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Structural Analysis and Antioxidant Activity of Alkaline-Extracted Glucans from Hericium erinaceus

Summary

Scientists have isolated and studied a special sugar molecule (polysaccharide) from Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus). This molecule shows promising antioxidant properties, meaning it can help protect cells from damage. The research provides detailed understanding of the molecule’s structure and its potential benefits as a natural antioxidant. Impacts on everyday life: • Could lead to new natural antioxidant supplements • May help develop better food preservatives from natural sources • Contributes to understanding the health benefits of medicinal mushrooms • Could inspire new functional food products • Supports the growing interest in natural alternatives to synthetic antioxidants

Background

Hericium erinaceus is a wild edible mushroom known for its high nutritional value and bioactive components, particularly polysaccharides. While various extraction methods exist for these polysaccharides, including water, enzymatic, and ultrasonic approaches, each has limitations. Previous studies have identified different glucan structures from H. erinaceus, but detailed analysis of side chain structures remains limited.

Objective

To extract, purify and characterize the structure of an alkali-soluble β-glucan from Hericium erinaceus and evaluate its antioxidant activity. The study aimed to provide detailed structural analysis of the polysaccharide’s backbone and side chains while assessing its potential as a natural antioxidant.

Results

A homogeneous β-glucan (AHEP-A-b) with molecular weight of ~20 kDa was isolated. Structural analysis revealed a backbone composed of (1→6)-linked-D-β-glucopyran residues, branched at O-3 with [→3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→] oligosaccharides or single β-Glcp units. The degree of polymerization of side chains ranged from 2 to 8. The polysaccharide demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, particularly in ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging assays, with IC50 values of 3.03 and 3.90 mg/mL respectively.

Conclusion

The study successfully characterized a novel alkali-soluble β-glucan from H. erinaceus with a (1→6)-β-D-glucan backbone and defined side chain structures. The polysaccharide exhibited promising antioxidant properties, suggesting potential applications as a natural antioxidant compound.
  • Published in:Foods,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/foods13172742
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