BIOADHESIVE MICROSPHERES: A NOVEL STRATEGY FOR TARGETED AND SUSTAINED DRUG DELIVERY

Abstract

Bioadhesive microspheres (MSs) have emerged as a promising and versatile drug delivery system due to their controlled release behavior, targeted delivery capability, and improved bioavailability. Their ability to adhere to mucosal tissues allows for prolonged residence time and localized drug action, which enhances therapeutic efficiency while minimizing systemic side effects. These microspheres are especially beneficial in transmucosal delivery routes, including nasal, buccal, ocular, and vaginal applications. The incorporation of bioadhesive properties into microspheres overcomes the limitation of brief mucosal retention and enhances patient compliance. Various polymers, both natural and synthetic, are employed in their fabrication, using advanced techniques such as solvent evaporation, spray drying, and phase inversion. They also offer applications in vaccine delivery, monoclonal antibody targeting, chemoembolization, and diagnostic imaging. Despite current limitations like manufacturing scalability and control over polymer degradation, bioadhesive MSs continue to evolve, integrating with nanotechnology and gene therapy to offer personalized therapeutic approaches. Thus, bioadhesive microspheres represent a significant advancement in pharmaceutical delivery, with the potential to revolutionize modern therapeutics.