Polysaccharide-based platforms for nasal delivery: design, features, and perspectives

BackgroundPolysaccharides acceded by the Food and Drug Administration are among the most exploitable polymers for fabricating nasally applied vehicles containing therapeutically active molecules. Such delineation can revolutionize brain targeting, localized or systemic prospects, and improve immunity, including anti-SARS-CoV-2. Their successful implementation relies on their biocompatibility, biodegradability, muco-adhesion and penetration enhancement, and targetability traits.Area coveredThis review highlights the utilization of various polysaccharides as integral components in formulating nasally deliverable platforms, including nanoparticles, microparticles, in situ gels, and nasal inserts. Data from earlier works were considered to summarize the source and features of polysaccharides, derivatization, and the outcomes of the delivery systems in the nasal delivery arena. Moreover, we highlighted the potential fabrication of carriers based on compositionally modified surfaces using polysaccharides or hybrid complex formation, and their assay and outcomes. Issues related to large-scale production and efficacy in clinical practice were addressed.Expert opinionCurrent advances in polysaccharide-based vehiculation for nasal applications is highly satisfying and could have promising preclinical prospects. Based on their abundance, safety, delivery to the desired site, and applicable dose, these delivery platforms must be studied further. Specifically, ongoing efforts to design nasal vaccines to address the continuously emerging respiratory viruses requires thorough understanding of storage conditions and toxicological profiles. The price of medical devices and clinical approval measures must also be considered. Collectively, more extensive research is required to improve the clinical translation and commercialization of these polymers.