Efficient extraction of polysaccharides from Lycium barbarum L. by aqueous two-phase system combined with tissue-smashing extraction

An effective method based on tissue-smashing extraction assisted aqueous two-phase system (TSE-ATPS) was developed for extracting Lycium barbarum L. fruits polysaccharides (LBPs). The ethanol/salt aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) composed of three different salts was evaluated, from which the system of 17.86% (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 (w/w) and 28.86% ethanol (w/w) was chosen. The conditions were as follows: solid-to-solvent ratio 1:30 (m/v), tissue-smashing power 8000 rpm (8 krpm), extraction time 4 min and the extraction yield of LBPs was 24.79 mg/g. Compared with hot water extraction (HWE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), TSE-ATPS ((NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 /ethanol) improved the extraction yield of LBPs. LBPs extracted using various methods have different chemical structures and monosaccharide compositions. Superior antioxidant activity was demonstrated when the ATPS was composed of K 2 HPO 4 /ethanol and NaH 2 PO 4 /ethanol. Therefore, as an innovative, promising, and rapid crushing extraction technology, TSE-ATPS provides a better choice for extraction and separation of polysaccharides from natural products. • 17.86% (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 (w/w) and 28.86% ethanol (w/w) is a satisfactory ATPS system. • By comparing HWE and UAE, TSE-ATPS showed a higher extraction yield. • LBPs extracted by different methods have different physicochemical properties. • TSE assisted ATPS method provides a novel insight for extracting polysaccharides.