Application of Glucomannan

Glucomannan (GM) a water-soluble polysaccharide possesses mannose residues which are extracted from tubers, bulbs, softwoods and roots of many plants. is considered to be dietary fibre actually present in some plant species the form hemicelluloses component cell wall. Its structure consists linear chain mixed ?-1,4 linked D-mannose D-glucose monomers arranged blocks. The molecular weight native GM lies between 1×104– 2×106. Low could obtained by de-polymerization technique. average Konjac (KGM) 500,000 – 2,000,000 varies with species, growing area, storage time processing methods. glucomannan different sources vary its glucose ratio. tuber has molar ratio 1.6:1 or 1.4:1 (ratio differs konjac breeds), Orchid tubers Scotch pine have ratios 3.6:1 2.1:1 respectively. Diversity also depends on degree acetylation chain. Values 5to10% every 19th sugar residue (attached randomly at C-6 position KGM), responsible facilitate dispersion solubility inhibiting intra-molecular hydrogen bonds. This function attractive for multiple pharmaceutical applications. However increase slows gelation process. intrinsic viscosity KGM solution highest among polysaccharides that swelling behaviour hence gel formation finds application food industry. Gels good stability, films, hydrogel, beads, micro nanoparticles may potential usage therapeutic drug delivery systems without causing toxicity. It useful treatment chronic constipation, decreasing serum cholesterol, increasing insulin sensitivity. As supplement it play significant role loss. Carboxymethylated improves properties paper, such as burst index, dry tensile wet index. These diverse applications make most sought after biomolecule. Keywords: Biomolecule, Glucomannan, Diverse