Pectin products from Malian medicinal plants, can they combat ailments related to the immune system?

The objective of this proposal is to identify immunological active pectin polysaccharides from Malian medicinal plants, traditionally used for wound healing and combating infections such as malaria and schistosomiasis. The use of conventional medicines is too expensive for the majority of people living in Mali, and it is therefore important to evaluate the immune protective effects of the medicinal plants. The pectic polysaccharides will be isolated from plants used in Malian traditional medicine against immune related ailments, and based on bioassay-guided fractionation and purification. Their chemical and physical properties will be determined by use of both electron impact and chemical ionization, and NMR analysis. Further, we will determine whether p ectic extracts have a direct effect on the immune system. We plan extensive studies on the effects on macrophages and lymphocytes. Pinpointing the particular immunological functions the pectic extracts induce will also be essential for subsequent immunolo gical studies in vivo. The final goal of the project is to provide efficient, non-toxic, and inexpensive alternative medicines to the population in Mali.