Chitosan - A Potential Polymer to Prepare Anticancer Drug Delivery Systems: Patent Review

Background: Polymers are used in drug delivery systems to encapsulate and release the drug. Natural polymers have the advantages of biodegradability, biocompatibility, and recognizable biological moieties that maintain cellular functions as compared to synthetic polymers. Chitosan is a natural polycationic linear polysaccharide that originates from chitin. Its easy modification, release rate of drug, ability to cross-link with other polymers, gelling ability, immunostimulation, bioadhesion, biocompatibility, and biodegradability has increased its application in various drug delivery systems. Objective: The objective of the present study is to overview the recent patents of the application of chitosan in various drug delivery systems and their use in the prevention of cancer and other ailments. Methods: In this review, the patent application of chitosan in various drug delivery systems employed to cure mainly cancer has been covered with particular emphasis on their scientific impact and novelty. Results: Chitosan has proved its potential as a polymer to control and target the drug at the site of action. Conclusion: The potential of chitosan and its derivatives to deliver and target the drug may open new avenues for therapeutic interventions in different tumors.