Progress and prospects in chitosan derivatives: Modification strategies and medical applications

Chitosan (CS) is the only natural alkaline polysaccharide originated from deacetylation of chitin that is the main component of shell from marine organisms. It has great potential medical application due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and good water solubility originated from its protonated amino groups under acidic condition and abundant hydroxyl groups. However, unprotonated NH2 group of CS leads to its poor solubility under physiological condition and limits its diverse applications. Therefore, it is highly necessary to summarize the modification strategies of CS derivatives systematically to help researchers select the most appropriate strategies for their specific applications. Herein, we have summarized the modification strategies of CS derivatives for improving their antimicrobial activity, water solubility, biocompatibility, and mechanical property by chemical reaction and physical integration. And then we have reviewed the CS derivatives in hydrogels, nanoparticles, or coatings for medical application in wound dressing, drug delivery, medical implant. Last but not the least, we have put forward the future perspectives of deep studies about structure-activity relationship and clinical applications of CS derivatives. (C) 2021 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The editorial office of Journal of Materials Science & Technology.

Automated summary

Chitosan is a natural alkaline polysaccharide derived from marine organisms with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and good water solubility. However, its poor solubility under physiological conditions limits its applications, thus systematic summarization of modification strategies for CS derivatives is highly necessary. Current research has improved the properties of CS derivatives through chemical reactions and physical integration, providing more possibilities for medical applications.