Interpenetrating Polymer Networks of Chitosan-Based Matrix in Drug Delivery
摘要
Interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) have emerged as a promising strategy in the design of advanced drug delivery systems, offering enhanced control over drug release, improved biocompatibility, and the ability to incorporate multiple therapeutic agents. Chitosan, a natural, biodegradable polymer, is gaining increasing attention as a matrix component in IPNs due to its unique properties, such as structural mimicry of the extracellular matrix, ease of chemical modification, and inherent antimicrobial activity. This chapter delves into the development and application of chitosan-based IPNs for drug delivery, highlighting their design, synthesis, and functional advantages. The chapter begins with an overview of chitosan’s chemical structure and its potential for integration with other natural and synthetic polymers to form IPNs. It explores various crosslinking strategies, fabrication techniques, and the mechanisms governing drug release, such as diffusion, swelling, and degradation. A detailed analysis of the factors influencing drug encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics, and therapeutic effectiveness is presented. Applications in oral, transdermal, and targeted drug delivery are discussed, along with recent advancements in stimuli-responsive and nanotechnology-based IPN systems. Finally, the chapter addresses current challenges, such as scalability and stability, and provides insights into future trends in the development of smart drug delivery platforms. This chapter serves as a comprehensive guide for researchers and practitioners seeking to harness the potential of chitosan-based IPNs for innovative drug delivery solutions.