ABSTRACT
There is an increasing interest in using biopolymeric materials for medical applications due to their biocompatibility, ability to support attachment and growth of cells, deliver drugs to targeted organs, and easy degradability. Unlike metals or synthetic polymers, biopolymeric materials have limited risk of immunogenic response and accumulation in the body. Also, biopolymers are readily available and easily modifi able for specifi c applications. Proteins and polysaccharides are the two most common biopolymers. Although proteins are preferred over polysaccharides, proteins have several limitations. Despite limitations, polysaccharides have unique properties and several advantages that make them useful for medical applications. Compared to proteins, polysaccharides are more stable and provide biomaterials with required mechanical properties and aqueous stability. In addition, polysaccharides are more readily available than proteins and can better withstand processing conditions and can be more easily made into various shapes and sizes.
