Trehalose and trehalose-based polymers for environmentally benign, biocompatible and bioactive materials

Area of Science:

• Carbohydrate Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Trehalose is a non-reducing disaccharide with a unique symmetrical structure, crucial for cryptobiosis in various organisms.
• Industrial-scale enzymatic production of trehalose has opened avenues for its diverse applications.
• Trehalose derivatives and their polymers exhibit promising biocompatible and biodegradable properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on trehalose's role in cryptobiology and its applications.
• To highlight the synthesis and properties of novel trehalose-based monomers and polymers.
• To discuss the challenges and methods in creating well-defined trehalose-based polymers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of trehalose's involvement in cryptobiology and applications.
• Preparation of new trehalose-based monomers.
• Synthesis and characterization of trehalose-based polymers, involving protection/deprotection strategies.

Main Results:

• Trehalose's structure confers stability and versatility, enabling its use in various fields.
• Development of methods for synthesizing trehalose-based monomers and polymers.
• Characterization of the properties of newly synthesized trehalose-based materials.

Conclusions:

• Trehalose's unique properties make it a valuable molecule for diverse applications.
• The synthesis of well-defined trehalose-based polymers remains a challenge but offers significant potential.
• Further research into trehalose-based materials could lead to advancements in food, industrial, and medicinal sectors.