Properties and Applications of Cyclodextrins

Cyclodextrins are enzymatically modified starches consisting of 6, 7, or 8 α-1,4-linked glucose monomers. The interior of the cyclodextrin is apolar and can associate with various organic molecules to form inclusion complexes. The cyclodextrins are chemically and physically stable, and they undergo the same reactions as other carbohydrates. The hydroxyl groups of the cyclodextrin can be substituted to change the solubility of cyclodextrin in water and in other solvents, and to change the binding strength between the cyclodextrin and the guest compound. Cyclodextrins and their derivatives have a wide variety of applications. Solubility of guest compounds can be altered to make them more soluble or less soluble. Cyclodextrins can be used to protect compounds against the effects of light, heat, and oxygen. Volatility of compounds can be reduced to give increased shelf life and reduced release of compounds into the environment. Cyclodextrins can be used as process aids to remove or isolate specific compounds from a mixture.