Influence of γ-irradiation on the features of polysaccharides from hawthorn seeds

The chemical groups and molecular weights of polysaccharides have marked effects on their biological activities. This study evaluated the effect of γ-irradiation on the structural properties, prebiotic potential, and antioxidant activity of hawthorn (Crataegus azarolus) seed polysaccharides. The hawthorn seeds polysaccharides (HSP) were irradiated by γ-ray at doses of 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 KGy. After the γ-irradiation treatment, their particle size and molecular weight were reduced depending on the irradiation dose increment. γ-Irradiation had no effects on the composition of monosaccharides; however, it impacted their quantities, leading to notable increases in the levels of glucose, galactose, and glucuronic acid. The FTIR and NMR spectra demonstrated that the number of hydroxyl groups increased after γ-irradiation. Furthermore, γ-irradiation increased the antioxidant activity and prebiotic potential of HSP. Based on the relationship between the antioxidant and prebiotic potential and physicochemical attributes of HSP, γ-irradiation can be used as an appropriate method to modify polysaccharides and increase their biological activities.