What is chitin?

Chitin is a complex carbohydrate, specifically a polysaccharide, that is found in the cell walls of fungi, exoskeletons of arthropods (such as insects and crustaceans), and the outer covering of some other invertebrates. It is one of the most abundant natural polymers on Earth.

Chemically, chitin is composed of repeating units of a nitrogen-containing sugar called N-acetylglucosamine (NAG). These units are linked together by chemical bonds, forming a long chain structure. Chitin is closely related to another carbohydrate called cellulose, which is found in the cell walls of plants.

In nature, chitin serves as a structural component, providing strength, rigidity, and protection to the organisms that possess it. For example, in insects, chitin forms the tough exoskeleton that supports and protects their bodies. In fungi, it forms the cell walls, providing structural integrity.

Chitin has various applications beyond its role in nature. It is utilized in various industries, including agriculture, food processing, biotechnology, and healthcare. It can be processed into chitosan, a derivative of chitin, which has unique properties such as biocompatibility, antimicrobial activity, and the ability to bind to certain substances. Chitosan finds applications in wound healing, drug delivery systems, water treatment, and more.

Overall, chitin is an important natural polymer with diverse biological and industrial significance.