Background: In order to investigate the physiological role of lignin carbohydrate complex present in Lentinus edodes mycelia extract (LEM), this material was separated into seven fractions.
Materials and methods: Three high molecular weight fractions (Frs. I-III) were prepared from the water extract by successive ethanol fractionation, dialysis and lyophilization. Four higher molecular weight fractions were prepared from the NaOH extract of the residue, followed by acid precipitation (Fr. IV) and stepwise ethanol precipitation (Frs. V-VII).
Results: All fractions showed higher anti-HIV activity than the water extract. Fr. IV showed the highest anti-HIV activity and most potently inhibited the NO production by LPS-stimulated mouse macrophage-like cells (RAW264.7, J774.1). ESR spectroscopy demonstrated that all fractions scavenged superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical. These properties are similar to those displayed by lignin carbohydrate complex, but not by glucans. HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of lignin precursors, but not that of tannins, flavonoids and their related compounds.
Conclusion: These results suggest a significant role of lignin-like substances in the expression of several important biological properties displayed by LEM.