2-Hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin

2-Hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) is a cyclic oligosaccharide composed of seven glucose units and a hydroxypropyl group. It is a water-soluble, non-toxic, and non-immunogenic compound that is widely used in various fields such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and agriculture. In pharmaceuticals, HPβCD is mainly used as a solubilizing and stabilizing agent for poorly water-soluble drugs. It can form inclusion complexes with drug molecules, increasing their solubility and bioavailability. HPβCD is also used to enhance the permeability of drugs across biological membranes, allowing for better drug delivery. In the food industry, HPβCD is used as a food additive to improve the stability, solubility, and flavor of various food ingredients. It is also used as a fat replacer in low-fat foods. In cosmetics, HPβCD is used as a solubilizing agent for fragrances and essential oils. It is also used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in personal care products. From a chemical perspective, HPβCD is a cyclic molecule with a hydrophilic exterior and a hydrophobic interior. The hydroxypropyl group attached to the glucose units increases the solubility of the molecule in water. The hydrophobic interior can form inclusion complexes with hydrophobic molecules, enabling the solubilization of poorly water-soluble compounds. Overall, HPβCD is a versatile and widely used compound with numerous applications in various industries. Its solubilizing, stabilizing, and permeability-enhancing properties make it a valuable tool in drug development and delivery. Its ability to improve the stability, solubility, and flavor of food ingredients and personal care products makes it an important ingredient in the food and cosmetics industries.