MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Fungal and Microalgal Chitin: Structural Differences, Functional Properties, and Biomedical Applications

Summary

Chitin is a natural fiber found in mushrooms, algae, and shellfish that has many medical and industrial uses. Traditional chitin from shellfish shells has environmental and contamination problems, so scientists are studying chitin from mushrooms and algae as cleaner alternatives. These sources produce chitin with different structures that can be better for certain medical applications, and can be extracted using environmentally friendly methods.

Background

Chitin is the second most abundant natural biopolymer after cellulose, traditionally extracted from crustacean shells. However, crustacean-based chitin production faces limitations including seasonal availability, allergenic protein contamination, heavy metal residues, and environmentally harmful demineralization processes requiring 30-60% mineral removal.

Objective

To synthesize current advances in fungal and microalgal chitin research, comparing structural polymorphs, extraction methods, and structure-function relationships. The review addresses sustainable alternatives to crustacean-derived chitin with focus on biomedical applications and the broader circular bioeconomy framework.

Results

Fungal chitin exists predominantly as α-polymorph embedded in chitin-glucan-protein matrices with high crystallinity and mechanical stability. Microalgal β-chitin from diatoms is secreted as high-aspect-ratio microrods with parallel chain packing, enhanced reactivity, and structural integrity. Green extraction technologies including enzymatic treatments, ionic liquids, and deep eutectic solvents enable sustainable recovery while preserving native morphology.

Conclusion

Fungal and microalgal chitin sources provide sustainable alternatives to crustacean chitin with unique structural polymorphs and tunable properties. Integration of sustainable sources with environmentally friendly processing methods positions fungal and microalgal chitin as promising materials for biomedical applications, advanced materials, agriculture, and food packaging.
  • Published in:Polymers (Basel),
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 41150263
Scroll to Top