Pectin Isolated From Prickly Pear (Opuntia sp.) Modifies Low Density Lipoprotein Metabolism in Cholesterol-Fed Guinea Pigs

Abstract

The effect of prickly pear soluble fiber on low density lipoprotein (LDL) metabolism was investigated by feeding male guinea pigs either a nonpurified diet containing 0.25% cholesterol (HC diet) or the HC diet + 1% prickly pear pectin (HC-P diet). Plasma cholesterol levels were significantly decreased by the HC-P diet, with a 33% decrease in LDL levels (p less than 0.02) and an increase in LDL density. Hepatic free and esterified cholesterol levels were reduced 40 and 85%, respectively (p less than 0.002), by the HC-P diet. Hepatic microsomal 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase levels were not different. 125I-LDL binding to hepatic membranes was increased 1.7-fold by the HC-P diet (p less than 0.001), with receptor affinity (Kd) being unaltered and receptor number (Bmax) being significantly increased (p less than 0.001). These data suggest that prickly pear pectin may act by a mechanism similar to that of bile acid-binding resins in lowering plasma cholesterol levels. The observed reduction in LDL and hepatic cholesterol levels and increase in LDL density and hepatic apolipoprotein B/E receptors are responses suggesting an increased demand on hepatic cholesterol from increased excretion of bile acids and interruption of the enterohepatic circulation.

Cactus stems (Opuntia spp.): A review on their chemistry, technology, and uses

“…In a series of studies with Guinea pigs, Fernµndez et al [173 -175] demonstrated that the reduction of blood lipids triggered by isolated pectin from Opuntia was due to the enhanced binding of bile acid. It was concluded that through reduced bile absorption in the colon the enterohepatic circle was disrupted [173,174]. In a followup study, the same authors presented evidence that the lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL)-catabolism was considered to be more important than the modulation and de novo synthesis in the liver [175].…”

Processing technologies: an alternative for cactus pear (Opuntia spp.) fruits and cladodes

“…The effect of the prickly pear over the metabolism of the low-density lipoproteins has been studied by FernaH ndez et al (1990), suggesting, through its results, that the extract of prickly pear would act in a similar way to that of other compounds used to decrease cholesterol levels.…”

Potent virucidal effect of pheophorbide a and pyropheophorbide a on enveloped viruses

“…In the present study, we examined the antiviral activity of the cactus Opuntia ficus indica, and attempted to extract, isolate and identify the active compound(s). This plant, which grows in harsh climatic conditions (heat and dryness), was described as exhibiting several medicinal virtues including anti-diabetic [2,3], anti-cholesterol [4,5], anti-inflammatory [6], antioxidant [7], and anti-tumor [8] properties. However, reports on the antiviral activity of this cactus are limited to one publication [9].…”