Pharmaceutical Development and Technology

Biodegradable Polymer Drug Delivery Systems for Controlled Release Design and Translational Development

Biodegradable polymer-based drug delivery systems have become central to modern pharmaceutical development due to their ability to provide controlled release, improve drug stability, and enhance therapeutic efficiency. These materials degrade into biocompatible products within the body, enabling safe elimination while maintaining sustained drug levels over extended periods. The design of such systems requires a deep understanding of polymer chemistry, degradation behavior, and drug–polymer interactions, which collectively determine release kinetics and therapeutic performance. Controlled release systems based on biodegradable polymers offer significant advantages in reducing dosing frequency, minimizing side effects, and improving patient compliance. Materials such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, and chitosan are widely explored for developing nano- and micro-scale carriers. Their physicochemical properties, including molecular weight, crystallinity, and hydrophilicity, play a critical role in modulating drug encapsulation and release profiles. Engineering strategies such as surface modification, functionalization, and stimuli-responsive design enable precise control over drug delivery behavior.

This special issue focuses on the design, formulation, and characterization of biodegradable polymer drug delivery systems with emphasis on controlled release mechanisms and translational development. Contributions that establish clear relationships between material properties, formulation parameters, and drug release performance are particularly encouraged. Experimental and computational studies that provide insight into degradation kinetics, diffusion mechanisms, and polymer–drug interactions are of high interest. The issue also highlights translational aspects, including scalability, reproducibility, and in vitro–in vivo correlation. Studies addressing pharmacokinetics, safety, and clinical adaptability are welcome when supported by strong formulation or material design insights. The aim is to bridge the gap between laboratory-scale innovation and practical pharmaceutical application, supporting the development of reliable and effective drug delivery technologies. Potential topics included, but not limited, 

• Design and synthesis of biodegradable polymer drug delivery systems
• Controlled release mechanisms in polymer-based formulations
• Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) systems for sustained drug delivery
• Surface modification and functionalization of polymer carriers
• Stimuli-responsive biodegradable polymer drug delivery systems
• Nano- and micro-carriers for targeted drug delivery
• Polymer degradation kinetics and drug release behavior
• In vitro–in vivo correlation in controlled release systems
• Scale-up and manufacturing of polymer-based drug delivery systems
• Pharmacokinetics and safety evaluation of biodegradable polymer carriers