Pulsed Electric Field Extraction Enhanced Anti-coagulant Effect of Fungal Polysaccharide from Jew's Ear (Auricularia auricula)

Introduction As a Chinese herbal medicine, Jew's ear has been known for its anti-coagulant effects. Hence it is worthwhile developing an effective technique to extract active components. Objective To find the optimal extraction condition and to identify the best strain to yield fungal polysaccharide with anti-coagulant activity. Methodology Three strains of Jew's ear from Jilin Province, named as 988, DY 18 and FS 02, and three extraction techniques, namely, high intensity pulsed electric fields (HIPEF), microwave-assisted extraction method (MAEM) and ultrasonic-assisted extraction method (UAEM), were applied to optimise the extraction conditions. The crude extracts and polysaccharides were further determined for anti-coagulant activities. Results All extracts prolonged blood clotting time as compared to reagent control. The HIPEF exhibited the most remarkable effect among the three extraction techniques. The anti-coagulant activities of extracts were enhanced with increasing electric field strength when the field strength reached 24?kV/cm. Conclusion Current results suggest that the HIPEF technique will be an effective method in the manufacture of bioactive natural polysaccharide. Copyright (c) 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.