Chitosan: An Update on Potential Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Chitosan is a natural polycationic polysaccharide derived from chitin.
• Its low solubility in neutral/alkaline conditions restricts applications.
• Chitosan exhibits excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent research, trends, and prospects of chitosan.
• To highlight specialized pharmaceutical and biomedical applications of modified chitosan.
• To explore the potential of chitosan-based composites and hydrogels.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent scientific publications on chitosan.
• Analysis of chemical modification strategies for chitosan.
• Synthesis and characterization of chitosan-based composites and hydrogels.

Main Results:

• Chemical modification significantly enhances chitosan's functional properties and expands its applications.
• Chitosan-based hydrogels and composites demonstrate promise in drug delivery and tissue engineering.
• Recent trends focus on overcoming solubility limitations and tailoring chitosan for specific biomedical needs.

Conclusions:

• Modified chitosan is a highly versatile biomaterial with significant potential in pharmaceutical and biomedical fields.
• Continued research into chitosan modification and application is crucial for advancing its use.
• Chitosan's inherent properties make it an attractive candidate for developing novel therapeutic and diagnostic tools.