Modified citrus pectin anti-metastatic properties: one bullet, multiple targets

Carbohydr Res. 2009 Sep 28;344(14):1788-91. doi: 10.1016/j.carres.2008.08.038. Epub 2008 Sep 26.

Abstract

In this minireview, we examine the ability of modified citrus pectin (MCP), a complex water soluble indigestible polysaccharide obtained from the peel and pulp of citrus fruits and modified by means of high pH and temperature treatment, to affect numerous rate-limiting steps in cancer metastasis. The anti-adhesive properties of MCP as well as its potential for increasing apoptotic responses of tumor cells to chemotherapy by inhibiting galectin-3 anti-apoptotic function are discussed in the light of a potential use of this carbohydrate-based substance in the treatment of multiple human malignancies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anoikis / drug effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic / therapeutic use*
  • Apoptosis / drug effects
  • Citrus / chemistry
  • Galectin 3 / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness / physiopathology
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / drug therapy*
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy
  • Pectins / chemistry
  • Pectins / therapeutic use*
  • Plant Extracts

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic
  • Galectin 3
  • Plant Extracts
  • Pectins