Principles of Biochemistry (2+1)

3.3.3.6 Pectins

Pectin occurs widespread in nature. Pectin is combined with cellulose in the cell walls. The combined, insoluble pectin is referred to as proptopectin. It may be released by mild hydrolysis or other means and converted into soluble pectin.  When soluble pectin is boiled with dilute acid, it is slowly hydrolyzed to pectic acid and methyl alcohol. Purified pectin accordingly is the methyl ester (many methyl groups per molecule) of pectic acid. Pectic acid is a chain of at least 200 of (1-4) linked β-D galactopyranosyl uronic acid units. It is found especially in the pulp of citrus fruits, apples, beets and carrots

Uses:Pectin is used commercially in the preparation of jellies, jams, and marmalades. Its thickening properties also make it useful in the confectionery, pharmaceutical, and textile industries. Pectin also has several health benefits in humans.Included among these are its ability to reduce low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, thereby lowering cholesterol levels, and its ability to slow the passage of food through the intestine, relieving diarrhea. Pectin can also activate cell death pathways in cancer cells, indicating that pectin may play an important role in preventing certain types of cancer.