermore, the versatility of CDs extends beyond pharmaceuticals, with applications in the encapsulation of phytoactive compounds in nutraceuticals and the enhancing flavor, aroma in food and fragrance industries. This review underscores the pivotal role of CDs conjugation in modern drug delivery systems, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches that integrate computational modeling with experimental validation. As the pharmaceutical landscape continues to evolve, CDs-based formulations stand poised to drive innovation and address the ever-growing demand for efficacious and patient-friendly drug delivery solutions.