Pectic polysaccharide from the green fruits of Momordica charantia (Karela): structural characterization and study of immunoenhancing and antioxidant properties

• Pectic polysaccharide (PS) was isolated and purified from the fruits of Momordica charantia (Karela).
• Its structure was established by chemical and 1D/2D NMR studies.
• This molecule exhibited immunoenhancing properties.
• It also showed antioxidant properties.

A water soluble pectic polysaccharide (PS) isolated from the aqueous extract of the green fruits of Momordica charantia contains d-galactose and d-methyl galacturonate in a molar ratio of nearly 1:4. It showed splenocyte, thymocyte as well as macrophage activations. Moreover, it exhibited potent antioxidant activities. On the basis of total acid hydrolysis, methylation analysis, periodate oxidation, and 1D and 2D NMR studies, the structure of the repeating unit of the pectic polysaccharide was established as:Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide

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