EFFECT OF CHITOSAN ON BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS OF IMMUNOGLOBULIN SYNTHESIS AND PHAGOCYTOSIS

This article systematizes current evidence on the immunological effects of chitosan, with special emphasis on immunoglobulin synthesis, phagocytic activity of macrophages and neutrophils, and related biochemical markers. The review demonstrates that molecular weight, degree of deacetylation, solubility, and particulate form are the key determinants of chitosan bioactivity. Chitosan can intensify functional interactions between antigen-presenting cells and B lymphocytes, positively influence IgA, IgG and IgM levels, and modulate phagocytic index, lysosomal enzyme activity, reactive oxygen species generation, and cytokine profiles. The analytical synthesis supports the view that chitosan should be considered not only as a drug-delivery biomaterial, but also as a promising immunomodulator and vaccine adjuvant.