Molecules, Vol. 26, Pages 1195: Versatile Use of Chitosan and Hyaluronan in Medicine
Molecules, Vol. 26, Pages 1195: Versatile Use of Chitosan and Hyaluronan in Medicine
Molecules doi: 10.3390/molecules26041195
Authors:
Katarína Valachová
Ladislav Šoltés
Chitosan is industrially acquired by the alkaline N-deacetylation of chitin. Chitin belongs to the β-N-acetyl-glucosamine polymers, providing structure, contrary to α-polymers, which supply food with energy. Another β-polymer providing structure is hyaluronan. A lot of studies have been performed on chitosan to explore its industrial use. Since chitosan is biodegradable, non-toxic, bacteriostatic, and fungistatic, it has numerous applications in medicine. Hyaluronan, one of the major structural components of the extracellular matrix in vertebrate tissues, is broadly exploited in medicine as well. This review summarizes the main areas where these two biopolymers have an impact. The reviewed areas mostly cover most medical applications, along with non-medical applications, such as cosmetics.
Source: Molecules - Category: Chemistry Authors: Katar ína Valachová Ladislav Šoltés Tags: Review Source Type: research