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Updated: May 7, 2026
07:24
Author Spotlight: Advancing Therapeutics with Biocompatible Sodium Alginate Hydrogel Microspheres
Published on: June 7, 2024
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Advancement in Sodium Alginate-Based Drug Delivery Systems: Applications and Future Prospects
Anjali Kumari1, Bonthu Varunteja1, Satyajit Mohanty2
1Team Photonics & Metabolics, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, 835215, India.
AAPS Pharmscitech
|May 5, 2026
Summary
Sodium alginate (SA), a natural polymer from seaweed, is a versatile excipient for controlled drug delivery. Its unique hydrogel properties enable effective encapsulation and prolonged therapeutic effects in various pharmaceutical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Pharmaceutical Technology
Background:
- Sodium alginate (SA), a natural polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed, possesses favorable biocompatible and biodegradable properties.
- SA has been utilized for over 50 years in pharmaceutical formulations as a versatile excipient.
- Its ability to form hydrogels via ionotropic gelation with calcium ions is key to its application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structural and physicochemical characteristics of sodium alginate.
- To highlight the diverse pharmaceutical and biomedical applications of SA.
- To discuss recent innovations and future potential of SA in drug delivery systems.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on sodium alginate.
- Analysis of SA's chemical structure and properties (e.g., monomer composition, glycosidic linkages).
- Examination of SA's use in various dosage forms (capsules, tablets, liposomes, microspheres) and delivery routes (ocular, oral).
Main Results:
- SA's structure, composed of α-L-guluronic and β-D-mannuronic acid units, facilitates the formation of strong, porous hydrogels.
- Ionotropic gelation with calcium ions enables efficient encapsulation of drugs and enzymes for controlled release.
- SA hydrogels are effective in ocular and oral drug delivery systems, providing prolonged therapeutic effects.
Conclusions:
- Sodium alginate is a valuable, multifunctional biomaterial for advanced drug delivery systems.
- Its unique hydrogel-forming capability and favorable properties support its continued use and innovation in pharmaceuticals and beyond.
- Further research into SA holds promise for developing next-generation therapeutic delivery platforms.
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