Polysaccharides from Polygonatum sibiricum and their immunological activities

Objective To study the characteristics and immunological activities of the polysaccharides from Polygonatum sibiricum. Methods The polysaccharide fractions from water extract of P. sibiricum were isolated and purified using DEAE-cellulose and gel-filtration chromatography. Their structures were investigated using chemical and spectral methods. Their immunological activities were determined. Results Five polyscaaharides were obtained from the water extract of P. sibiricum. PSW1B-b was a neutral galactan. PSW2A-1 and PSW3A-1 were acidic polysaccharides. PSW4A and PSW5B were glycoproteins. PSW3A-1, PSW4A, and PSW5B showed significant immunostimulating activities. Conclusion Five polysacharides are obtained from P. sibiricum for the first time and are mainly composed of galactose among which three polysacharides have the immunological activities.