But there is an odd twist to the story. Little of the chitin that passes through the trout gut actually gets digested. Based on our findings, we think chitinase may be an ancient gastric enzyme that may be pathogenic, attacking fungi or bacteria, instead of being a digestive enzyme. She added that scientists in The Netherlands have found chitinase in human macrophages, immunity cells in the blood, probably as a defense against microbial invaders. The COMB researchers have purified the chitinase from the gastric tissues of the rainbow trout.
Chitin is also abundant in fungi, worms, spiders, insects and some algae.
It is the second most common natural product on Earth after cellulose. Md. USA, is one of five centers of the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute, a unique life sciences research and education arm of the University System of Maryland. One of UMBI's first two research centers founded in 1985, COMB has achieved international recognition as a center of excellence in the study, protection and enhancement of marine resources.