Understanding what Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP) is, how it interacts with galectin‑3 and cancer, what the research shows, and what patients should know about safety, interactions, and integrative oncology considerations.

What Is Modified Citrus Pectin?

Modified citrus pectin (MCP) is a form of pectin derived from the peel and pulp of citrus fruits. Unlike regular pectin—which is too large to be absorbed—MCP is processed into smaller, low‑molecular‑weight fragments that the body can absorb more easily.

MCP is rich in galactoside residues, which give it a unique ability to bind to certain proteins involved in cancer biology, especially galectin‑3.

How MCP May Influence Cancer Biology

Much of MCP’s anticancer interest comes from its ability to bind and block galectin‑3, a protein involved in:

• Tumor growth[i]
• cell adhesion
• metastasis[ii]
• angiogenesis
• immune evasion
• apoptosis resistance

Galectin‑3 is overexpressed in many cancers and is associated with more aggressive dis...