acetylated high amylose maize starch

Acetylated high amylose maize starch is a chemically modified resistant starch (Type 4) designed for site-specific delivery in the gastrointestinal tract. It is produced by the acetylation of high amylose corn starch (such as Hylon VII), which replaces hydroxyl groups with acetyl groups to increase its resistance to amylolytic enzymes in the small intestine. Because it bypasses upper gastrointestinal digestion, it reaches the colon where it is fermented by resident microbiota. This fermentation process releases short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), specifically acetate, which promote gut health by lowering luminal pH and supporting the intestinal barrier. In pharmaceutical applications, it is investigated as a film-coating material or matrix component, often in combination with proteins like zein, to facilitate the colon-specific release of therapeutic agents like paracetamol or anti-inflammatory drugs.

Other names

acetylated high-amylose maize starchstarch acetateacetylated amylose-rich maize starchacetylated Hylon VII