Abstract:

In this study, the molecular weight distribution and monosaccharide composition of polysaccharides from the pileus, stipe and spore of Ganoderma atrum were analyzed by using high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC) and gas chromatography (GC), respectively. Significant differences were found among the polysaccharides from the three different parts of Ganoderma atrum, which were also tested for their antioxidant activity. The polysaccharide from Ganoderma atrum pileus possessed the best hydroxyl free radical scavenging activity and reducing capacity (FRAP). The polysaccharide from the stipe of Ganoderma atrum showed the best abilities to scavenge DPPH and hydroxyl free radicals and to inhibit heat-induced oxidation in a β-carotene/linoleic acid model system. However, the polysaccharide from the spore of Ganoderma atrum had worse antioxidant effect in vitro but remarkably better metal ion chelating capacity in comparison with the ones from the pileus and stipe of Ganoderma atrum. This study will provide useful references for making full use of Ganoderma atrum resources.

Key words: Ganoderma atrum, polysaccharide, molecular weight distribution, antioxidant activity, pileus, stipe, spore