Characterization of Acid Treated Porcine Mucin and its Effects on Bioadhesion

Polymers of various sources, whether of synthetic or natural origin continue to find increased applications in drug delivery formulations. Attempts to improve the functionality of these polymers have led to their modifications. Modified forms of some polymers have been reported to exhibit improved properties and the dosage forms formulated with them showing superior performance when compared with those of the unmodified form. Examples of some products that have undergone modification resulting in improved modified products includes cellulose and chitin. The incorporation of a sodium carboxymethyl group onto the cellulose backbone or the acid treatment of α-cellulose have resulted in sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and microcrystalline cellulose, respectively while the alkaline treatment of chitin have resulted in chitosan. These modifications have sometimes resulted in the total change of the polymer properties. Mucin, a bioadhesive polymer of natural origin has been identified as useful material in drug formulations. It is highly abundant in human and animal tissues, hence it is biocompatible, non-toxic and easily