Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) is a derivative of chitosan, which is itself derived from chitin, a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the shells of crustaceans like shrimp, crabs, and lobsters, as well as in the cell walls of fungi. It’s created by breaking down chitosan into smaller molecules through enzymatic or chemical processes. Today COS is often used in plants. This bioactive compound serves as a natural stimulant, enhancing plant growth, boosting defense mechanisms against pathogens, and improving overall crop resilience.
Where Does Chitosan Oligosaccharide Come From
Chitosan Oligosaccharide (COS) originates from chitosan, a naturally occurring biopolymer derived primarily from the exoskeletons of crustaceans such as crabs, shrimp, and lobsters. These exoskeletons are rich in chitin, a polysaccharide that, when deacetylated (a process of removing acetyl groups), transforms into chitosan. COS is then produced through further enzymatic or chemical hydrolysis of chitosan, breaking it down into smaller, oligomeric fragments. This process not only makes COS more soluble in water compared to its parent polymer but also enhances its bioactivity and biocompatibility.
The appeal of COS lies in its source material—chitin is the second most abundant natural biopolymer on Earth, after cellulose, making COS a sustainable option due to the vast availability of chitin-rich waste from the seafood industry. Instead of discarding these byproducts, they are upcycled into valuable biopolymers. This not only contributes to waste reduction but also taps into a renewable resource, aligning with eco-friendly production practices.
Beyond crustaceans, research is exploring other sources of chitin and subsequently chitosan, including fungi, which could provide a non-animal source for vegan-friendly applications and further diversify the sources of COS. This expansion of source materials is part of the broader effort to enhance the sustainability and accessibility of COS production, catering to a growing demand across various industries for natural and environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic compounds.
What are the Features of COS
Chitosan Oligosaccharide (COS) possesses a unique set of features that distinguish it from other biopolymers like Alginate, Hyaluronic Acid (HA), and Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives and contribute to its widespread applicability across various fields:
Enhanced Antimicrobial Spectrum
COS exhibits a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity that is notably more comprehensive than that of many other biopolymers. Unlike Alginate and Cellulose, which inherently lack antimicrobial properties without chemical modification, COS naturally combats a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This makes it exceptionally valuable for applications requiring sterilization and preservation, from wound dressings to food packaging.
Immunostimulatory Effects
A distinguishing feature of COS is its ability to enhance the immune response in both plants and animals, a property not commonly found in other biopolymers like Hyaluronic Acid or Cellulose derivatives. This immunostimulatory effect makes COS particularly beneficial in agricultural practices to boost plant health and yield, as well as in veterinary applications for improving animal immunity without the use of antibiotics.
Superior Water Solubility at Various pH Levels
While many biopolymers, including Cellulose derivatives, have modified forms to increase their water solubility, COS naturally dissolves in water across a broad range of pH levels. This solubility significantly surpasses that of Alginate and even Hyaluronic Acid in terms of ease of use and application flexibility. The soluble nature of COS allows for its straightforward incorporation into various formulations, enhancing its applicability in diverse fields such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and agriculture without the need for complex solubilization procedures.
Biodegradability with Minimal Environmental Impact
Although all mentioned biopolymers are biodegradable, COS’s degradation products are notably benign, producing minimal environmental impact. This characteristic is particularly important in the context of increasing environmental consciousness and the push for sustainable materials. Unlike some derivatives of Cellulose and other biopolymers that may require specific conditions for complete degradation, COS degrades more readily under natural conditions, making it an environmentally superior choice for applications aimed at reducing pollution and promoting eco-friendliness.
Why Use COS in Agriculture
Applying COS directly to seeds or foliage helps plants grow faster and stronger. It encourages more vigorous root development, leading to healthier plants that can absorb water and nutrients more efficiently. By promoting healthier, more resilient plants, COS contributes to increased crop yields. This is beneficial for farmers looking to produce more food or other agricultural products without expanding their land use.
COS also activates a plant’s natural defense mechanisms, making them more resistant to diseases and pests. This means farmers can use fewer chemical pesticides, leading to safer, more sustainable farming practices.
When added to the soil, COS can help improve soil structure and fertility. This makes the soil a better environment for plant growth, further supporting healthy crops.
Using COS in agriculture is not only effective but also eco-friendly. It offers a natural, biodegradable alternative to chemical treatments, aligning with the global move towards sustainable farming.
As a manufacturer of biofertilizers and biostimulants, we can provide comprehensive COS solutions. Contact us today for your quote!