Biomedical Potential of Chitosan Nanoparticles: Advances in Drug Delivery and Disease Management

Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from the deacetylation of chitin, has gained significant attention in biomedical applications due to its exceptional biocompatibility, biodegradability, and antimicrobial properties. The advent of nanotechnology has further expanded its potential through chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs), which offer improved solubility, bioavailability, and targeted therapeutic delivery. CSNPs possess mucoadhesive properties that enhance drug transport across biological membranes, making them effective in treating cancer, diabetes, infections, and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, their antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities contribute to food preservation, wound healing, and the mitigation of oxidative stress-related disorders. In cancer therapy, CSNPs facilitate controlled drug release, minimizing systemic toxicity and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Their ability to interact with cellular components also makes them ideal for gene therapy and vaccine delivery. Functionalization with ligands and antibodies has further improved their specificity and bioavailability in targeted drug delivery applications, including oral, ocular, and pulmonary routes. Despite these advantages, challenges such as large-scale production, stability, and regulatory compliance must be addressed. Future research should focus on optimizing CSNP formulations for clinical applications, ensuring their safety and efficacy. This chapter explores the vast biomedical potential of CSNPs, highlighting their ability to revolutionize modern drug delivery systems.