Low Molecular Weight Chitosan (LMWC for short) is a low-molecular compound obtained by acid hydrolysis or enzymatic hydrolysis of chitosan. It is mainly composed of 2 – 8 glucosamine units and 1 – 3 N-acetylglucosamine units. Due to its low molecular weight and hydrophilicity, low molecular weight chitosan is widely used in medicine, food, cosmetics and other fields, and has a variety of effects.
1. Regulating Blood Lipids
Low molecular weight chitosan can reduce blood lipids through multiple pathways, such as inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption, promoting bile acid excretion, and promoting cholesterol metabolism. Some studies have shown that low molecular weight chitosan can significantly reduce the levels of serum total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL – C), while increasing the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL – C).
2. Reducing Body Weight
Low molecular weight chitosan can reduce body weight by inhibiting fat absorption and promoting fat decomposition. Some studies have shown that low molecular weight chitosan can significantly reduce the body weight and fat mass of mice, and can also improve insulin resistance and glucose tolerance in mice.
3. Improving Gastrointestinal Function
Low molecular weight chitosan has a good gastrointestinal mucosal protection effect and can alleviate symptoms such as gastrointestinal inflammation and ulcers. In addition, low molecular weight chitosan also has the function of regulating intestinal flora, which can promote the growth of beneficial flora and inhibit the reproduction of harmful flora, thereby improving intestinal health.
4. Anti – inflammatory and Antioxidant
Low molecular weight chitosan has anti – inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can improve the symptoms of various diseases. Some studies have shown that low molecular weight chitosan can exert anti – inflammatory effects by inhibiting the synthesis and release of inflammatory mediators, and at the same time can scavenge harmful molecules such as free radicals, thereby exerting antioxidant effects.
5. Antiviral
Low molecular weight chitosan has an antiviral effect and can directly inhibit a variety of viruses, such as influenza virus, HIV virus, etc. Some studies have shown that low molecular weight chitosan can exert antiviral effects by inhibiting virus entry, replication and virus capsid assembly.
In conclusion, low molecular weight chitosan has a variety of effects and can be applied in many fields, such as medicine, food, cosmetics, etc.
With the continuous progress of science and technology and the continuous deepening of research, it is believed that the application field of low molecular weight chitosan will continue to expand, bringing more benefits to mankind.
