Structure and Functional Properties of Seed Surface Mucilage of Karin (Chaenomelese sinensis)

Abstract

The seeds of Karin (Chaenomelese sinensis), usually not eaten and discarded, are surrounded with transparent mucilage, which appears readily extractable with water to give hydrocolloidal transparent solution. The structural feature of seed-surface mucilage of Karin was investigated by chemical and enzymic studies ; it contains an acidic polysaccharide, i.e., O-2-substituted d-glucurono- l-arabino-(1→4) β- d-xylan. This unique seed-surface mucilage may be constructed with the above acidic polysaccharide and d-xylo (1→4)- β- d-glucan. These two heteropolysaccharides must be associated by intermolecular hydrogen bonding to provide the interesting thixotropic characteristics with unique water-holding capabilities, appreciable as food additives and cosmetic utilization, such as skin-care lotion.