Abstract: The molecular weight and components distribution of Cordyceps sinensis polysaccharides were studied by ethanol precipitation(step and stepwise) and DEAE-32 cellulose column chromatography respectively. The experimental results of stepwise ethanol precipitation showed that the yeild represents the increasing trend with increase of the ethanol concentration, their polysaccharides contents have significant changes, and at the ethanol concentration of 30% and 70%, polysaccharides contents are up to maximum. Molecular weights of endopolysaccharides and exopolysaccharides are pockety. During step ethanol precipitation the contents of the different components of Cordyceps sinensis polysaccharides were assayed. The results showed that endopolysaccharides and exopolysaccharides have the similar molecular weight and content;and also their acidic polysaccharides have the similar regulation by DEAE-32 cellulose column chromatography.

Key words: Cordyceps sinensis polysaccharides, ethanol precipitation, DEAE-32 cellulose, column chromatography