Chitin/Chitosan and Its Derivatives: Fundamental Problems and Practical Approaches

Area of Science:

• Biopolymer Science
• Microbial Ecology

Background:

• Chitin and chitosan are abundant natural polymers with diverse biological functions.
• Their synthesis, degradation, and occurrence in nature are crucial for biosphere cycles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the natural occurrence, properties, and modification methods of chitin and chitosan.
• To explore the antimicrobial, fungicidal, and antioxidant applications of their derivatives.
• To highlight the impact of physicochemical characteristics on these properties.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific data on chitin and chitosan.
• Analysis of microbial synthesis and degradation pathways.
• Examination of structure-activity relationships for modified polymers.

Main Results:

• Chitin and chitosan exhibit significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.
• Physicochemical properties (molecular weight, deacetylation degree) critically influence bioactivity.
• Novel microorganisms capable of chitin degradation under extreme conditions were identified.

Conclusions:

• Chitin, chitosan, and their derivatives hold substantial promise for applications in biotechnology, medicine, and agriculture.
• Further fundamental research is essential to fully understand their natural roles and optimize applied uses.
• Modification strategies can tailor polymer properties for specific beneficial activities.