Abstract:

The microwave degradation product, named as PC2, of lambda-carrageenan, was separated into three fractions by DEAE-cellulose DE-52 column chromatography. T-lymphocytes and macrophage obtained from healthy mice were cultured in the presence of the three polysaccharide fractions to evaluate their immunocompetence through cell proliferation, neutral red phagocytosis and nitric oxide(NO) release tests. The results indicated that the contents of sulfate and molecular weights of carrageenan fraction CF1, CF2 and CF3 increased in turn. All these fractions could significantly promote Con A caused spleen T-lymphocyte proliferation and also increase phagocytic activity of mouse peritoneal macrophage and NO release. In conclusion, he degraded lambda-carrageenan is able to enhance the immunity of healthy mice.

Key words: polysaccharide, lambda-carrageenan, degraded fractions, immunocompetence in vitro