Optimization of extraction technology of the Anemone raddeana polysaccharides (ARP) by orthogonal test design and evaluation of its anti-tumor activity

In order to get high quality bioactive polysaccharides (ARP) from Anemone raddeana, an orthogonal experiment (L(9)(3)(4)) was applied to optimize the best extraction conditions. Extraction time, extraction temperature, number of extraction and water to raw material ratio were the main factors to influence the yield and purity of the extracted crude polysaccharides. The four factors chosen for the present investigation were based on the results of a single-factor test. The optimum extraction conditions were determined as follows: extraction time 1.5 h, temperature 80 C, number 4 and water to raw material at 6. Under optimized conditions, the experimental yield 7.97 +/- 0.27% agreed closely with the predicted yield. In vivo ARP at suitable dose is effective on Th1 cells, as associated with an enhancement of IgG2a and IgG2b levels. In vitro ARP significantly inhibited the proliferation of human hepatocellular carcinoma HEP-G2 and human intestinal cancer HCT-22 cells, indicating ARP could be a potential anti-cancer therapeutic agent. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.