Isolation and characterisation of bioactive polysaccharides from lupin

Poster presentation. Australia is world's largest producer and exporter of Lupin. However, most of the produce is used as animal feed and less than 4% is consumed globally as human food. Consequently, the commercial value of the grain is quite low and any value addition will be beneficial to the farmers. Most important aspect of lupin is its high protein, high fibre and low fat content. Therefore, Lupin has huge potential for its utilisation by humans. The other important way by which the value of lupin produce can be improved is by its utilisation for health benefits. Several species of lupin exist, but Lupinus angustifolius (commonly known as sweet lupin) is the most widely grown variety in Australia. Currently, our laboratory is undertaking a program of research on L. angustifolius and its bioactive constituents. Very limited literature is available on bioactive components of Lupinus angustifolius and their pharmaceutical / nutraceutical benefits. Studies indicate that lupin constituents exhibit various health benefits including cardiovascular wellbeing. It is well established that the polysaccharides derived from botanical sources display high antioxidant, immunomodulatory and anti-cancer properties. This study focuses on extraction, purification and bioactivities of the polysaccharides from L. angustifolius. Special emphasis is given to the antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities of these polysaccharides.