Do mushrooms have chitin? Chitinous cover of arthropods

As well as many other nutritional components. But what is especially interesting about the composition of mushrooms is their unique texture, which has no analogues among other representatives of nature. And the substance chitin is responsible for the “fleshy” structure of mushrooms. Yes, that same chitin, known from biology lessons, which is found in the shells of crustaceans and insects. It is thanks to their unique chemical structure that mushrooms are classified as a separate kingdom. But what role does nature assign to chitin, other than creating shells and giving mushrooms uniqueness?

What is chitin

Chitin is the second most abundant biopolymer on the planet.

According to some estimates, nature produces exactly the same amount of this substance as cellulose every year. It, from a chemical point of view, is a nitrogen-containing polysaccharide with a straight chain. Under natural conditions, it is part of complex organic and inorganic compounds.

Chitin as a natural biopolymer is found mainly in the exoskeleton (outer part of the skeleton) of shrimp, crabs, lobsters, and crayfish. Also found in mushrooms, yeast, some bacteria and butterfly wings. In the human body it is necessary for the formation of hair and nails, and in birds - plumage. Pure chitin is more fragile than when combined with other substances. Insect exoskeletons are a combination of chitin and. Crustacean shells are typically composed of chitin and calcium carbonate.

Chitin has many commercial analogues, including food and pharmaceutical products. They are commonly used as food thickeners and stabilizers and also help create an edible film on foods.

In food products, chitin is presented in a modified and more bioavailable form of chitosan. Chitosan is a derivative of chitin, formed as a result of exposure of the substance to temperature and alkali. As scientists say, this substance is similar in composition to the tissues of the human body. For industrial purposes, it will be obtained from crustacean shells.

History of discovery

The discovery of chitin dates back to 1811, when Professor Henry Braconneau first discovered it in mushrooms. The scientist began to study with particular interest an unknown substance that was not susceptible to the influence of sulfuric acid. Then (in 1823) this substance was discovered in the wings of cockchafers and called it “chitin”, which in Greek means “clothing, shell”. This material was structurally similar to cellulose, but was much stronger. The structure of chitin was first determined by the Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann. And in 1859, the scientific world learned about chitosan. After chemists “purified” chitin from calcium and proteins. This substance, as it turns out, has a beneficial effect on almost all organs and systems of the human body.

Over the next century, interest in chitin faded a little, and only in the 1930s it grew with renewed vigor. And in the 1970s, the production of a substance from mollusk shells began.

Chitin in nature

As already noted, chitin is the main component of the exoskeleton (outer part of the skeleton) of many arthropods, such as insects, spiders, and crustaceans. Exoskeletons made of this strong and hard substance protect the sensitive and soft tissues of animals lacking internal skeletons.

Chitin is similar in structure to cellulose. And the functions of these two substances are also similar. Just as cellulose gives strength to plants, chitin strengthens animal tissue. However, it does not perform this function independently. Proteins come to his aid, including elastic resilin. The strength of the exoskeleton depends on the concentration of certain proteins: whether it will be hard, like a beetle’s shell, or soft and flexible, like the joints of a crab. Chitin can also be combined with non-protein substances such as calcium carbonate. In this case, crustacean shells are formed.

Animals that wear a "skeleton" on the outside are relatively inflexible due to the rigidity of the armor. Arthropods can bend limbs or segments of their body only at the joints where the exoskeleton is thinner. Therefore, it is important for them that the exoskeleton matches the anatomy. In addition to its role as a hard shell, chitin prevents the bodies of insects and arthropods from drying out and dehydrating.

But animals grow, which means that from time to time they need to adjust the “size” of the armor. But since the chitinous structure cannot grow with the animals, they shed the old shell and begin to secrete a new exoskeleton with the glands of the epidermis. And while the new armor hardens (and this will take a little time), the animals become extremely vulnerable.

Meanwhile, nature has endowed only small animals with shells made of chitin; such armor would not have protected larger specimens of fauna. It would not be suitable for terrestrial invertebrates either, since chitin becomes thicker and heavier over time, which means that animals would not be able to move under the weight of this protective armor.

Biological role in the body

Once in the human body, chitin, which has the ability to bind dietary lipids, reduces the activity of fat absorption in the intestines. As a result, the level of triglycerides in the body decreases. On the other hand, chitosan can influence calcium metabolism and accelerate its excretion in urine. Also, this substance can significantly reduce the level, but have a positive effect on the mineral composition of bone tissue.

In the body, chitin-chitosan plays the role of an antibacterial substance.

For this reason, it is included in some wound care products. Meanwhile, long-term use of chitin can disrupt the healthy microflora of the gastrointestinal tract and activate the growth of pathogenic microflora.

Functions of chitin and chitosan:

• baby food component;
• useful food supplement;
• reduces cholesterol;
• source of fiber;
• promotes the proliferation of bifidobacteria;
• helps with lactose intolerance;
• important for losing excess weight;
• antiulcer component;
• necessary for bone strength;
• has a beneficial effect on eye health;
• relieves gum disease;
• antitumor agent;
• component of cosmetics;
• component of many medical products;
• flavoring, preservative;
• used for the production of textiles and paper;
• seed treatment agent;
• important for cleansing.

What is it needed for

There is a wealth of scientific evidence that demonstrates the effect of chitin in lowering cholesterol concentrations. This property is especially noticeable in the combination of chitosan and chromium. This effect was first proven in rats by Japanese scientists in 1980. Researchers then discovered that the cholesterol reduction was due to chitin's ability to bind lipids to cells, preventing them from being absorbed by the body. Then Norwegian scientists announced the results of their experience: in order to reduce cholesterol levels by almost 25 percent, you need to take chitosan in addition to your diet for 8 weeks.

The positive effects of chitin are also felt by the kidneys. This substance is especially important for maintaining optimal well-being in people undergoing hemodialysis procedures.

The effect on the skin is to activate the ability to quickly heal wounds.

It affects the body according to the principle of soluble fiber. This means it improves the functioning of the digestive organs, speeds up the passage of food through the intestinal tract, and improves intestinal motility.

Improves the structure of hair, nails and skin.

Beneficial features

Numerous studies have shown that chitin and its derivatives are non-toxic, which means they can be safely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. According to some data, about 2 million people take chitin-based dietary supplements in the USA and Japan alone. And their number is only growing. By the way, Japanese doctors recommend that patients take chitin as a remedy against allergies, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

In addition, it is known that chitin completely decomposes under the influence of microorganisms, and therefore is an environmentally friendly substance.

Chitin and...

…digestion

Introducing chitin into a regular diet is the best thing a person can do for their health. That's what some researchers say, at least. After all, consuming this substance will not only help you lose excess weight, but will also lower blood pressure, prevent the occurrence of ulcers in the digestive system, and facilitate the digestion of food.

Several studies conducted in Japan and Europe have shown that chitin and its derivatives promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Scientists also have reason to believe that chitin not only improves the functioning of the colon (eliminating irritable bowel syndrome), but also prevents the formation of malignant tumors and polyps in the tissues.

It has been proven that this unique substance protects against gastritis, stops diarrhea, relieves constipation, and removes toxins.

…lactose

This may be surprising, but the research results convince us of the truth of this assumption. Chitin alleviates lactose intolerance. The results of the experiments surprised even scientists. It turned out that against the background of chitin, even food consisting of 70 percent does not cause symptoms of indigestion.

…excess weight

Today there is some evidence that chitin is a fat blocker. When a person consumes this, it binds to lipids that enter the body with food. And being an insoluble (non-digestible) component, the associated component is automatically endowed with the same ability. As a result, it turns out that this strange “blowing” travels through the body without being absorbed into it. It has been experimentally established that for weight loss it is necessary to consume 2.4 g of chitosan per day.

...wound healing

Chitin is one of the most important substances for patients with burn wounds. It has remarkable compatibility with living tissue. Scientists have noticed that thanks to this substance, wounds heal faster. It turned out that the acidic mixture of chitin accelerates the healing of injuries after burns of varying degrees. But the study of this ability of chitin continues.

…mineralization

This polysaccharide plays a crucial role in the mineralization of various tissues. And the main example of this is mollusk shells. Researchers, having studied this ability of chitin, have high hopes for this substance as a component for the restoration of bone tissue.

“Did you order locusts for lunch?”

Chitosan burst into the food industry in the 1990s. When advertising a new dietary supplement, manufacturers repeated that it helps reduce weight and cholesterol, prevents osteoporosis, hypertension, and stomach ulcers.

But, of course, the use of chitin in food did not begin at the end of the last century. This tradition is at least several thousand years old. Residents of the Middle East and Africa have consumed locusts since time immemorial as a healthy and nutritious dish. There are references to insects as food on the pages of the Old Testament, in the records of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus, in the ancient Roman annals, in the books of Islamists and in the legends of the Aztecs.

Among some African peoples, dried locusts with milk were considered a traditional dish. In the East there was a tradition of presenting insects to the husband as the highest gift. In Sudan, termites were considered a delicacy, and boiled ants were the highlight of Aztec dinner parties.

There are now different opinions regarding such gastronomic tastes. But in many Eastern countries they still sell fried locusts, in Mexico they cook grasshoppers and bedbugs, Filipinos enjoy various dishes made from crickets, and in Thailand tourists are willing to be offered specific delicacies made from beetle larvae, crickets, caterpillars and dragonfly dishes.

Are grasshoppers an alternative to meat?

Beetle-eating is treated differently in the modern world. Some people get hot just from the thought that someone somewhere is clicking cockroaches instead of seeds. Others decide to taste gastronomic exoticism while traveling the world. And for still others, grasshoppers and all the chitinous brethren serve as ordinary food, which remains held in high esteem for hundreds of years.

This fact could not but interest researchers. They began to study what benefits a person can get from consuming insects. As one would expect, scientists have determined that all this “buzzing exotica” supplies humans with chitin, which is undoubtedly a plus.

In addition, during studies of the chemical composition of insects, it turned out that some contain almost as much protein as beef meat. For example, 100 g of grasshoppers contain 20.5 g of protein, which is only 2 g less than beef. Dung beetles have about 17 grams of protein, termites have 14 grams, and bees have about 13 grams of protein. And everything would be fine, but collecting 100 grams of insects is much harder than buying a 100 gram piece of meat.

Be that as it may, at the end of the 19th century, the British Vincent Holt founded a new movement for gourmets and called it entomophagy. Adherents of this movement, instead of meat-eating or vegetarianism, “professed” eating insects. Proponents of this diet considered their chitin-rich diet almost medicinal. And the dishes from their menu are healthier and cleaner than animal products.

How to get the most chitin from food

Shrimp belongs to the list of foods with the maximum chitin content. But if you really want to get the maximum substance from this product, then preference should be given not to the royal ones, but to smaller specimens. Their shells are easier to chew, and the chitin from them is more easily absorbed by the body. If you take fish as a source of chitin, then it must be cooked exclusively with scales. Well, don’t forget about mushrooms, from which you can prepare dozens of dishes. And the best part is that you don’t have to chew on anyone’s shells or scales.

Pharmaceutical analogue

Fried grasshoppers, cockroaches or dung beetles are, of course, not a unique source of chitin. A modern person can easily replenish the body’s reserves of the substance by avoiding such exotic cuisine. It’s not for nothing that researchers have been learning to isolate this useful component from natural sources for decades.

In the Soviet Union, for example, a medicine containing chitin appeared in the second half of the twentieth century. True, at that time this development was kept classified as “Secret”. Soviet scientists, after a series of experiments on mice, dogs and monkeys, proved the effectiveness of chitin in treating radiation. A few years later, the effectiveness of the drug was tested in humans.

Then it turned out that, in addition to protection from radio radiation, this substance is effective against allergies, cancer, intestinal dysfunction and hypertension. Today, research continues. And not so long ago, scientists were able to obtain chitosan from bees. This event served as a new impetus for the development of the science of chitinology.

Consumption standards

A safe dose of chitin is considered to be a daily portion not exceeding 3 g. Otherwise, instead of improving motility, the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract may be impaired.

Meanwhile, more active consumption of this polysaccharide is allowed for people with excess weight and high cholesterol. It is also worth paying attention to the maximum allowed daily allowances of chitin for fatty liver degeneration, impaired metabolism, diabetes mellitus and allergic conditions. In addition, people with diabetes, frequent constipation, intoxication, and also after skin transplantation feel an increased need for chitin.

On the contrary, it is not advisable for people with dysbacteriosis, flatulence, gastritis, pancreatitis, or inflammation in the digestive organs to become overly fond of mushrooms and crustaceans.

Side effects

Research confirms that chitin has an extremely low level of toxicity. Side effects may occur in people with shellfish allergies. This usually manifests itself in the form of constipation and flatulence. Excessive consumption of chitosan complicates the functioning of the digestive system, even to the point of complete blockage.

How to recognize a deficiency

Elevated cholesterol levels are one of the symptoms of chitin deficiency. Impaired kidney function may also indicate a lack of substances from mollusk shells. And even pediculosis (lice), as some researchers say, also appears when the body lacks chitin.

Other symptoms include:

• physical weakness;
• loss of appetite;
• obesity;
• sleep disturbance;
• frequent allergies;
• intestinal disorders;
• joint pain;
• excess waste.

What are the benefits of old crabs?

Plants serve as a source of cellulose for humans, which is, so to speak, a natural analogue of plastic. Many years ago, scientists learned to make many things from this material, including plastic and viscose.

But some animals can also produce natural “plastic.” And in the world of fauna it is chitin. For many years, crab meat was used in the food industry, and the shells of these crustaceans were thrown away. Several thousand tons annually. And all because scientists could not figure out how to extract chitin from these shells. It was only in 1975 that chemists were able for the first time to isolate the necessary substance from the armor and process it into the desired form. This is how a surgical thread appeared, which does not cause allergies, promotes rapid healing of wounds, and then dissolves in the body. This discovery served as an incredible impetus in the development of medicine. It's hard to believe, but all this is thanks to crab shells, which until recently were thrown away as garbage.

Areas of use of chitin

Man has found many ways to use chitin for his own benefit. So in medicine, durable chitin is used to create surgical threads. Because of its ability to quickly absorb water, it has become a part of tampons and sponges. Chitin has strong antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. For this reason, it often serves as an additional component of medical bandages and dressings.

In the digestive industry, chitin is included in many products as a thickening component. In addition, the substance is used to purify water from fats, heavy metal salts, toxins, and as a component of pet food. It is also included in many cosmetics and even serves as a component for making underwear. Chitin is used in biomedicine, microbiology, and agriculture. To combat mites, beekeepers use apizan, a product created on the basis of low molecular weight chitosan.

Chitin in cosmetology

Recently, chitin-based preparations have been gaining popularity among the range of cosmetic products. Modern shampoos, conditioners and hair styling products, toothpastes, creams and gels quite often contain this useful polysaccharide. The extract obtained from crustacean shells restores elasticity to the skin, strengthens nails, and covers hair with a protective film. If we talk about hair, then thanks to the chitin “coating” it is easier to comb, acquires a healthy shine, does not become electrified, and looks more voluminous. And yet they retain the ability to breathe.

New generation anti-aging cosmetics contain a chitin derivative – chitosan. It smooths out wrinkles, refreshes skin color, and improves blood circulation. The same substance is included in anti-obesity drugs, as it helps remove excess fluid and toxins from body tissues.

Chitin recipes

Traditional healers also never ignored chitin. In particular, bees and their metabolic products have always been valued in Rus'. But now - about bees, as a source of useful chitin. The preparation of many medicinal products is based on dead bees (dead insects). They serve as a source of chitin. Most often, water and alcohol tinctures are prepared from dead bees. These remedies in folk medicine were used to quickly heal wounds, prevent the formation of scars, and also as a hemostatic, analgesic and general strengthening agent.

Alcohol tincture to strengthen the body

Ingredients:

• dead bees – 1 tablespoon;
• alcohol 40 percent.

How to cook

Grind the dead bees (you can use a coffee grinder) and add alcohol. Leave the mixture for 21 days in a dark place. During this time, shake the mixture regularly (at least once a day). Store in a tightly closed container in a dark place.

The product is taken to strengthen the immune system and cleanse the body.

Water infusion for weight loss

Ingredients:

• dead bees – 2 tablespoons;
• boiling water – 500 ml.

How to cook

Pour boiling water over the dead meat, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 2 hours. Strain, cool. Take 1 tablespoon three times a day before meals (half an hour before).

The product regulates hormonal balance, accelerates fat burning, and promotes weight loss.

Powder against tuberculosis (from mole cricket)

Two days before preparing the recipe, the bear is put on a “starvation ration.” This technique allows you to cleanse the insect's digestive tract. Then disinfect with alcohol. And only after that they start drying. It is best to dry it in the oven at low temperature. Grind dried insects in a coffee grinder. Take, mixed with honey, 2-3 times a day. Single dosage – 1 teaspoon.

Chitin has remained an unsolved substance for researchers for a long time. But every year scientists are learning more and more about this unique polysaccharide. And the more discoveries they make, the more they admire the properties of chitin. And not so long ago, scientists started talking about the potential possibility of creating an unlimited number of products from chitin. How realistic these ideas are remains to be seen.

Chitin (physical) is the substance that mainly makes up the upper cuticular cover of arthropods, called chitinous, or even sometimes just X., which, of course, is not entirely accurate. X. is a nitrogenous substance, but exhibits some features of carbohydrates. Sundvik believes that X. is an amine derivative of a carbohydrate with the general formula n(C 12 H20 O10), and according to Kirch, X. is a product of the breakdown of protein bodies, in which glycogen is formed as a by-product. The formula of X according to Zundvik is: H 100 N8 O38 + n(H2 O), where n ranges between 1 and 4. The similarity with carbohydrates, according to Zander, is expressed in the same reaction upon the action of iodine in the presence of zinc chloride, with deeper layers of X . are painted purple. Pure X. has the form of a colorless amorphous substance, insoluble in boiling water, alcohol, ether, alkalis and acids. It dissolves in concentrated mineral acids, but at the same time it decomposes. X., in addition to arthropods, is also found in other invertebrates, for example. in brachiopods, annelids and roundworms, protozoa. However, in many cases the similarity of substances described as chitinous is doubtful. In fungi, the cell walls, it turns out, contain nitrogen and are close in composition to X. The chitinous layer of arthropods and others is a derivative of the chitinous layer (see) underlying it, but it is not a liquid, then hardening secretion of the chitinous layer. According to the observations of Holmgren on insects, and mainly by Tullberg on lobsters, the young chitinous layer has a distinct rod-shaped or columnar structure. These rods represent a continuation of the fibers into which the outer parts of the protoplasm of chitinogenic cells break down and which are now compared with the ciliated hairs of the ciliated epithelium, and between these rods a layered substance is already deposited (in the lobster), filling the gaps between them and giving X. its usual layered structure. Thus, one must think that the chitinous layer is the result of modification of the protoplasm of chitinous cells. On the surface of the chitinous layer one can notice a thin layer of cuticle, which is the earliest to form and probably corresponds to the cuticular cover of prototracheals (see). On the surface of the chitinous layer, various sculptural patterns are also noticeable, most often representing an imprint of the cells of the chitinous layer, as well as tubercles, spines, ribs, folds, hairs, scales, etc. The hardness of the chitinous cover is different and does not depend on its thickness. At the joints of two chitinous segments, the chitinous layer is very often very thick, but it is softer and more flexible, which makes the joint movable. This flexible layer is called the arthrodial or articular membrane. Sometimes the articular membrane grows extremely and thickens, as is the case in arthropods that swell due to various conditions, for example. in female termites, in fleas that swell when sucked (Sarcopsylla, Vermipsylla), in ticks, etc. Sometimes the chitinous cover is impregnated with calcareous deposits, as, for example, in many crustaceans (see), and thanks to this it receives special hardness and fragility, which at the same time, it makes molting more difficult and more painful, since the young chitinous cover is devoid of lime and soft, and therefore, the animal must get sick and wait in a shelter until the cover takes on its usual hardness.
Δ.

Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron. - St. Petersburg: Brockhaus-Efron. 1890-1907 .

See what “Chitin” is in other dictionaries:

- (new Latin, from Greek chiton tunic). A substance contained in the outer coverings of articulated animals, as well as in the horny parts of the body in general. Dictionary of foreign words included in the Russian language. Chudinov A.N., 1910. CHITIN is the main component ... Dictionary of foreign words of the Russian language

Supporting polysaccharide of invertebrates (forms the basis of the exoskeleton of arthropods) and a component of the cell wall of fungi and some green algae. A linear polymer of N acetyl O glucosamine residues connected by (? 1,4 glycosidic bonds; in... ... Biological encyclopedic dictionary

CHITIN, a hard, tough substance widely distributed in nature; in particular, it is used to make the hard shells (EXOSKELETONS) of ARTHROPODS such as crabs, insects, spiders and related species. Walls of the hyphae of microscopic fungal tubes... ... Scientific and technical encyclopedic dictionary

A polysaccharide formed by amino sugar residues of acetylglucosamine. The main component of the exoskeleton (cuticle) of insects, crustaceans and other arthropods. In mushrooms it replaces cellulose, with which it is similar in chemical and physical properties... ... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

CHITIN, chitin, husband. (from Greek chiton chiton) (zool.). The substance that makes up the hard outer covering of arthropods (insects, crayfish, etc.). Ushakov's explanatory dictionary. D.N. Ushakov. 1935 1940 … Ushakov's Explanatory Dictionary

TSIGELNIKOV Patronymic from the father's name according to his profession: Tsigelnik, brick factory worker (from German: Ziegel brick). (N). (Source: “Dictionary of Russian surnames.” (“Onomasticon”)) ... Russian surnames

Supporting polysaccharide of invertebrates (exoskeleton of arthropods) and component of the cell wall of fungi and some green algae. A linear polymer from N-acetyl-O-glucosamine residues in the cell wall, forms (like cellulose, murein)... ... Dictionary of microbiology

Exist., number of synonyms: 1 polysaccharide (36) ASIS Dictionary of Synonyms. V.N. Trishin. 2013… Synonym dictionary

- [χιτών (υpiton) clothing, shell, shell] is the only nitrogen source known in nature. polysaccharide (see Carbohydrates), an analogue of fiber. X. is part of the outer integument of many invertebrate arthropods, mollusks... Geological encyclopedia

chitin- A water-insoluble polysaccharide polymer consisting of N acetyl D glucosoamine molecular units, forming the exoskeleton of insects, crustaceans and the cell wall of fungi. Topics... ... Technical Translator's Guide

Structural formula of the chitin molecule Chitin (C8H13 ... Wikipedia

Books

• Scientific foundations of chemical technology of carbohydrates. The collective monograph offered to the reader summarizes the scientific achievements of the last decade in the field of carbohydrate chemistry. For the first time, the structural features,...

Chitin– natural aminopolysaccharide. In terms of prevalence in wildlife, it ranks second after cellulose. In the organisms of arthropods (crabs, lobsters, crayfish, krill, etc.), insects (bees, beetles, etc.), fungal and yeast cells, diatoms, chitin, in combination with minerals, proteins and melanins, forms the exoskeleton and internal support structures. Chitin biosynthesis occurs in special cellular organelles (chitosomes) with the participation of the enzyme chitin synthetase through sequential transfer of residues N-acetyl- D-glucosamine from uridine phosphate- N-acetyl- D-glucosamine onto the growing polymer chain.

Receipt

The most accessible and large-scale source of chitin for industrial development is the shells of commercial crustaceans. Since chitin is insoluble in water, it cannot be isolated from the shell directly. To obtain it, it is necessary to sequentially separate the protein and mineral components of the shell, i.e. transform them into a soluble state and remove them. A generalized scheme for the production of chitin is shown in Fig. 1.

Fig.1. Stages of the chitin production process.

There are several ways to extract chitin from chitin-containing raw materials: chemical, biotechnological, electrochemical.

Chemical method isolating chitin from shell-containing raw materials involves carrying out the stages of deproteination, demineralization and depigmentation using chemical reagents - acids, alkalis, peroxides, surfactants, etc.

Advantages of the chemical method for producing chitin: high degree of deproteination and demineralization of the polysaccharide; relative availability of inexpensive reagents; relatively short time to obtain the finished product. Disadvantages: environmental hazard due to the use of concentrated reagents and the formation of large volumes of acid-base, salt and organic waste; the need to use sufficiently concentrated solutions of chemical reagents that cause deterioration in the quality of target products, which is due to the processes of destruction of chitin, hydrolysis and chemical modification of proteins and lipids; use of corrosion-resistant equipment; high water consumption for technological needs and repeated washings.

Biotechnological method consists of using enzymes to remove residual protein and minerals. Enzymes and enzyme preparations of microbiological and animal origin are used. Advantages of biotechnological methods for deproteination and demineralization of chitin: “gentle” conditions are used, which allows the native properties of chitin and protein to be preserved to the greatest extent; the resulting protein products practically do not contain sodium chloride, the presence of which is inevitable in the case of using acid-base solutions; the use of a number of enzyme preparations makes it possible to combine several operations, which simplifies the process; reduction, compared to the acid-base method, of the aggressiveness of the reaction medium, which, in turn, reduces equipment costs and increases its service life; the possibility of carrying out the production of chitin in ship conditions directly together with the catch of raw materials.

However, biomethods are not without significant drawbacks. This is a low degree of deproteination of chitin even when several sequential treatments are used in freshly inoculated enzymes, which is due to the presence of part of the protein in a form inaccessible to proteolytic enzymes. Multi-stage and duration of processing. Use of expensive enzymes or bacterial strains. Finally, the need to ensure sterile production.

Electrochemical method is an alternative to chemical and biotechnological methods, and allows in one technological process to obtain chitin of a sufficiently high degree of purification and nutritionally valuable protein and lipids.

The essence of the technology for producing chitin is to carry out the stages of deproteination, demineralization and bleaching of shell-containing raw materials in the form of a water-salt suspension in electrolyzers of an original design under the influence of an electromagnetic field, a directed flow of ions and H + - and OH - - ions and a number of low molecular weights formed as a result of the electrolysis of water products that determine the acidic and alkaline reaction of the environment and its redox potential, respectively.

The advantages of electrochemical technology for the production of chitin include: the possibility of obtaining in one technological cycle all valuable components of raw materials with maximum yield while maintaining their biological and functional properties due to gentle processing conditions; eliminating the need to use acids, alkalis and enzymes, and, accordingly, reducing environmental burden on the environment; reducing fresh water consumption for flushing; process intensification; increasing the wear resistance of equipment due to the absence of aggressive environments; the ability to quickly change the productivity and technological scheme of the process; the possibility of obtaining a wide range of chitin derivatives.

general characteristics

When it comes to chitin, school biology lessons immediately come to mind. Arthropods, crustaceans and everything connected with them...

But despite this, chitin also turned out to be very useful for humans.

Chitin is a polysaccharide that belongs to the group of difficult-to-digest carbohydrates. In its physicochemical properties, as well as its biological role, it is close to plant fiber.

Chitin is part of the cell membrane of fungi, as well as some bacteria.

Formed from amino sugar residues of acetylglucosamine, chitin is one of the most abundant polysaccharides in nature.

This is a substance found in fungi, bacteria, and arthropods. Several types of chitin have been isolated, differing in their chemical composition and properties.

Opening

Chitin was first discovered in 1821 by the director of the botanical garden, Henry Bracon. During chemical experiments, he discovered a substance that could not be dissolved in sulfuric acid. And two years later, chitin was extracted from tarantula shells. At the same time, the term “chitin” was proposed by the French scientist Odier, who studied the substance using the outer shells (external skeleton) of insects.

Beneficial properties of chitin and its effect on the body

Based on some medical studies, conclusions have been drawn about the benefits of chitin for the human body. Chitin is used for hypertension, obesity, diabetes, as an immunomodulatory substance that prevents early aging of the body. Just like fiber, chitin improves the functioning of the intestines, facilitating the evacuation of contents, and cleanses the intestinal villi well. Cleans blood vessels from harmful cholesterol.

The latest medical research indicates the benefits of chitin in the prevention and treatment of many cancers.

Products with the highest chitin content

Indicated approximate amount (g) per 100 g of product

• Squid Gladius 35
• Lobsters 8
• Milk mushrooms 3.7
• Crayfish 35
• Snow white mushroom 6.7
• Antarctic krill 3
• Crabs (shell) 32.4
• Gamarus 6.2
• Russula 3
• Moss mushroom (Polish mushroom) 15.7
• Japanese mushroom 5
• Champignons 2
• Shrimp 9.7
• Ryzhiki 5
• Baker's yeast 2

Daily requirement for chitin

Consuming more than 3000 mg per day can lead to problems with the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the golden mean when using any nutritional components.

The need for chitin increases:

• with excess body weight;
• violation of fat metabolism in the body;
• high blood cholesterol levels;
• liver steatosis;
• with excess fat in the diet;
• frequent constipation;
• diabetes mellitus;
• allergies and intoxication of the body.

The need for chitin is reduced:

• with excessive gas formation;
• dysbacteriosis;
• gastritis, pancreatitis and other inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Digestibility of chitin

Chitin is a solid, transparent substance that is not digested by the human body. Like cellulose, chitin improves gastrointestinal motility and also has other beneficial properties for the body.

Interaction with other elements

Chitin interacts with polysaccharides and proteins. Insoluble in water and other organic solvents, although it is capable of retaining moisture in the body. When heated, interacting with certain salts, it is hydrolyzed, that is, destroyed. Reduces the absorption of chlorine ions into the circulatory system, thereby correcting the water-salt balance in the body.

Signs of a lack of chitin in the body:

• obesity, overweight;
• sluggish functioning of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT);
• unpleasant body odor (excess waste and toxins);
• frequent allergic diseases;
• problems with cartilage and joints.

Signs of excess chitin in the body:

• disturbances in the functioning of the stomach (nausea);
• flatulence, bloating;
• discomfort in the pancreas area;
• allergic reactions to chitin.

Factors influencing the content of chitin in the body

The human body does not produce chitin on its own, so its content in the body depends entirely on its availability in the diet. Based on this, it follows that if you want to be healthy, you need to regularly consume chitin in the form of its monomer, chitosan.

Chitin for beauty and health

Recently, cosmetologists are increasingly writing about the positive effect discovered from the use of medicinal and cosmetic products with chitin. It is added to shampoos to increase hair volume and elasticity, used in lotions, added to creams, shower gels, and personal hygiene products (gel toothpastes). It is included in various styling sprays and varnishes.

Chitin is used as dietary supplements in the diet to improve skin elasticity, as an anti-inflammatory and moisturizing agent. Creates a protective film on the skin and hair, thereby facilitating the combing process, prevents the skin from losing moisture and brittle nails.

Argentine scientists have identified the peculiarity of chitin as an assistant regenerator for the speedy healing of the skin when damaged. In addition, chitin is transformed by heating into a new water-soluble substance, chitosan, which is part of anti-aging cosmetics. Thanks to anti-aging cosmetics, the skin smoothes out faster and wrinkles become less noticeable. The skin takes on a fresher and more youthful appearance, thanks to the property of chitin to relieve spasm of the smallest capillaries of the skin.

As for the benefits of chitin for slimming your figure, it is obvious. Chitosan is also called animal fiber, which binds in the body and removes excess fat, helps with overeating, increases the number of bifidobacteria in the intestines and gently helps reduce excess weight. In addition, it is responsible for the adsorption of pollutants, after the evacuation of which our body feels light and free.

Chitin diet

The chitin diet is based on the consumption of foods that contain this same chitin. But this does not mean that you will have to eat beetles or fried grasshoppers throughout your diet, because this substance is also found in many seasonings.

The chitin diet belongs to the category of low-calorie diets. The fact is that foods rich in chitin contain a small amount of fat, for example, 100 g of grasshoppers contains 20.6% protein and only 6.1% fat, while 100 g of beef contains approximately the same amount of protein. and 2-3 times more fat. It is difficult to get enough of insects, but if you cook them correctly, you can get various dietary dishes that will help you lose weight.

Chitin and photography

In photographic processes associated with rapid image development, such important characteristics of chitosan are used as its film-forming properties, behavior in systems containing gelatin and silver complexes, ensuring the absence of transverse (in film layers) diffusion of the dye, and optical characteristics of the polymer.

Modern research

And today, research on chitosan and chitin continues. In Russia, they are studied by scientists who are members of the Russian Chitin Society, created in 2000. Its members include not only those researchers who directly study these substances, but also representatives of other fields of science, as well as agriculture, medicine and industry. The best chitinologists in the West are awarded a special Braconn Prize. It got its name in honor of Braconno, who was the discoverer of chitin. In our country, a similar award is named in honor of Pavel Shorygin. This academician is a chitin research enthusiast.

Now these beetles are just hatching from pupae that overwintered in the soil, breaking through and setting off in search of partners. May beetles are excellent flyers, and when their wings are folded, they are hidden and reliably protected, like a shell, by elytra made of durable and flexible chitin. This amazing substance, important for fungi and arthropods, as well as in what areas people use chitin and its transformation products, will be discussed in today’s picture of the day.

In the twentieth century, chemists began to look for potential uses of chitin and discovered that it had a number of beneficial properties. Chitin is non-toxic and biodegradable, which makes it less hazardous to the environment compared to synthetic polymers polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate. Chitin also has antimicrobial properties, thereby providing the fruiting bodies of fungi and the shells of arthropods with not only mechanical, but also antibacterial protection.

Interest in the industrial use of chitin began in the late 1930s and early 1940s, but it took decades for chitin to compete with synthetic polymers. Large-scale chitin production began in the 1970s, when many countries introduced legislative restrictions on the discharge of chitin-containing waste from seafood production into coastal waters. Chitin can be easily isolated from the inedible shells of crabs, lobsters and shrimp by treating this biological material with solvents, and isolating chitin with its further use is a completely cost-effective and realistic way to eliminate tens of tons of waste. Chitin is used in many areas: it is added to cosmetic creams and powders, it is one of the most popular materials for making surgical threads, since medical suture material made from chitin fibers breaks down over time and surgeons do not need to remove sutures.

Along with chitin, its derivatives are used, the most useful of which is chitosan, which can be isolated directly from raw material - crustacean shells - as a result of treatment with sodium hydroxide. The properties of chitosan are similar to those of chitin, but chitosan has higher solubility in water. This chitin derivative is used to create an antibacterial dressing material in medicine, as a protective coating for plant seeds intended for planting, and even as an additive that slows down the souring of wine. Recently, chitosan has been advertised as a food supplement that binds fats in the digestive system and promotes weight loss, but these properties cannot be considered proven. So, if someone is trying to lose weight by taking chitosan with food and doing nothing else to lose weight, they can hardly expect the desired result. But even if we do not take into account this last, frankly dubious, use, the market for chitin is growing every year - in 2015 it was worth 63 billion US dollars. Which is not bad for a substance that is extracted from food industry waste.

Arkady Kuramshin