Structure characterization of low molecular weight sulfate Ulva polysaccharide and the effect of its derivative on iron deficiency anemia

Sulfate Ulva polysaccharide with low molecular weight was prepared by enzymatic method and name SUE. The structural characterization of SUE and the effect of its derivative SUE-iron (III) on iron deficiency anemia were studied. Results showed SUE with molecular weight of 178 kDa were consisted of 57.9% rhamnose, 12.1% glucose, 16.3% glucuronic acid, and 13.7% xylose. The backbone contained (1 → 3, 4)-linked rhamnose, (1 → 4)-linked xylose, (1 → 6)-linked glucose and sulfate substitution was at C-3 of rhamnose. Due to high contents of sulfate group (23.7 ± 1.1%) and uronic acid, SUE-iron (III) with 20.3% iron content was synthesized. In order to evaluate the effects of SUE-iron (III) supplementation, an IDA animal model was created. After iron supplement administration, the SUE‑iron (III) showed effective effect on returning hemoglobin, red blood cells, serum iron, and erythropoietin to the normal levels. The hematological index of rats showed no difference from that in positive group. Besides, SUE-iron (III) is beneficial to alleviate inflammatory damage caused by IDA. These suggest that SUE-iron (III) might be exploited as safe and effective new iron supplement.