Chitosan polyplexes for targeted gene delivery: From mechanisms to clinical applications

As a diverse natural polymer called Chitosan, it created ground-breaking advancements in nucleic acid therapeutic delivery techniques for handling essential DNA and RNA delivery hurdles. The article investigates how nucleic acids form stable polyplexes with chitosan through electrostatic bonds, as well as explores their chemical and biological properties. The review explores how molecular weight, combined with the degree of deacetylation, combined with advanced functionalization strategies, help enhance delivery results. Cellular uptake and specific targeting of polyplexes are improved through research into different targeting methods, which include ligand attachment, charge manipulation, and cell-penetrating peptides. Endosomal release of polyplexes is enabled by pH-sensitive and redox-sensitive polyplex architectures, while simultaneous control strategies are achieved through these delivery systems. The field of nucleic acid therapy now includes applications with CRISPR-Cas delivery and mRNA vaccines, and gene silencing therapy. The safety assessment encompasses cytotoxicity testing alongside immunogenicity evaluation and biodegradability assessment, which is conducted alongside direct comparison with alternative polymeric delivery vehicles. The potential for clinical use and targeted delivery, and combined smart transport systems establishes chitosan polyplexes as an innovative solution for nucleic acid drug delivery according to recent research findings.