HYALURONAN IN DRUG DELIVERY

Biological and chemical properties of hyaluronan qualify this macromolecule as a prospective carrier of drugs particularly for local application and/or targeting to lymphatic system. It is immunologically inert and safely degraded in lysosomes of many cells. Thus, it can be used in broad selection of molecular sizes. It also provides suitable chemical groups for spacer-drug side chain attachment. Nevertheless, several points call for experimental checking, viz the effect of substituents on the immunology, receptor affinity and degradation. Pharmacokinetics as affected by M(r) and degree of substitution should be also monitored after various ways of administration.