Title:Antimicrobial Application of Chitosan Derivatives and their Nanocomposites
Volume: 30
Issue: 15
Author(s): Xuezheng Lin, Xiaochen Gong, Qicheng Ruan, Wei Xu, Chunjing Zhang and Kai Zhao*
Affiliation:
- Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 318000,
China
- Institute of Nanobiomaterials and Immunology, School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou Zhejiang
318000, China
Keywords:
Chitosan derivatives, soluble chitosan derivatives, antimicrobial activity, structural form, nanomaterials, nanocomposites.
Abstract: Chitosan is derived from chitin polysaccharide, the main component of crustacean
shells. Chitosan is a biocompatible, nontoxic, and biodegradable polymer soluble
in acidic solutions. It is widely used in the medical and pharmaceutical fields. Antimicrobial
activities of chitosan against different bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens have
been considered one of its attractive properties, making chitosan valuable for biological
applications, including textile, food, tissue engineering, agriculture, and environmental
protection. Additionally, chitosan has beneficial effects on livestock, poultry, fish, and
crustaceans, which can enhance immunity, improve feed conversion, and promote
growth. However, the water solubility of chitosan influences antimicrobial capabilities,
limiting its application. In the present work, we reviewed the preparation, factors affecting
antimicrobial activity, morphological structure, antimicrobial mechanism, and application
of chitosan derivatives, and the problems and prospects were pointed out. Collectively,
this review provided an update on the application of chitosan derivatives and their
potential for further advanced applications in the antimicrobial field.