Applications of Chitosan and Nanochitosan in Formulation of Novel Antibacterial and Wound Healing Agents

Abstract

Applications of chitosan and nanochitosan biomaterials in biomedical field are based on important advantages of this biopolymer including biocompatibility, biodegradability, hemostatic, antimicrobial activities, acceleration in wound healing process, nearly controlled release of antimicrobial agents and growth factors. However, low solubility of chitosan in physiological pH condition is important disadvantage which can be resulted in fast metabolism of this biopolymer by enzymes of gastrointestinal tract. Other striking drawbacks in chitosan application are low degree of stability, mechanical resistance, and porosity which can have negative effects on wound healing. Hence, it can be used as biocomposites/nano-biocomposites forms via interaction with natural and synthetic polymers or other materials. Considering these facts, recent advancements related to wound healing and antibacterial agents based on combination of chitosan with major natural polymers involving cellulose, collagen, alginic acid, hyaluronic acid, starch, and chondroitin sulfate are presented in this chapter.