Polymer Matrices for Reversible Thermogelling Hydrogels: Principles, Fabrication, and Drug Delivery Prospects.

Area of Science:

• Polymer Science
• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Thermosensitive polymers form "smart" hydrogels that transition from sol to gel at physiological temperatures.
• These systems are crucial for targeted in situ drug delivery applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review modern thermosensitive polymer systems for in situ drug delivery.
• To analyze polymer classes, their properties, and pharmaceutical development risks.
• To discuss evaluation methods for critical quality attributes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of synthetic and natural thermosensitive polymer matrices.
• Analysis of factors influencing rheological properties and phase transition.
• Discussion of in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo evaluation techniques.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of key thermosensitive matrices like poloxamers, PLGA-PEG, chitosan, and xyloglucan.
• Systematization of advantages, disadvantages, and pharmaceutical development risks.
• Highlighting the importance of understanding drug-excipient-polymer interactions.

Conclusions:

• Informed selection of polymer matrices and composition optimization are vital for successful pharmaceutical development.
• Standardized and biologically relevant evaluation methods are needed for reproducible preclinical studies.
• Thermosensitive polymer systems offer significant potential for advanced drug delivery strategies.