Polysaccharide-based hydrogels for microencapsulation of bioactive compounds: A review

Abstract

Natural polymer hydrogels are gaining a lot of interest because of their high biocompatibility, nontoxicity, easy gelation, and functionalization. Polysaccharide-hydrogels, which are employed in a variety of sectors, may alter volume, phase, and structure in response to external stimuli. The delivery technique based on polysaccharides and the release of bioactive substances may have an effect on the gastrointestinal system. The regulated release of bioactive substances encapsulated in core materials is critical in delivering compounds to the target. The releasing property is largely influenced by the polymer's encapsulation efficiency and affinity for bioactive compounds. The most basic method of trapping bioactive compounds inside the polysaccharide hydrogel matrix results in a perfect situation of prolonged and smooth release. The polysaccharide material is readily accessible, and its biocompatibility makes it an excellent active component encapsulation medium. The biochemical phase shift and surface flexibility of the hydrogels in response to external stimuli cause the material to release bioactive components. This study highlights the encapsulation efficiency of diverse polysaccharide hydrogels incorporating different bioactive compounds obtained through various extraction methods, and explores their applicability in various fields.