Document Type : Review / Mini-Review
Authors
Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
Articular cartilage is a highly specialized connective tissue that facilitates smooth joint articulation and efficient load distribution. Its avascular structure, low cellular density, and limited intrinsic repair capacity make cartilage injuries and degenerative disorders, particularly osteoarthritis, difficult to treat. Conventional clinical interventions often fail to regenerate durable hyaline cartilage, which creates a pressing need for advanced biomaterials capable of promoting functional tissue restoration. Among emerging candidates, chitosan, a natural polysaccharide derived from chitin, has attracted significant attention in cartilage tissue engineering. Its unique combination of biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, structural similarity to glycosaminoglycans, and inherent anti-inflammatory activity positions it as a versatile platform for regenerative applications. This review synthesizes recent advances in chitosan-based strategies, including hydrogels, porous scaffolds, nanofibrous matrices, and composite systems engineered to mimic the native extracellular matrix. These systems support cell adhesion, proliferation, and chondrogenic differentiation. In addition, chitosan functions as a nanocarrier for targeted and sustained delivery of drugs, growth factors, and bioactive molecules. Its integration with 3D bioprinting technologies enables the fabrication of patient-specific, multilayered scaffolds that replicate the zonal architecture of native cartilage.
The review also examines chitosan’s role in modulating mesenchymal stem cell fate, approaches to surface functionalization, and comparative performance relative to other biomaterials such as collagen, polycaprolactone, hyaluronic acid, and polylactic acid. Evidence from preclinical and early clinical studies underscores its regenerative efficacy and translational potential. Finally, emerging directions, including nanotechnology-enhanced constructs, stimuli-responsive hydrogels, exosome-loaded systems, and integration with induced pluripotent stem cells, are discussed as promising avenues for future research. Collectively, these insights highlight chitosan’s strong potential as a next-generation biomaterial for cartilage tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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