Chitosan, Chitin, and Cellulose Nanofiber Biomaterials II

Dear Colleagues,

There is increasing interest in using natural polymers and fiber-filled composites to achieve the development of functional biomaterials for varied applications. Commonly used biopolymers include the polysaccharides chitosan, chitin, and cellulose, and their derivatives. Chitosan is a copolymer of β(1®4)-linked D-glucosamine and N-acetyl D-glucosamine, mainly produced by the deacetylation of chitin—the second most abundant polysaccharide worldwide, most commonly found in crustacean cuticle. The degree of acetylation and molecular weight are the most important parameters of a copolymer, defining the physico-chemistry and properties of the chitinous compound. Chitosan structurally belongs to the glycosaminoglycan family, for which bioactivity has been revealed in tissue engineering studies centered on skin, bone, cartilage, and, more recently, intervertebral disc. The biocompatibility of chitinous biomaterial, together with its bioactivity, suggests its great potential for biomedical applications. Fundamental research relating chitosan/chitin physico-chemistry with biological properties is only addressed by a relatively minor number of studies. 

Many biological materials consist of composites reinforced by fibers. Native cellulose presents a microfibrillated structure consisting of crystalline (40-80%) and amorphous regions. The microfibrils present a very high aspect ratio, and are very large in length, with diameters of a few tens of nanometers and a width of the elementary fibrils of around 5 nm. The unique mechanical properties and renewability of cellulose nanofibers (CNF) have increasingly motivated their use as filler in nanocomposites. These nanoreinforcements have the advantages of efficient production and valorization in comparison to other natural and synthetic fibers. As a nanomaterial, questions of CNF toxicity and environmental impact have been addressed. Good CNF biocompatibility has been reported. Chitosan bioactivity and the outstanding mechanical properties of CNF, with non-toxic properties and low environmental risk, promise safe biomedical applications. 

This Special Issue is focused on all types of biomaterials (biological materials, bio-based materials and biomaterials for biomedical applications) utilizing chitosan, chitin, and/or cellulose nanofibers. Special attention will be given to studies fulfilling the following criteria: (i) obtaining insights into the microstructure–properties relationship in both biological and engineering materials; and (ii) improving the current understanding of biopolymer physical–chemical behavior to achieve appropriate biomaterial physical forms and properties for target applications and functionalities, by interrelating processing, microstructure, function and the biological response. An emphasis is placed on biomedical applications, but this Special Issue will not be limited to this field.

Prof. Dr. Anayancy Osorio-Madrazo
Guest Editor

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