Abstract
Lycium barbarum and L. chinense are two closely related shrubs known as goji, which have been used in china for more than 2 000 years as a traditional medicine and food supplement. these fruits contain a number of bioactive substances, of which polysaccharides (lBP) in particular are of interest for their inhibitory effects on the aging process. lBPs have antioxidant, immunomodulatory and antiapoptotic effects and also protect Dna from damage. as demonstrated in several animal models, this set of pharmacological activities results in lBP slowing down the aging process. this review article aims to present available valid information on the bioactive substances of plants of the genus Lycium and to critically assess the available scientific evidence on their retarding effects on the biological aging process.