RT Journal Article ID 0d4ebde80029e2b5 A1 Basavaraj, K. H. A1 Navya, M.A. A1 Johnsy, George A1 Siddaramaiah, A1 Rashmi, R. T1 Biopolymers as Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems in Dermatology Therapy JF Critical Reviews™ in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems JO CRT YR 2010 FD 2010-05-21 VO 27 IS 2 SP 155 OP 185 K1 biomaterials K1 biopolymers K1 biodegradable polymers K1 drug delivery K1 transdermal drug delivery AB The skin is considered a complex organ for drug delivery because of its structure. Drug delivery systems are designed for the controlled release of drugs through the skin into the systemic circulation, maintaining consistent efficacy and reducing the dose of the drugs and their related side effects. Transdermal drug delivery represents one of the most rapidly advancing areas of novel drug delivery. The excellent impervious nature of the skin is the greatest challenge that must be overcome for successful drug delivery. Today, polymers have been proven to be successful for long-term drug delivery applications as no single polymer can satisfy all of the requirements. Biopolymers in the field of dermal application are rare and the mechanisms that affect skin absorption are almost unknown. Biopolymers are widely used as drug delivery systems, but as such the use of biopolymers as drug delivery systems in dermatologic therapy is still in progress. Commonly used biopolymers include hydrocolloids, alginates, hydrogels, polyurethane, collagen, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), chitosan, proteins and peptides, pectin, siRNAs, and hyaluronic acid. These new and exciting methods for drug delivery are already increasing the number and quality of dermal and transdermal therapies. This article reviews current research on biopolymers and focuses on their potential as drug carriers, particularly in relation to the dermatologic aspects of their use. PB Begell House LK https://www.dl.begellhouse.com/journals/3667c4ae6e8fd136,084c773c4be05381,0d4ebde80029e2b5.html