Advances in natural polysaccharide/protein-based bioadhesive formulations for the potential application in esophagus:...

The esophagus is susceptible to various injuries or disorders, which can significantly impact quality of life and pose potentially life-threatening risks. The unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of the esophagus present challenges in achieving optimal bioavailability and efficacy during diagnosis and treatment. To address these challenges, polysaccharide- and protein-based bioadhesive formulations have been developed to adhere to esophageal tissue, thereby prolonging residence time and enhancing diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic outcomes. Natural polysaccharides and proteins have garnered attention in the medical field owing to their exceptional properties, including biocompatibility, bioavailability, biodegradability, and low toxicity. A substantial body of research has demonstrated the significant potential of polysaccharides and proteins in clinical applications for the esophagus. The objective of this review is to discuss the structural characteristics and biological activities of various polysaccharides, including chitosan, hyaluronic acid, alginate, cellulose, guar gum, gellan gum, and xanthan gum, as well as proteins such as gelatin and fibrin, and their utilization in esophageal bioadhesive formulations. The practical challenges and prospects associated with implementing polysaccharide and protein-based bioadhesives on the esophagus are also discussed.