Arabinozilanlar

Arabinozilanlar, also known as arabinoxylans, are a group of polysaccharides that are significant components of the plant cell wall, particularly in grasses. They are complex carbohydrates composed of arabinose and xylose sugar units. Arabinoxylans are considered non-starch polysaccharides and are abundant in cereal grains such as wheat, rye, barley, and corn. Their structure can vary, featuring a backbone of β-(1→4)-linked xylose units with arabinose side chains attached, typically at the C-2 or C-3 position of the xylose.

These compounds play a crucial role in plant cell wall structure, providing rigidity and flexibility. In the context of human nutrition, arabinoxylans are recognized for their dietary fiber properties. They are resistant to digestion by human enzymes in the small intestine, reaching the large intestine where they can be fermented by gut bacteria. This fermentation process can lead to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are beneficial for gut health.

The functional properties of arabinoxylans are influenced by their specific structure, including the ratio of arabinose to xylose and the degree of arabinose substitution. These factors affect their solubility, viscosity, and ability to interact with water. In food science, arabinoxylans are used as functional ingredients to modify the texture, water-holding capacity, and shelf-life of various food products. They are also being investigated for their potential health benefits, including effects on blood glucose control and cholesterol levels.