Chitosan: Its applications in drug-eluting devices

Mei Chin Chen, Fwu Long Mi, Zi Xian Liao, Hsing Wen Sung

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

32 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Chitosan, a naturally occurring polysaccharide derived from chitin, has been widely applied in drug delivery, tissue regeneration, wound healing, blood coagulation, and immunostimulation due to its well-known biocompatibility and biodegradability. Additionally, because of its unique cationic nature and the gel/film/matrix-forming capabilities, chitosan has been considered as a promising material for the development of medical devices. The current concept for developing medical devices often comprises the functionality of controlled release of bioactive agents such as drugs, proteins, or growth factors in order to fulfill their clinical applications. However, in biological fluids, the hydrophilic chitosan matrices may swell and deform dramatically through hydration, thus resulting in a rapid loss of the encapsulated drugs from the delivery device. Considerable efforts have therefore been made in chemically modifying chitosan to improve its physical properties and functionality. This review article focuses on the versatile modifications of chitosan matrices (ionic or chemical crosslinking) and the most recent research activities in drug-eluting devices, including vascular stents, artificial skin, bone grafts, and nerve guidance conduits.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationChitosan for Biomaterials I
EditorsR. Jayakumar, Riccardo Muzzarelli, M. Prabaharan
Pages185-230
Number of pages46
Edition1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011

Publication series

NameAdvances in Polymer Science
Number1
Volume243
ISSN (Print)0065-3195

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Polymers and Plastics

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