Temporal and spatial regulation of glucomannan deposition and mobilization in corms of Amorphophallus konjac (Araceae).

Premise Of The Study: Konjac glucomannan (KGM), the main biologically active constituent of konjac flour extracted from corms of Amorphophallus konjac (konjac), has potential to be used as a nutraceutical (satiety agent) to combat obesity. Here we present the results of an immunocytochemical investigation of the developmental regulation of the deposition and mobilization of glucomannan in corm tissues of konjac, using an antiheteromannan (mannan/glucomannan) antiserum.

Methods: The intensity of antibody binding to glucomannan idioblasts at six developmental stages (i.

Traditional uses and potential health benefits of Amorphophallus konjac K. Koch ex N.E.Br.

Amorphophallus konjac (konjac) has long been used in China, Japan and South East Asia as a food source and as a traditional medicine. Flour extracted from the corm of this species is used in Far Eastern cuisine to make noodles, tofu and snacks. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a gel prepared from the flour has been used for detoxification, tumour-suppression, blood stasis alleviation and phlegm liquefaction; and for more than 2000 years has been consumed by the indigenous people of China for the treatment of asthma, cough, hernia, breast pain, burns as well as haematological and skin disorders.