Synthesis and characterization of folate conjugated chitosan and cellular uptake of its nanoparticles in HT-29 cells

► Parameters for synthesis of folate -chitosan conjugates (FA-CS) were optimized. ► FA-CS nanoparticles were synthesized by ionic gelation. ► FA-CS nanoparticles were spherical in shape with average particle size of 100 nm. ► FA-CS nanoparticles were positively charged. ► FA-CS nanoparticles exhibited improved uptake of colonic cancer cells HT-29.