Novel functions and applications of trehalose

Trehalose is a disaccharide with important functional properties. Although these properties have been recognized for many years, trehalose was not produced on an industrial scale. Recently, a novel enzymatic system for the production of trehalose was developed, and the cost has been dramatically reduced enough to permit widespread application. In the present study, the stabilization mechanism of unsaturated fatty acids by trehalose was found. Furthermore, possible suppressive effects of trehalose on osteoporosis development emerged from our experiments. Trehalose is also expected to be used for various applications in the fields of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.