Chitin

Has a positice effect on the growth of certain bacterias [2]. Microcrystalline chitin stimulate the growth af certain bacterias [2]. Chitin in general stimulate human fibroblast proliferation at low concentrations and inhibit proliferation at higher concentrations [3].

Chitin has a positive effect on migration of fibroblasts [3].

Acetylations of 30% and 70% are effective at activating cytotoxic macrophages [2].

Chitin is degradeable by lysozyme. The absorbable degradation products are believed to underlie an observable enhancement in wound healing in vivo [3]. The degradation of chitin by lysozyme is not affected by substitutions at C(6) [2].

Chitin has been reported to be useful as a vehicle for sustained drug-release and dissolution of poorly soluble drugs, e.g. covalently bound herbicides [2].

Can be used as a feed additive for feeding chicks and hens [2].

Chitosan and chitin has been shown to increase the fecal excreation of Fe and lower the hemoglobin levels in rats at high dietary levels. Indications show, that chitin and chitosan cause no damage to the intestinal system, at dietary levels below 10% [2].

The adsorption of blood proteins decrease at the introduction of carboxy groups at C(6) in chitin [2].