Projects
In-depth study of the structure-function relation of pectin as emulsifier KU Leuven
Pectin is considered a group of heteropolymers rich in galacturonic acid present in the cell wall of higher plants. It is one of the most complex polymers occurring in nature. This complexity results in a multifunctional character of pectin polymers both in planta as well as in situ in food systems and in extracted form. Extracted pectin has been studied for many years and has found industrial application, among others, for its gelling ...
Advanced insight in pectin-based oil-in-water emulsions with targeted physicochemical and nutritional functionality: Is the truth in the pectin mix? KU Leuven
In our human diet, we consume lipids mainly as emulsions (e.g. sauces, soups). Oil-in-water emulsions are composed of oil droplets dispersed in water whereby the interface is covered with a layer of emulsifier allowing stability of the droplets dispersed. Pectin is group of complex polysaccharides present in higher plants and is omnipresent in many waste streams of food production (e.g. citrus peel). Particular pectin structures can adsorb at ...
Pectin Structure Functions Based on Ionic Interactions in Plant Based Food Systems KU Leuven
Foods are multicomponent systems in which interactions between components are very likely to occur. Amongst all food systems, given their interesting nutritional profile, their low carbon footprint, etc. , the consumption of plant-based food systems is increasingly advised. Pectin is an important component in such systems and interacts with other food components such as metal ions. These interactions do not only impact the rheological ...
Understanding the specific role of pectin in the structure evolution of dispersed plant-based food systems during processing and digestion. KU Leuven
Processing and digestion of dispersed plant-based food systems (e.g. soups, sauces, purées, smoothies) induces various structural modifications with impact on the technological and/or nutritional functionality of these complex multi-scale and multi-phase dispersions. These systems are build up of different structural elements including particles (cell clusters, single cells, cell wall fragments, insoluble polymers and oil droplets), and a ...
Relation between molecular changes of pectin and macroscopic texture changes of tissue systems during high pressure sterilisation. KU Leuven
Insight into the specific role of pectin in the structural modification of plant-based levensmiddelendispersies during processing and digestion Ghent University
Linking cell wall dynamics to ABA homeostasis: polyamines and pectin fragments as cell wall invertase stimulators KU Leuven
Plants are continuously exposed to various biotic and abiotic stresses, and the phytohormone ABA fulfils a central role during these responses. Below and above certain ABA levels, normal plant growth and development is negatively affected. "Priming" with certain exogenous substances (e.g. sugars, polyamines) prepares plants to react more efficiently during subsequent stresses. The regulation of intracellular ABA concentrations (ABA ...
Two-domain proteins composed of a glycoside hydrolase and a ricinB lectin domain: a synergistic relationship? Ghent University
We recently identified a new type of two-domain plant proteins consisting of a carbohydrate
modifying glycoside hydrolase domain and a carbohydrate-binding ricinB domain. Our analyses
show that these proteins are present throughout the plant kingdom. We hypothesize that these
two-domain proteins exert a bifunctional role. Taken into account the ability of the ricinB domain to
recognize and bind specific sugar residues, ...
Identification and characterization of the endogenous receptors for two Arabidopsis F-box proteins containing a lectin domain Ghent University
The aim of this project is to identify, purify and characterize the endogenous receptors for some Arabidopsis F-box proteins with a Nictaba domain. This will lead to better insights into the carbohydrate-binding specificity, subcellular location of these proteins and their role development and stress physiology of plants