The scavenging effects of SE enriched spirulina platensis on oxygen free radicals

Objective and Methods:The scavenging effects of the extracts, phycocyanin and polysaccharose from Spirulina platensis (S.P) or from selenium enriched S.P (Se-S.P), and sodium _ selenite on superoxide anions( O2? )and hydroxyl radicals (·OH) were investigated respectively with chemoluminescence technique. Results:The extract, Se-phycocyanin and Se-polysaccharose from Se-S.P had higher scavenging effect on both kinds of active oxygen radicals than those from S.P and the scavenging _ rates of extract on O2 ? and ·OH were enhanced about 30%and 20% at a concentration of 400μg/ml.Those effects of Se-phycocyanin were characterized dose-dependently and the concentration of 50% scavenging rate on superoxide anions was above 500 μg/ml. With increase of the concentration of Se-phycocyanin, the scavenging rate on ·OH was elevated steadily and 50% scavenging rate was found at protein concentration above 125μg/ml. The scavenging effect of the Se-polysaccharides on oxygen free radicals was more _ noticeable and the concentration for 50% scavenging rate on ·OH and O2 ? were 60 μg/ml and 12 μg/ml _ respectively. However, there was no evidenced scavenging effect of sodium selenite on both ·OH and O2 ? . Conclusion : The active organic Se-containing molecules such as Se-containing proteins and Se polysaccharides, which were produced by selenium metabolism in microalgae, might contribute to the scavenging effects of Se enriched S.P. on oxygen free radicals.