Advances in chitosan based nanocarriers for targetted wound healing therapies: a review

Wound healing is a critical physiological process essential for restoring tissue integrity and function. Chronic wounds, often characterized by prolonged inflammation, infection, and impaired tissue regeneration, pose significant challenges to global healthcare systems. Chitosan, a naturally derived polymer, has gained attention for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and inherent antimicrobial properties. Incorporating chitosan into nanoparticle systems enhances its therapeutic potential by enabling controlled drug release, targeted delivery, and improved stability of bioactive agents. Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) exhibit unique properties such as antimicrobial activity, facilitation of hemostasis, and immune modulation, collectively promoting wound healing. This review highlights the various techniques used for chitosan nanoparticle preparation, including ionic gelation, polyelectrolyte complexation, and emulsification-solvent diffusion, emphasizing their impact on encapsulation efficiency and drug release profiles. Additionally, advancements in surface modification strategies, such as PEGylation and ligand functionalization, have improved nanoparticle targeting capabilities. Despite their immense potential, challenges related to scalability, regulatory frameworks, and translational gaps remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. Future efforts should focus on overcoming these barriers to enable clinical translation and maximize therapeutic impact.