Preparation, characterization and bioactivities of selenized polysaccharides from Lonicera caerulea L. fruits

Native polysaccharide was obtained from Lonicera caerulea L. fruits (PLP). Two selenized polysaccharides (PSLP-1 and PSLP-2) were synthesized by the microwave-assisted HNO3-Na2SeO3 method, where the selenium (Se) contents were 228 +/- 24 and 353 +/- 36 mu g/g, respectively. The molecular weights of PLP, PSLP-1, and PSLP-2 were 5.9 x 104, 5.6 x 104, and 5.1 x 104 kDa, respectively. PSLP-1 and PSLP-2 contained the same type of monosaccharides as PLP but with different molar ratios. The main chain structure of the native polysaccharide was not changed after selenization. PLP, PSLP-1, and PSLP-2 contained the same six types of glycosidic bonds. Bioactivity assays revealed that the two selenized polysaccharides possessed better antioxidant activities than PLP, but their bile acid-binding abilities and inhibitory activities on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) had weakened. In summary, PLP, PSLP-1, and PSLP-2 may be promising Se supplements in functional foods and inhibitors for the treatment of AChE.

Automated summary

Two selenized polysaccharides (PSLP-1 and PSLP-2) were synthesized from native polysaccharide obtained from Lonicera caerulea L. fruits. The selenium contents of PSLP-1 and PSLP-2 were found to be 228 +/- 24 and 353 +/- 36 mu g/g, respectively. Despite changes in molar ratios, the main chain structure and glycosidic bonds of the polysaccharides remained intact after selenization. The selenized polysaccharides showed improved antioxidant activities but weakened abilities in bile acid-binding and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE).