Overcoming the protein corona in chitosan-based nanoparticles

Numerous properties of chitosan have led to its extensive use in the formulation of nanomaterials for drug delivery. However, the cationic surface of chitosan-based nanoparticles adsorbs proteins upon exposure to biological fluids, forming a phenomenon known as 'protein corona'. This causes several effects such as decreased bioavailability and limited in vivo clinical applications of chitosan nanoparticles. Understanding and overcoming the effects of protein adsorption on chitosan nanoparticles is key for drug delivery purposes. This review focuses on the strategies implemented to increase the stability of chitosan nanoparticles in the systemic circulation by averting the formation of protein corona and the limitations of PEGylation.

Automated summary

Chitosan is widely used in drug delivery due to its properties, but the protein corona formed by protein adsorption on chitosan-based nanoparticles hinders their bioavailability and clinical applications. Strategies to prevent protein corona formation are crucial for enhancing the stability of chitosan nanoparticles in systemic circulation.