A Review of Xyloglucan: Self-Aggregation, Hydrogel Formation, Mucoadhesion and Uses in Medical Devices

The present paper reviews the self-aggregation, gel-forming and adsorption properties of xyloglucan (XG), its main applications as a medical device for wound dressings, mucosal protection ocular lubrication, well uses an excipient. XG is branched polysaccharide composed central backbone D-glucose units linked by ?(1?4)-glycosidic bonds, decorated with D-xylose through ?(1?6) glycosidic some D-galactose anchored to these via ?(1?2) bonds. forms self-aggregates hierarchically ordered morphology in aqueous solutions, leading formation nanofibers. Consequently, hydrogel-forming polymer able retain large amounts water. Inside human digestive tract, enzymatically degalactosylated, but xylose side chains remains stable until excretion. Degalactosylated undergoes fully reversible sol–gel transition, forming hydrogels between upper lower critical temperatures. adsorbs on intestinal mucosa creates diffusion barrier that reduces permeability also prevents bacterial infections reducing their infiltration. Therefore, orally administered considered protectant.