Chitosan: some pharmaceutical and biological aspects--an update

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide derived from chitin, the second most abundant natural polymer.
• It possesses variable properties like degree of deacetylation and molecular weight, influencing its reactivity.
• The amino groups in chitosan allow chemical reactions with anionic systems, altering physicochemical characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biological and pharmaceutical profile of chitosan.
• To highlight recent investigations and established research on chitosan's applications.
• To provide insights into chitosan's potential in drug delivery and as a bioactive agent.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent and relevant historical research on chitosan.
• Analysis of chitosan's chemical structure and properties.
• Compilation of studies on chitosan's pharmaceutical and biological applications.

Main Results:

• Chitosan serves as a valuable pharmaceutical excipient with binding, disintegrating, and coating properties.
• It is explored for controlled drug delivery systems, mucoadhesion, and enhanced oral absorption of drugs.
• Chitosan demonstrates biological activities including hypocholesterolemic, antimicrobial, and wound healing effects.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan's low toxicity and broad applicability make it a promising candidate for drug delivery and as a biologically active agent.
• Its chemical reactivity and tunable properties support diverse pharmaceutical applications.
• Further research continues to uncover the potential of chitosan in advanced drug delivery systems and therapeutic interventions.