Cyclodextrins: Current and Future Applications

Cyclodextrins are a part of the oligosaccharides family. They consist of 5 or more α-D-glucopyranoside units which are joined by α-1,4 glycosidic bonds similar to amylose. Cyclodextrins are produced by enzymatic conversion of starch and are used extensively in chemical, agriculture, pharmaceutical and food industry. Cholesterol free food products and dryer sheets are some examples of its applications. The number of glucose monomers in a typical cyclodextrin range from six to eight units. Cyclodextrins show a host-guest behaviour which can be manipulated by chemical modification of hydroxyl groups. They are non-toxic in nature. They can also act as precursors to mechanically interlocked molecular architectures like catenanes and rotaxanes. This book presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. Also included herein is a detailed explanation of the various current and future applications of cyclodextrins. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.