Зеин

Химические свойства

Zein is a prolamin obtained from corn (Zea mays Linne' (Fam. Gramineae)). It occurs as a granular, straw- to pale yellow-colored amorphous powder or fine flakes and has a characteristic odor and bland taste.

Использование

Zein is a corn protein produced from corn gluten meal. it lacks the amino acids, lysine and tryptophan, so it is not suitable as a sole source of dietary protein. it is insoluble in water and alcohols but is soluble in aqueous alcohols, glycols, and glycol ethers. it functions as a film and coating to provide a moisture barrier for nuts and grain products. it also functions as a coating for confections and a glaze for panned goods.

Методы производства

Zein is extracted from corn gluten meal with dilute propan-2-ol.

Общее описание

Zein is a prolamine and an alcohol soluble protein present in maize endosperm cells. Zein is a 20kDa structural protein and is encoded by the gene mapped on the short arm of maize chromosome 7. This protein lacks essential amino acids, such as lysine and tryptophan. Therefore, it has a poor nutritional value.

Фармацевтические приложения

Zein is used as a tablet binder in wet-granulation processes or as a tablet-coating agent mainly as a replacement for shellac. It is used primarily as an enteric-coating agent or in extended-release oral tablet formulations and other delivery systems. Zein is also used in food applications as a coating agent.

Профиль безопасности

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.

Безопасность

Zein is used in oral pharmaceutical formulations and food products, and is generally regarded as an essentially nontoxic and nonirritant material at the levels employed as an excipient. However, it may be harmful if ingested in large quantities.

хранилище

Zein should be stored in an airtight container, in a cool, dry place. It has not been reported to polymerize.

Несовместимости

Incompatible with oxidizing agents.

Регуляторный статус

GRAS listed. Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Database (oral tablets). Included in nonparenteral medicines licensed in the UK. Included in the Canadian List of Acceptable Non-medicinal Ingredients.