Controlled release, polyanhydride carriers

Polyanhydrides are a class of bioerodible polymers that have shown excellent characteristics as drug delivery carriers. The properties of these biomaterials can be tailored to obtain desirable controlled release characteristics. Extensive research in this promising area of biomaterials is the focus of this entry. In the first part of the entry, the chemical structures and synthesis methods of various polyanhydrides are discussed. This is followed by a discussion of the physical, chemical, and thermal properties of polyanhydrides and their effect on the degradation mechanism of these materials. Finally, a description of drug release applications from polyanhydride systems is presented, highlighting their potential in biomedical applications. 

J.P. Jain, S. Modi, A.J. Domb, N. Kumar, Role of polyanhydrides as localized drug carriers, J. Control. Release 103 (2005) 541-563. 

Jain, J.P., Modi, S., Domb, A.J., Kumar, N., 2005. Role of polyanhydrides as localized drug carriers. Journal of Controlled Release 103, 541—563. 

Mathiowitz, E., and Langer, R., 1987, Polyanhydride microspheres as dmg carriers I. Hot-melt microencapsulation, J. Controlled Release 5 13-22. 

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