Potential for Application of Lignin Based Micro/Nanostructures as a Micro/Nanocarrier in the Controlled Release Systems: A Review

Background: A promising strategy is to apply biodegradable and biocompatibility lignin micro/nanoparticles (LMPs/LNPs) as carriers or coating materials for biological active agent delivery in agriculture medicine and pharmaceuticals. Controlled release systems (CRSs) based on LMPs/LNPs are suitable systems to target specific tissues, cells, or plant roots by taking advantage of the unique properties of LMPs/LNPs. Methods: This review discusses changes in the properties of LNPs caused by different parameters in the synthesis method, such as the type of biologically active agent, loading/release method, modification method, encapsulation efficiency, and release rate of the CRSs based on LMPs/LNPs. Results: Research shows that during the LMPs/LNPs synthesis, nanospheres with a porous surface, nanocapsules, or hollow nanospheres with excellent stability and chemical properties are produced, which causes high loading capacity and reduced release rates of active agents. Moreover, the advantages and technical challenges of lignin application as a micro/ nanocarrier were investigated. Conclusion: Finally, several suggestions for the future trend of research and development were recommended.