How would you describe algin?
1 Answer
Align is an anionic polysaccharide distributed widely in the cell walls of brown algae.
Explanation:
It is a linear copolymer with homopolymeric blocks of (1-4)-linked beta-D-mannuronate and its C-5 epimer alpha-L-guluronate residues, covalently linked together in different sequences or blocks. It is a significant component of the bio films produced by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the major pathogen in cystic fibrosis. It confers a high resistance to antibiotics and killings by macrophages.
Align absorbs water quickly, which makes it useful as an additive in dehydrated products, and in the manufacture of paper and textiles. It is also used for waterproofing and fireproofing fabrics, as a thickening agent in food and cosmetics, and as a gelling agent.
It's colour ranges from white to yellowish brown.
