Inhibitory effect of Schisandra chinensis leaf polysaccharide against L5178Y lymphoma

A water-soluble polysaccharide WSLSCP was extracted from leaves of Schisandra chinensis and purified by DEAE-cellulose and Sepharose CL-6B chromatography. In the present investigation, the physicochemical properties, antitumor and immunomodulating activities of WSLSCP were valuated. The results showed WSLSCP could significantly inhibit the growth of L5178Y lymphoma cells in vivo, and upgrade the secretion level of TNF-α in serum. Moreover, the survival rate of tumor-bearing mice treated with WSLSCP was significantly improved. WSLSCP could enhance phagocytic capability of macrophages in vitro, and remarkably promoted the secretion of NO and TNF-α of macrophages. These results suggested WSLSCP could significantly enhance functions of immune system, and the antitumor effects of WSLSCP were achieved by immunostimulating properties.