Chemical Degradation of Peptides and Proteins in PLGA: A Review of Reactions and Mechanisms

Biodegradable poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) polymers have been studied extensively for the controlled release of peptide and protein drugs. In addition to polymer biodegradation, chemical degradation of the incorporated peptide/protein has also been reported in PLGA devices, and the role of the polymer in promoting these reactions has been debated. This review summarizes the peptide/protein chemical degradation reactions that have been reported in PLGA systems and their mechanisms. Reported methods for stabilizing peptides and proteins in PLGA devices are also discussed.