Chitosan

Poliglusam, or chitosan, is a linear polysaccharide consisting of D-glucosamine and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. Naturally-occuring poliglusam is found in the cell walls of fungi, soil and sediments where it is produced from degradation of chitin induced by certain groups of bacteria that produce the enzymes deacetylase or chitosanase enzymes. In comparison, commercial poliglusam is derived from deacetylation of chitin contained in the shells of various sea crustaceans including shrimps. As a rich source of dietary fiber, chitosan is used as a food ingredient or additive. It is also reported to have an effect on protein aggregation, emulsification capacity, film-forming ability, clarifying ability, and fatty acid absorption capability. Additionally, chitosan also exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Its therapeutic use is listed as adhesion-prevention agents. The directory classifies it as a commercial API with a natural source/manufacturing origin. Other names for this substance include Poliglusam, Chicol and Flonac C. Its PubChem SID is 516564336.