Lichenin

Lichenin, also known as lichenan or moss starch, is a complex glucan occurring in certain species of lichens. It can be extracted from Cetraria islandica (Iceland moss).^[1] It has been studied since about 1957.^[2]

Lichenin

Names
Other names Lichenan; Moss starch
Identifiers
CAS Number	1402-10-4 Y
ChEBI	CHEBI:6452 N
ChemSpider	none
ECHA InfoCard	100.014.323
PubChem CID	439241 monomer
UNII	M7F3LRN53I Y
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)	DTXSID40930736
Properties
Chemical formula	(C6H10O5)x
Molar mass	Variable
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). N verify (what is YN ?) Infobox references

Structure

Chemically, lichenin is a mixed-linkage glucan, consisting of repeating glucose units linked by β-1,3 and β-1,4 glycosidic bonds.^[1]

Uses

It is an important carbohydrate for reindeers and northern flying squirrels, which eat the lichen Bryoria fremontii.

It can be extracted by digesting Iceland moss in a cold, weak solution of carbonate of soda for some time, and then boiling. By this process the lichenin is dissolved and on cooling separates as a colorless jelly. Iodine imparts no color to it.^[3]

Other uses of the name

In his 1960 novel Trouble with Lichen, John Wyndham gives the name Lichenin to a biochemical extract of lichen used to extend life expectancy beyond 300 years.