Extraction optimization, separation and antioxidant activity of Luffa cylindrica polysaccharides

Ultrasound extraction of Luffa cylindrica polysaccharides (LCP) was studied. According to the single factor experiment results, extraction process of LCP was optimized by response surface methodology. The results were fitted to a second-order polynomial equation using multiple regression analysis and the optimal conditions were determined (ultrasound extraction time: 90 min, ratio of water to material: 50 ml/g and ultrasound extraction temperature: 75.8 °C). Then, the ion exchange chromatography was used to separate crude LCP. Two major polysaccharide fractions were obtained for FT-IR analysis and antioxidant activity evaluation. The results indicated that all samples showed excellent antioxidant activity and exert no damage to the normal cells. Furthermore, theoretical basis for use of L. cylindrica resource was provided by this study.