Advances in Processing Chitin as a Promising Biomaterial from Ionic Liquids

Chitin isolated through microwave-assisted dissolution using ionic liquids is a high molecular weight (MW) polymer that can be manufactured into materials of different architectures (e.g., fibers, films, microspheres, nanostructured materials) to be used as wound care dressings, drug delivery devices, scaffolds, etc. However, because of differences from traditional isolation methods and, thus, differences in polymer length and degree of deacetylation, it could exhibit bio-related properties that differ from those of traditionally 'pulped' chitin. Here we present the initial assessments of bio-related chitin properties in order to provide a useful scientific basis for clinical applications: biocompatibility, cytotoxicity (intracutaneous reactivity), wound healing efficacy, histological evaluation of the wounds treated with chitin dressing, and antibacterial activity. We also provide the studies that outline potential applications of chitin as a raw polymer for preparation of biomaterials. Graphical Abstract.