Therapeutic Implications of Chitosan and Its Derivatives

Abstract

Chitosan and its derivatives have garnered increasing interest in oncology due to their unique properties, such as biocompatibility, bioactivity and their ability to interact with molecules. These characteristics make them promising candidates for the development of novel anticancer therapies. Chitosan can be employed as drug delivery systems, enhancing the availability and targeted release of therapeutic agents into cancer cells. Additionally, they have demonstrated the ability to inhibit cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and modulate immune responses, positioning them as multifunctional tools in the fight against cancer. Recent research has focused on the development of chitosan-based nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery in chemotherapy, reducing side effects on healthy cells. Furthermore, Chitosan systems have been used to deliver siRNA and other therapeutic molecules, inhibiting tumor growth at the genetic level. These advancements highlight chitosan's potential in developing more effective and less toxic cancer treatments.