Antioxidant Potential of Sulfated Polysaccharides from Padina boryana; Protective Effect against Oxidative Stress in In Vitro and In Vivo Zebrafish Model

Abstract

Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage the internal cell components. <i>Padina boryana</i>, a brown alga from the Maldives, was subjected to polysaccharide extraction. The Celluclast enzyme assisted extract (PBE) and ethanol precipitation (PBP) of <i>P. boryana</i> were assessed against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) induced cell damage and zebra fish models. PBP which contains the majority of sulfated polysaccharides based on fucoidan, showed outstanding extracellular ROS scavenging potential against H₂O₂. PBP significantly declined the intracellular ROS levels, and exhibited protection against apoptosis. The study revealed PBPs' ability to activate the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway, consequently initiating downstream elements such that catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Further, ROS levels, lipid peroxidation values in zebrafish studies were declined with the pre-treatment of PBP. Collectively, the results obtained in the study suggest the polysaccharides from <i>P. boryana</i> might be a potent source of water soluble natural antioxidants that could be sustainably utilized in the industrial applications.