Formula (C6H10O5)x | ||
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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). It has been studied since about 1957. Chemically, lichenin consists of repeating glucose units linked by β-1,3 and β-1,4 glycosidic bonds.
It is an important carbohydrate for reindeers and northern flying squirrels, which eat the lichen wila.
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.
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.