Chitin Bonus Part: Chitosan, Chitosan Oligosaccharides

Chitosan, Chitosan Oligosaccharides, and Their Role in Human Health and Bioavailability

Most people know chitin as a structural fiber from crustacean shells or fungi. But when processed properly, chitin transforms into chitosan and chitosan oligosaccharides (COS)—next-generation bioactive compounds that offer unique health benefits and superior supplement performance. This article explores the science, benefits, and production of these advanced chitin derivatives, including how they work in Florida Shroom King’s liposomal mushroom extract formulas.


Chitosan and Its Oligosaccharides: What They Are and How They Differ

From Chitin to Chitosan: A Controlled Deacetylation Process

Chitosan is formed by removing acetyl groups from chitin using alkaline or enzymatic processes. The result is a cationic, water-soluble polysaccharide that retains chitin's structure but gains new biological properties (Rinaudo, 2006).

Chitosan Oligosaccharides (COS): Short Chains, Big Benefits

COS are low-molecular-weight fractions of chitosan (typically <10 kDa). Due to their size, COS are more bioavailable, more soluble, and capable of passing through epithelial barriers, including those in the gut and skin (Younes & Rinaudo, 2015).


Production Technologies: From Harsh Alkalis to Low-Acid Ultrasound

Traditional Chemical Hydrolysis vs. Green Extraction

Most chitosan is produced using high-temperature sodium hydroxide. This method yields high output but degrades many bioactive functions and introduces chemical residues (Kurita, 2006).

Low-Acid Ultrasound Processing: The Future of Chitosan Purity

Florida Shroom King employs low-acid ultrasound-assisted extraction, which uses:

  • Mild organic acids (like lactic or acetic)

  • High-frequency sound waves

  • Controlled temperature (<60°C)

This preserves bioactivity, enhances molecular uniformity, and ensures food-grade safety in liposomal encapsulation systems.


Human Health Applications of Advanced Chitosan Forms

Gut Health and Prebiotic Action

Chitosan and COS selectively promote Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium growth. They ferment in the colon to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, which fuel gut barrier integrity (Yadav et al., 2019).

Cholesterol and Lipid Regulation

Chitosan binds to bile acids and dietary fats, preventing reabsorption in the small intestine. Clinical trials report reductions in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides with consistent chitosan supplementation (Tapola et al., 2008).

Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Mechanisms

Chitosan’s positive charge interacts with microbial membranes, disrupting pathogens like E. coli and Candida. It also inhibits NF-κB signaling, reducing systemic inflammation in both humans and animals (Jayakumar et al., 2011).


Bioavailability and Liposomal Delivery: Chitosan as a Natural Enhancer

Mucoadhesion and Sustained Absorption

Chitosan adheres to mucosal linings, extending intestinal residence time for co-administered compounds. This enhances the absorption of polyphenols, vitamins, and mushroom-derived triterpenoids (Xu et al., 2017).

Liposomal Encapsulation with Chitosan Matrices

Liposomal delivery is ideal for fragile compounds like ergothioneine and betulinic acid. A chitosan coating:

  • Stabilizes the liposome

  • Prevents premature breakdown

  • Facilitates targeted release in the small intestine

Application in Mushroom Extracts: The MycoTone Edge

Florida Shroom King’s MycoTone liposomal mushroom blends combine:

  • Ultrasound-extracted Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Chaga, and Turkey Tail

  • Chitosan-bound liposomes for superior absorption

  • Clean-label, bioavailable delivery for immune and cognitive support

This matrix not only increases systemic uptake but also synergizes with beta-glucans and triterpenes for more pronounced results.


Safety and Regulatory Status of Chitosan and COS

Chitosan is GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) in the U.S. and approved for dietary use in:

  • US, EU, Japan, Canada, and Australia

  • Over 500 clinical trials globally have shown it to be safe with no major toxicity when used at standard doses (<4g/day)

 



Chitosan as the Delivery Matrix of the Future

Advanced forms of chitin such as chitosan and COS are revolutionizing the supplement space. Whether supporting gut health, lowering lipids, or boosting absorption of medicinal mushroom compounds, these biopolymers combine ancient natural wisdom with modern biotechnology. With innovations like low-acid ultrasound processing and chitosan-liposomal synergy, Florida Shroom King is leading the way in functional extract delivery.

Chitin Part 1: What Is Chitin?
Chitin Part 3: Chitin And Soil Health
Chitin Bonus Part: Chitin Bonus Part: Chitosan, Chitosan Oligosaccharides

Q&A: Advanced Chitin Derivatives Explained

Q1: What’s the difference between chitosan and chitin?
A1: Chitosan is the deacetylated, water-soluble form of chitin with enhanced bioactivity and solubility.

Q2: Are chitosan oligosaccharides better absorbed than regular chitosan?
A2: Yes. COS are smaller and more bioavailable, capable of crossing gut and skin barriers more effectively.

Q3: Is chitosan vegan?
A3: Shellfish-based chitosan is not, but fungal-sourced chitosan (from mushrooms) is 100% vegan.

Q4: What are the benefits of chitosan in supplements?
A4: Improved nutrient absorption, gut barrier protection, cholesterol reduction, and antimicrobial defense.

Q5: How does chitosan help mushroom extract absorption?
A5: It stabilizes and delivers actives like triterpenes and beta-glucans through mucosal adhesion and liposomal protection.

Q6: What is low-acid ultrasound extraction?
A6: A green technology that uses mild acids and ultrasonic waves to extract high-purity, bioactive chitosan without harsh chemicals.

Q7: Is chitosan safe for daily use?
A7: Yes. It’s well-tolerated at moderate doses and is approved in multiple countries for long-term use.


References 

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