Novel functions and applications of trehalose*
Takanobu Higashiyama
Amase Institute of Hayashibara Biochemical Laboratory,
Inc., 7-7 Amase Minami-Machi Okayama 700-0834, Japan
Abstract: Trehalose is a disaccharide with important
functional properties. Although these properties have been recognized
for many years, trehalose was not produced on an industrial scale. Recently,
a novel enzymatic system for the production of trehalose was developed,
and the cost has been dramatically reduced enough to permit widespread
application. In the present study, the stabilization mechanism of unsaturated
fatty acids by trehalose was found. Furthermore, possible suppressive
effects of trehalose on osteoporosis development emerged from our experiments.
Trehalose is also expected to be used for various applications in the
fields of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
* A special topic issue on the
science of sweeteners.
** Corresponding author.
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