Extraction and scavenging activities on free radicals in- vitro of a polysaccharide from Semen coicis

The water-soluble polysaccharide (SCP) was isolated from Semen Coicis through hot water extraction followed by ethanol precipitation. The polysaccharide was deproteinized by using the Sevag reagent, and the polysaccharide was free of proteins as scan by UV Spectra in 260 nm and 280 nm. In order to evaluate its antioxidant activities, Free radicals scavenging activities on superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals, DPPH and ABTS in vitro were carried out. The results indicated that SCP has significant radicals scavenging abilities on superoxide radicals and hydroxyl radicals and strong reducing capacity. The scavenging effects were powerful, which closed to the positive control. Therefore, the polysaccharide SCP should be explored as novel potential antioxidants.