Tinjauan Formulasi Partikel Berbasis Kitosan untuk Sistem Pengiriman Obat yang Bertarget, Terkontrol, dan Ramah Lingkungan

The use of biodegradable polymers is a key consideration in selecting carriers for targeted drug delivery systems, especially those developed in the form of micro- or nanoparticles. Such systems offer significant advantages, including the formation of matrices that degrade biologically within the body over a predetermined period, allowing for sustained and controlled drug release. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for minimizing dosing frequency, improving patient compliance, and reducing systemic side effects. Among various biodegradable polymers, chitosan has garnered considerable attention due to its unique physicochemical and biological properties. Derived from chitin, chitosan is a natural polysaccharide that is not only biodegradable and biocompatible but also non-toxic, non-immunogenic, and non-irritant. These properties make chitosan highly suitable for drug delivery applications, particularly in the development of micro- and nanoparticle systems aimed at targeted and controlled release. In addition, chitosan possesses functional amino groups that can be chemically modified to enhance its solubility, mucoadhesiveness, and ability to encapsulate various types of drugs, including peptides, proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules. Furthermore, its ability to open tight junctions in epithelial cells makes it an attractive polymer for mucosal drug delivery, including nasal, oral, and ocular routes. Despite its many advantages, there are challenges associated with the use of chitosan, such as variability in molecular weight and degree of deacetylation, which can affect its performance and reproducibility in pharmaceutical formulations. Additionally, its solubility is pH-dependent, which may limit its application under physiological conditions. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential, current applications, and challenges of using chitosan as a primary polymer in the design of safe, effective, and sustainable drug delivery systems.