Functionality of Algal Oligosaccharides

Abstract

The algal oligosaccharides were prepared by physical treatment such as ultrasonicating, microwaving, and autoclaving with organic acid. Agars and carrageenans were used to prepare the algal oligosaccharides. Analysis for each classes of the depolymerized agars and carrageenans was conducted by thin layer chromatography. The hydrolysis ratios and physiological abilities were determined during hydrolyzing the agars and carrageenans. Among several physical depolymerization methods, autoclaving treatment was the most effective against hydrolyzing agars and carrageenans to low molecular weight oligosaccharides. The maximum depolymerization ratio of the hydrolysates produced by autoclaving was about 40%. Microwaving and ultrasonication treatment showed no hydrolysis improvement effect. The oligosaccharides prepared by autoclaving with organic acid catalyst from agars and carraeenans had very high antibrowning, antimicrobial, Bifidus-growth factor, anticoagulant and anticancer activity. © 2002, The Japanese Society of Fisheries Science. All rights reserved.