Quitosano

Quitosano, known in English as chitosan, is a natural polysaccharide derived from chitin. It is a partially deacetylated derivative consisting of copolymers of D-glucosamine and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine linked by β-(1→4) glycosidic bonds. It is typically produced by deacetylating chitin, most commonly obtained from crustacean shells, but it is also found in fungi and some exoskeletal tissues.

Quitosano is a cationic polymer in acidic aqueous solutions, biodegradable, biocompatible, and capable of forming films, gels, and fibers. It exhibits antimicrobial properties, metal-chelating ability, and the formation of complexes with anionic polymers and drugs, enabling controlled release and protective coatings.

Production and sources: Crustacean shells (shrimp, crab, lobster) are a major feedstock. The standard processing sequence includes demineralization, deproteinization, and deacetylation, often followed by purification. Alternative sources include fungal-derived quitosano, which may reduce allergen risk.

Applications: In medicine and biotechnology, quitosano is used in wound dressings, drug delivery systems, tissue engineering scaffolds, and hemostatic agents. In agriculture, it serves as a biostimulant, seed coating, and protective agent against pathogens. In water treatment, it acts as a natural flocculant. It is also used in edible films and as a cosmetic ingredient.

Safety and regulation: Generally regarded as safe in various applications, with regulatory status varying by jurisdiction. Potential allergy considerations exist for crustacean-allergic individuals; proper purification reduces risk. As with all biopolymers, product quality, purity, and residual impurities influence safety and performance.