The aim of this study was to determine the effect of three hydrocolloids from different sources (arabic gum, pectin and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose) on wheat dough major components (gluten and starch) using hydrated model systems. Gluten characteristics were evaluated concerning hydration properties (swelling, water retention capacity, water binding capacity), gluten quality (gluten index, the amount of wet and dry gluten), protein sodium dodecyl sulphate extractability, and rheological properties (elastic and viscous moduli); whereas the effect of hydrocolloids on wheat starch was assessed by recording the viscometric profile. Results showed that hydrocolloids tested affected in different extent to starch and gluten properties, being their effect dependent on the hydrocolloid type and also its concentration, All the hydrocolloids, with the exception of arabic gum, decreased the viscoelastic moduli during heating and cooling, yielding a weakening effect on gluten. Pectin mainly acted on gluten properties, varying gluten hydration, and also the quantity and quality of gluten. In addition, arabic gum acted primarily on the viscometric properties of starch. Therefore, hydrocolloid effect was greatly dependent on the hydrocolloid type, which defines its interaction with other components of the system. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.