Amylose, a linear α-1,4 glucan, is expected as one of functional biomaterials in various industries. However, manufacturing of pure amylose has not been achieved due to an extreme difficulty in the purification of amylose from starch. In recent years, we have successfully developed the novel method to completely synthesize amylose using enzymes. Amylose forms a helical structure, in which various organic and inorganic substances can be contained as a guest molecule, resulting in the drastic changes in the physicochemical properties of the guest matters. The unique functions of amylose have been used in a powder form or at a solution state, which frequently set limit to the applications. Herein, we have developed amylase/cellulose composite fiber, AMYCEL®, to overcome such limitation. In this paper, we report three functions of AMYCEL. The first function is to capture and remove unfavorable compounds. AMYCEL can eliminate the body odor substances such as pelargonic and free fatty acids on the human skin. The second function is the stabilization of unstable molecules. AMYCEL can stably include iodine easy to sublimate, leading to the strong anti-microbial and anti-viral activities. The final function is a slow release of trapped guest molecules. AMYCEL can stably hold menthol at 50%RH and 100°C. With elevated relative humidity and temperature, menthol included inside AMYCEL is gradually released. The releasing speed can be controlled by relative humidity and temperature. A variety of guest molecules can tailor the physicochemical functions of AMYCEL.
