Antioxidant Activity of Helix aspersa maxima (Gastropod) Hemocyanin

Hemocyanins (Hcs) are oligomeric copper-containing proteins that function as oxygen carriers in the hemolymph of several mollusks and arthropods. In this study we present an investigation on the antioxidant activity of the Hc isolated from snails Helix aspersa maxima (HaH), using various experimental models. The free radical scavenging activity was determined against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and [2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] free radical cation (ABTS). Cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and Ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay also were carried out. The results obtained show that HaH exhibits good radical scavenging activity by 59.54% reduction of the DPPH and 62.31% inhibition of ABTS radicals. Furthermore, HaH demonstrated a strong chelating effect on copper ions measured through CUPRAC method. In conclusion, the present study revealed for the frst time the antioxidant properties of molluscan Hc. The antioxidative activity of HaH could probably involve quenching of reactive oxygen species and metal ion chelation, thereby reducing the potential of prooxidants to attack cellular components.