Pectic substance as a growth factor stabilizer

Abstract

Pectic substance from Aloe Vera and other sources is used as a stabilizer and a delivery vehicle for pectin/heparin-binding proteins, such as pectin/heparin binding growth factors. Aloe pectin, a naturally occurring LM (low methoxyl) pectin, binds to pectin/heparin-binding growth factors, i.e., bFGF, aFGF, and KGF of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family and TGF-β1 of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family. Commercial LM or HM (high methoxyl) citrus pectins tested did not exhibit any binding activity with bFGF. A weak binding to bFGF was observed with a de-esterified pectin (polygalacturonic acid) prepared from citrus. The binding protected the growth factor from protease digestion. The calcium gel beads prepared with Aloe pectin also bound to these pectin/heparin-binding growth factors. The growth factor could also be encapsulated in the pectin calcium gel and Aloe pectin sodium gel. Pectin/heparin-binding growth factor stabilized by pectin is used for wound healing. A pectin-containing matrix is used for the isolation of a pectin/heparin-binding protein.

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