CHITO-OLIGOSACCHARIDE: A MULTIFUNCTIONAL BIOPOLYMER ADVANCING MODERN WOUND HEALING

Chito-oligosaccharide (COS), a low–molecular weight bioactive derivative of chitosan, has emerged as a highly promising multifunctional biopolymer for advanced wound management. Its unique structural characteristics—short β-(1→4)-linked chains of D-glucosamine and Nacetyl-D-glucosamine with tunable degrees of polymerization and acetylation—provide enhanced solubility, stronger biological interactions, and improved therapeutic efficacy compared with native chitosan. These attributes enable COS to modulate multiple cellular and molecular pathways involved in wound repair, making it a superior candidate for modern wound-care formulations.This review provides an updated and comprehensive assessment of the chemistry, physicochemical properties, and mechanistic actions of COS across all woundhealing phases. COS exhibits potent antimicrobial effects through membrane disruption, biofilm inhibition, and metal-ion chelation, while simultaneously regulating inflammatory responses by suppressing TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and promoting IL-10–mediated M2 macrophage polarization. It enhances fibroblast proliferation, keratinocyte migration, extracellular matrix reorganization, and collagen synthesis via activation of ERK, PI3K/Akt, and FAK signaling pathways. Additionally, COS supports angiogenesis through upregulation of VEGF, FGF-2, and PDGF, and displays significant antioxidant capacity that protects tissues from oxidative stress.Emerging applications of COS in hydrogels, nanocomposites, scaffolds, membranes, and spray systems demonstrate its versatility in developing next-generation wound therapeutics. Furthermore, synergistic interactions with ions, growth factors, and antimicrobial agents enhance its healing potential. Collectively, COS represents a scientifically validated, safe, and adaptable biomaterial with substantial promise for transforming modern wound-care strategies.

Keywords – Chito-oligosaccharide (COS); Wound healing; Anti-inflammatory activity; Antimicrobial action; ERK/PI3K-Akt/FAK signaling; Angiogenesis; Biomaterial applications; Antioxidant activity.