Structure-function relationships of chitosans – material properties and macromolecular interactions

• Applicant: Dr. Margareta Hellmann
• Subject Area: Biomaterials ; Biochemistry
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 585978741

Chitosans are a diverse family of polysaccharides with mostly still enigmatic natural functions and large potential for the growing bioeconomy. However, these polymers can differ strongly in their structural parameters, which, in turn, influence their material and biological properties. Accordingly, the use of insufficiently characterised chitosans is currently leading to problems with reproducibility in research and applications in fields such as biomedicine, agriculture, and food industry. Hence, robust structure-function relationships are needed if we aim to understand the physiological roles of natural chitosans in complex matrices such as fungal cell walls, and to ensure the reliable application of these biomaterials. In this project, I want to understand how the structure of chitosans governs their physicochemical properties. Therefore, I will prepare a set of very well-defined chitosan samples which I will subsequently use to establish relationships between individual structural parameters and a) material properties and b) interactions with mucins and pectins. The results will give insight into the molecular basis of the respective chitosan properties and will help to guide the selection of the optimal sample for different applications.

• DFG Programme: Fellowship
• International Connection: Spain
• Host: Professor Dr. Francisco M. Goycoolea