A glucosyl unit is a building block of starch and consists of a single glucose molecule. It is the basic repeating unit of starch and is made up of chains of glucose units that are linked by glycosidic bonds. The number and arrangement of glucosyl units in starch molecules determine the physical and functional properties of starch.
The glucosyl unit has various applications, including:
- Food industry: The glucosyl unit is used to modify starches to produce modified starches with improved properties, such as viscosity, stability, and water resistance.
- Biorefining: The glucosyl unit is used to produce bio-based chemicals and materials, such as biofuels, bioplastics, and biochemicals.
- Pharmaceuticals: The glucosyl unit can be used in the production of pharmaceuticals, such as antifungal drugs, antibacterials, and antivirals.
- Cosmetics: The glucosyl unit is used as a moisturizer in cosmetics and personal care products.
- Agriculture: The glucosyl unit is used as a soil conditioner in agriculture to improve soil health and fertility.