The Influence of Amino and Hydroxyl of Chitosan on Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging Activity

In order to determine the effect of the amido and hydroxyl of chitosan on antioxidant activity, a series of N-deacetylated chitosan with a degree of deacetylation (D.D.) ranging from 45% to 95% were prepared using region selective N-acetylation of chitosan. Their carboxymethyl derivatives (CMC) were also synthesized according to previous method. The antioxidant activity was evaluated on the basis of their abilities to scavenge hydroxyl radical. The results indicated that the hydroxyl radical scavenging ability depended on the degree of deacetylation and concentration. It also showed that the 2-NH₂ had a closer relation than 6-OH in hydroxyl radical scavenging activities.