Structure of a polysaccharide from Gastrodia elata Bl., and oligosaccharides prepared thereof with anti-pancreatic cancer cell growth activities

- The structure of 1,4-linked glucan with branch from Gastrodia elata was elucidated.
- Glucan named WTMA could inhibit the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells.
- Hydrolysis-derived products from the glucan show more potent inhibition effect.
- All the saccharides with anti-cancer cell growth bioactivity are with low toxicity.
- O-6 attached branch of the glucan is required for anti-cancer cell growth bioactivity.