Pharmaceutical applications of lignin-derived chemicals and lignin-based materials: linking lignin source and processing with clinical indication

Abstract Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant bioresources on Earth. Over recent decades, various valorisation techniques have been developed to produce value-added products from cellulosic and hemicellulosic fractions this biomass. Lignin third major component accounting for 10–30% (w/w). However, it currently remains a largely unused fraction due its recalcitrance complex structure. The increase in global demand lignocellulosic biomass, energy chemical production, increasing amount waste lignin available. Approaches date valorizing renewable but heterogeneous resource mainly focused production materials fine chemicals. Greater value could be gained by developing higher pharmaceutical applications which would help improve integrated biorefinery economics. In review, different extraction methods, such as organosolv ionic liquid, properties potential extracted building blocks are first summarized with respect use. review then discusses many advances made regarding medical or therapeutic lignin-derived antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor compounds controlled drug delivery. aim draw out link between source processing clinical applications. We highlight four key areas future research if become commercially viable. These relate availability technologies purification specific compounds, enhancements process yield, progression human trials.