Sanjana Eranki

Oral administration is currently the most common form of drug delivery to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This, however, presents numerous challenges as shown by the failure of efficient drug absorption. Thelimitations of oral drug delivery include low stability and solubility as the drug is passed through the body, which contributes to reduced permeability across intestinal membranes. Even when encapsulated into carrier systems, controlled release through the lining of the GI tract is difficult to accomplish due to the inability of these vehicles to penetrate the intestinal membrane barrier. Drug delivery through the outer lining of the lower GI tract presents a route for increased bioavailability and prolonged retention time, allowing greater amounts of the drug to reach systemic circulation. This method also provides the greatest contact of the drug with the absorption surface, improving the chances of permeability. Additionally, administration through the outer lining bypasses the harsh enzymes of the stomach. In order to achieve more targeted drug delivery to the lower GI tract, we aim to design a bioadhesive hydrogel that can encapsulate drug crystals for controlled release with high retention time. Because of their non-toxic quality, hydrogels are promising vehicles for drug delivery. Made out of modified natural materials, this adhesive hydrogel can be controlled to precise locations on the lower GI tract. Thus, this system reduces harm to surrounding tissue in the body while overcoming challenges presented by traditional methods of delivery.

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