New Insights into Sources, Bioavailability, Health-Promoting Effects, and Applications of Chitin and Chitosan

Chitin and chitosan are mostly derived from the exoskeletons of crustaceans, insects, and fungi. Chitin is the second most abundant biopolymer after cellulose, and it is a fibrous polysaccharide which resists enzymatic degradation in the stomach but undergoes microbial fermentation in the colon, pro...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of agricultural and food chemistry 2024-08, Vol.72 (31), p.17138-17152
Main Authors: Wijesekara, Tharuka, Xu, Baojun
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Anti-Inflammatory Agents - chemistry
Anti-Inflammatory Agents - metabolism
Anti-Inflammatory Agents - pharmacology
Biological Availability
Chitin - chemistry
Chitin - metabolism
Chitin - pharmacology
Chitosan - chemistry
Chitosan - metabolism
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Humans
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Summary:Chitin and chitosan are mostly derived from the exoskeletons of crustaceans, insects, and fungi. Chitin is the second most abundant biopolymer after cellulose, and it is a fibrous polysaccharide which resists enzymatic degradation in the stomach but undergoes microbial fermentation in the colon, producing beneficial metabolites. Chitosan, which is more soluble in the alkaline small intestine, is more susceptible to enzymatic action. Both biopolymers show limited absorption into the bloodstream, with smaller particles exhibiting better bioavailability. The health effects include anti-inflammatory properties, potential in immune system modulation, impacts on cholesterol levels, and antimicrobial effects, with a specific focus on implications for gut health. Chitin and chitosan exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by interacting with immune cells, influencing cytokine production, and modulating immune responses, which may benefit conditions characterized by chronic inflammation. These biopolymers can impact cholesterol levels by binding to dietary fats and reducing lipid absorption. Additionally, their antimicrobial properties contribute to gut health by controlling harmful pathogens and promoting beneficial gut microbiota. This review explores the extensive health benefits and applications of chitin and chitosan, providing a detailed examination of their chemical compositions, dietary sources, and applications, and critically assessing their health-promoting effects in the context of human well-being.
ISSN:0021-8561
1520-5118
1520-5118
DOI:10.1021/acs.jafc.4c02162