Project Number: 6408-41000-006-09
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Sep 30, 2008
End Date: Aug 30, 2011

Objective:
1) Optimize acetogenin extraction and identify acetogenin-rich fractions. 2) Isolate and identify acetogenins for use in determination of bioavailability and neuroprotective property of acetogenins using vitro systems.

Approach:
Pawpaw fruits will be extracted at Kentucky State University (KSU). Acetogenins in the extracts will be isolated and chemically characterized at USDA, ARS, Natural Products Utilization Research Unit (NPURU). Assays to determine neuroprotective activity of pawpaw extracts, fractions, and isolated compounds will be at KSU. At KSU, extraction method will be optimized in order to obtain a fraction enriched in acetogenins. Quantitative analysis of acetogenins will be done at NPURU. Acetogenin bioavailability studies will be conducted at KSU.