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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
09:27
Rapid One-step Enzymatic Synthesis and All-aqueous Purification of Trehalose Analogues
Published on: February 17, 2017
Thermodynamic, hydration and structural characteristics of alpha,alpha-trehalose
Takao Furuki1, Kazuyuki Oku, Minoru Sakurai
1Center for Biological Resources and Informatics, Tokyo Institute of Technology, B-62 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan.
Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark Edition)
|March 11, 2009
Summary
Alpha,alpha-trehalose protects organisms during dehydration and against stress. This review explores its physicochemical properties to understand its protective mechanisms for proteins and fatty acids.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Alpha,alpha-trehalose is a nonreducing disaccharide found in anhydrobiotic organisms.
- It is believed to protect against dehydration by replacing water or vitrifying.
- Trehalose also protects against freezing, ethanol, and oxidation stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand the molecular basis of trehalose's protective functions.
- To investigate the physicochemical properties of trehalose.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of protein stabilization and antioxidant activity.
Main Methods:
- Review of thermodynamic properties of carbohydrates.
- Analysis of hydration properties of carbohydrates.
- Examination of structural properties of carbohydrates.
Main Results:
- Trehalose exhibits unique thermodynamic, hydration, and structural characteristics.
- These properties are key to its function as a protectant.
- The review links these properties to trehalose's ability to stabilize proteins and act as an antioxidant.
Conclusions:
- Trehalose's distinct physicochemical properties underpin its diverse protective roles.
- Understanding these properties is crucial for comprehending its biological functions.
- This knowledge can inform applications in stabilization and preservation.
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