Optimization of Polysaccharide Extraction Technology From Perilla frutescens Leaves and Its α-Glucosidase Inhibition Activity

Perilla frutescens (PF) processes medicinal and edible properties, making its flowers, stems, leaves, and fruits versatile and valuable. This study optimizes extraction and evaluates the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of Perilla frutescens leaf (PFL) polysaccharides. It compared PFL polysaccharides extraction efficiency using hot water, cellulase-assisted, and microwave-assisted extraction. The experimental results demonstrated that the enzymatic extraction method yielded the highest extraction yield, reaching 4.64%. We used response surface methodology to investigate the four main influencing factors to optimize the enzymatic extraction. The optimized conditions resulted in an improved extraction yield of 6.29%. For optimal enzymatic extraction, use a solid-liquid ratio of 1:35 g·mL⁻¹, a temperature of 50°C, a time of 120 min, and an enzyme content of 1500 U/g. This study also investigated the α-glucosidase inhibition by Perilla frutescens leaf polysaccharides (PFLPs). The results confirmed that PFLP exhibited an inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase, indicating their potential to be utilized as α-glucosidase inhibitor. The study found reversible noncompetitive inhibition, providing valuable clues for finding new potential hypoglycemic drugs from natural sources.