Preparation of galactomannan beads for pharmaceutical applications

Preparation of spherical beads of depolymerised, cationic, anionic and native guaran polymers has been carried out by using Syringe Extrusion Method. Variables affecting bead formation were identified and optimised. Beads of native and depolymerised guaran were earlier used in gel filtration chromatography, affinity media for lectins, and immobilization of biologically active molecules, while the beads of cationic and anionic guaran are found suitable as ion-exchangers and in chiral chromatographic column packing. Besides chromatography, polysaccharide beads have been used for making sustained release drug formulations, where the beads should be soluble or dispersible in water. Since there is no cross-linking involved in this method, these beads are water soluble and are suitable for use as carrier for drugs.