Two novel polysaccharides from the torus of Saussurea laniceps protect against AAPH-induced oxidative damage in human erythrocytes

Two major polysaccharides (SLT-3, SLT-4) were isolated from the torus of Saussurea laniceps. Their molecular weight, monosaccharide compositions and the ability to protect human erythrocytes from oxidative damage induced by AAPH were assessed. Results showed that the Mw of SLT-3 and SLT-4 were 10,113 Da and 12,392 Da. SLT-3 was composed of mannose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, xylose, and arabinose in a molar ratio of 0.25:0.53:0.19:15.35:0.51:1.10:0.63:1.73, whereas SLT-4 was composed of mannose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, and arabinose in a molar ratio of 0.92:5.61:0.93:19.50:2.42:5.27:3.01. Pretreatment with SLT-3 and SLT-4 reduced MDA content, inhibited the generation of intracellular ROS and maintained the balance of GSH and GSSG in AAPH-treated erythrocytes. Furthermore, the activities of intracellular antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD, GSH-Px and CAT, were attenuated in polysaccharide treated cells. The results provide an important basis for the development of S. laniceps as a natural antioxidant.