Evaluating Cashew Tree Gum as A Potential Vaccine Carrier: Purification, Phytochemical Analysis and Biocompatibility Assessment

Abstract

Effective vaccine delivery is crucial for controlling infectious diseases. Natural polymers are increasingly considered in drug delivery systems due to their low cost, biocompatibility, biodegradability, safety and dose sparing. Despite these advantages, there is limited information on their use in veterinary applications. This study explores cashew tree gum (CTG) as a potential vaccine carrier, especially in veterinary setting, focusing on its purification, phytochemical profile, and biocompatibility. Cashew tree gum was harvested from incisions in the tree trunk, followed by a purification process. Phytochemical analysis, rheological properties, and proximate and metallic content were assessed using standard methods. The viscosity was measured with a Brookfield viscometer, and pH values were determined using a Jenway 3510 pH meter. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with MiniTab Version 9.5. The purification process yielded 81.61%. The purified gum exhibited a glassy white colour, odourless smell, and bland taste. The pH values for crude and purified gums were 3.91 and 4.08, respectively. Moisture content was 0.08% in crude gum and 0.13% in purified gum, while total solids were 99.92%. Ash content was 0.999% for crude gum and 0.565% for purified gum. The gum contained glycosides, tannins, alkaloids, and triterpenoids, with no detectable heavy metals. Essential minerals such as sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, calcium, and manganese were present at concentrations within acceptable ranges. Cashew tree gum shows significant promise as a vaccine carrier due to its high yield, safe phytochemical profile, and biocompatibility; therefore, can be used in advancing oral vaccine delivery.