Description
α-Cyclodextrin is a cyclic oligosaccharide composed of six glucose molecules linked by α-1,4-glycosidic bonds. It possesses a unique ring-like structure with a hydrophobic interior and a hydrophilic exterior, enabling it to form inclusion complexes with various hydrophobic molecules. This characteristic makes it widely applicable in fields such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and chemical industries.
In the food industry, α-cyclodextrin is commonly used as a stabilizer, solubilizer, or flavor-masking agent to improve the taste and stability of products. In the pharmaceutical field, it can enhance the solubility and bioavailability of drugs or serve as a carrier for drug delivery systems. Additionally, α-cyclodextrin has the ability to adsorb cholesterol, making it useful in functional foods aimed at helping to reduce cholesterol levels.