Cyclodextrins (for DDS) (159)

Cyclodextrin (CD) plays a significant role in drug delivery systems (DDS) due to its distinctive structure and functionality. It is a cyclic oligosaccharide formed by D-pyranose glucose units linked through α-1,4-glycosidic bonds and typically consists of 6, 7, or 8 glucose units, known as α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, and γ-cyclodextrin, respectively. With its unique cylindrical shape, the interior of cyclodextrin's cavity is hydrophobic, while the exterior is hydrophilic. This structural feature allows cyclodextrin to encapsulate various organic and inorganic small molecules, forming inclusion complexes. As a result, it can modify the properties of these molecules, significantly enhancing their solubility, bioavailability, and drug-targeting capabilities.