[An experimental study of the effects of pectin substances on nonspecific defenses of the body].

Effects of water-soluble alimentary fibers on nonspecific defense system attracted the attention of scientists in recent decade. Effects of some pectins on the phagocytic activity of macrophagal population infected with Yersinia pseudotuberculosis is studied on Wistar rats. The number of peritoneal exudative cells (test system) and macrophagal activity increased (as shown by increased glycolysis and acid phosphatase activity), while the number of surviving bacteria decreased 1000 times. Comparison of several apple and sunflower pectins demonstrated the highest killing effect of highly esterified apple pectin. The results necessitate further studies aimed at discovery of the new clinical applications of water-soluble fibers.