An Overview of Chitosan-Based Composites Containing Silver or Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Properties, and Biomedical Perspectives

Chitosan-based composites containing silver (AgNPs) or zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) exhibit significant antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, making them promising for biomedical applications such as wound dressings and tissue engineering. AgNPs enhance antimicrobial performance through mechanisms like membrane disruption and DNA damage, but pose environmental and cytotoxicity concerns. ZnONPs, while less potent, offer advantages like lower cost, good biocompatibility, and potential for wound healing. These composites are also explored for food packaging and surface protection due to their enhanced mechanical properties. Challenges include nanoparticle stability, biological safety, and regulatory hurdles, with future research focusing on optimizing design and ensuring environmental sustainability.