Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 1, 2025
06:36
Preparation of Expanded Chitin Foams and their Use in the Removal of Aqueous Copper
Published on: February 27, 2021
3.8K
Physicochemical characterization, adsorption function and prebiotic effect of chitin-glucan complex from mushroom
Zhiwei Zhang1, Lifeng Zhao2, Hang Qu1
1School of Life & Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|March 3, 2022
Summary
Chitin-glucan complex (CGC) from Coprinus comatus demonstrates beneficial prebiotic effects. This novel dietary fiber shows enhanced functional properties and increases beneficial gut acids, making it a promising ingredient for functional foods.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Biochemistry
- Mycology
Background:
- Chitin-glucan complex (CGC) is an insoluble dietary fiber with various physiological activities.
- Investigating novel sources of CGC is crucial for developing functional food ingredients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To extract and characterize chitin-glucan complex (CGC) from Coprinus comatus.
- To evaluate the physicochemical properties and prebiotic effects of this novel CGC.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of CGC from Coprinus comatus fruiting bodies.
- Analysis of physicochemical properties including composition, acetylation, crystallinity, thermal stability, and functional capacities (oil/water holding, nitrite adsorption).
- In vitro assessment of prebiotic effects by measuring short-chain fatty acid production.
Main Results:
- CGC from C. comatus had a glucosamine:glucose ratio of 67:33, 61.91% acetylation, and 25.40% crystallinity.
- It exhibited superior oil-holding capacity, water-holding capacity, and nitrite ion adsorption compared to commercial chitin.
- CGC significantly increased propionic and butyric acid concentrations, indicating prebiotic potential.
Conclusions:
- CGC extracted from Coprinus comatus possesses favorable physicochemical properties and demonstrates significant prebiotic effects.
- This mushroom-derived CGC is a promising alternative source for CGC products and bioactive ingredients in functional foods.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Overview of Fungi
249
Fungi are a diverse group of eukaryotes more closely related to animals than other eukaryotes. Fungal cell walls comprise chitin, a polysaccharide that provides structural strength, and glucans, which contribute to flexibility and integrity. Other polysaccharides, such as mannans and galactosans, may supplement or replace chitin in some fungi. These adaptations, along with their preference for acidic environments and tolerance for high osmotic pressure, enable fungi to thrive in various...
249
01:29Fungal Group Zygomycota
191
Zygomycota, previously classified as a distinct fungal group, are primarily terrestrial, saprophytic molds that play a crucial role as decomposers. Recent phylogenetic studies have revealed that these fungi are now divided into two major clades — Mucoromycota, which includes many symbiotic species, and Zoopagomycota, which primarily consists of parasitic and pathogenic fungi. These groups exhibit distinct ecological roles and reproductive strategies while sharing key structural and...
191
01:22Factors Influencing Drug Absorption: Physicochemical Parameters
558
The physicochemical characteristics of drugs play a crucial role in formulating stable and bioavailable drug products. The solubility of a drug, governed by the varying pH along the GI tract and its dissociation constant (pKa), is pivotal in determining its ionization state and absorption rate. Notably, weak acids and bases remain unionized and are absorbed more rapidly.
Enhanced drug absorption can be achieved by reducing particle sizes and increasing surface areas, thereby facilitating...
Enhanced drug absorption can be achieved by reducing particle sizes and increasing surface areas, thereby facilitating...
558