chitin

Introduction

A linear polymer of N-acetylglucosamine linked beta(1->4) similar in structure to cellulose. It is the 2nd most abundant polysaccharide in nature. It comprises the horny substance in the exoskeleton of beetles & crabs. It is also produced by microorganisms, plants & fungi.

More general terms

• polysaccharide (complex carbohydrate, glycan)

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=453624