In vitro evaluation of α-glucosidase inhibitory, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities of selenium enriched Ophiocordyceps sinensis

Abstract

Ophiocordyceps sinensis (O. sinensis) - commonly known as Dong Chong Xia Cao, is a valuable medicinal fungus containing many bioactive compounds such as cordycepin, D-mannitol, polysaccharide, etc. While selenium is an essential trace element for humans, it is the main component of some enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase, thioredoxin reductase, and deiodinase which play an important role in scavenging free radicals, enhancing reproductive and muscle function, and preventing cancer. Several studies have shown that inorganic selenium added to O. sinensis culture can be converted into a beneficial organic form, which increases the value for the fungus. In this study, extracts from Se-enriched O. sinensis were evaluated some biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and α-glucosidase inhibition. Results showed that Bu extract (extracted by n-butanol), crude extract, and EtOAc extract (extracted by ethyl acetate) can resist to S. sonnei at a concentration of 1000 µg/ml. Besides, the anti-inflammatory activity was stronger in crude extract, PE extract, and EtOAc extracts with IC50 values were 195.58±7.89; 64.19±0.22; 469.27±16.57 (µg/ml),
respectively. However, all extracts had no ability to inhibit α-glucosidase. This study exhibited that extracts from Se-enriched O. sinensis have an admirable
anti-inflammatory activity, which is a prerequisite for in vivo model research.