Abstract:
Purpose: The specific aim of present study was to investigate the biodegradation characteristics of xyloglucan, a natural film- forming polymer. Methods: Both in vitro as well as in vivo methods were used for assessment of the same. The in vitro degradation of xyloglucan film was followed in different fluids such as (simulated body fluid, simulated nasal fluid & simulated lung fluid) at different time intervals (0, 4, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32 & 36) and in vivo by subdermal implantation in rats for up to 30 min. Rate and extent of degradation was followed in terms of film weight loss and swelling degree. Results: Although the rate of in vitro degradation was slow compared to the in vivo, xyloglucan films complete maximum degradation within 36 min following subdermal implantation in rats within 30 min. The films degraded following different rates, in vitro and in vivo, but the mechanism followed was primarily bulk degradation. Conclusions: Xyloglucan demonstrated highly in vivo biodegradable and in vitro degradation. The study provides valuable insight, which may lead to new application of xyloglucan in the field of drug delivery and challenge offers to formulator scientists.

Keywords: Xyloglucan, Swelling Degree, Weight Loss, In Vitro Degradation, In Vivo Biodegration.