Analysis of the monosaccharide composition of purified polysaccharides in Ganoderma atrum by capillary gas chromatography

Structural analysis and biological activity of cell wall polysaccharides and enzyme-extracted polysaccharides from pomelo (Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr.)

Pomelo peel is a valuable source of pectin, but research on its cell wall polysaccharides is limited. This study compared the cell wall polysaccharides of pomelo peel, enzyme-extracted polysaccharides of pomelo peel, and enzyme-extracted polysaccharides of whole pomelo fruit. Cell wall polysaccharides, including water-soluble pectin (WSP), chelator-soluble pectin (CSP), sodium carbonate-soluble pectin (NSP), 1 mol/L KOH soluble hemicellulose (KSH-1), and 4 mol/L KOH soluble hemicellulose (KSH-2), were obtained by sequence-extraction method. Total polysaccharides from whole pomelo fruit (TP) and peel-polysaccharides from pomelo pericarps (PP) were obtained using enzyme-extraction method. The structural, thermal, rheological, antioxidant properties, and wound healing effect in vitro were described for each polysaccharide. WSP had a uniform molecular weight distribution and high uronic acid (UA) content, suitable for commercial pectin. NSP had the highest Rhamnose (Rha)/UA ratio and a rich side chain with highest viscosity and water retention. PP displayed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity and reducing capacity at 0.1 to 2.0 mg/mL concentration range, with an IC50 of 1.05 mg/mL for DPPH free radicals. NSP also demonstrated the highest hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and promoted Human dermal keratinocyte proliferation and migration at 10 μg/mL, suggesting potential applications in daily chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

Complete composition analysis of polysaccharides based on HPAEC-PAD coupled with quantitative analysis of multi-components by single marker

INTRODUCTION

Monosaccharide compositions analysis (MCA) is indispensable for structural characterisations and structure-activity relationships of plant polysaccharides.

OBJECTIVES

To develop a concise and direct MCA method, we established a quantitative analysis of the multi-monosaccharaides by single marker (QAMS) by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography with pulsed-amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD) method.

METHODOLOGY

A stable and reproducible HPAEC-PAD method for simultaneous determination of aldoses, ketoses and uronic acids (i.e., l-arabinose, d-xylose, d-ribose, l-rhamnose, d-fucose, d-mannose, d-glucose, d-galactose, d-fructose, d-glucuronic acid and d-galacturonic acid) was established by systematic optimisation of stationary phases, column temperatures and elution programmes. On this basis, the QAMS method was proposed through comprehensive investigations of relative correction factor (RCF) variations under different influencing factors, for example, sample concentrations, flow rates, and column temperatures.

RESULTS

Using rhamnose as an internal reference standard, the contents of the other monosaccharide components in polysaccharides from Panax quinquefolium L. and Achyranthes bidentata Bl. samples were simultaneously determined by QAMS, and there was no significant difference between the results from the QAMS and external standard method (t test, P > 0.520). In addition, a MCA fingerprinting of 30 batches of P. quinquefolium polysaccharide was established by HPAEC-PAD, and six common peaks were assigned and determined.

CONCLUSIONS

The established HPAEC-PAD-QAMS method was successfully applied to the MCA of polysaccharides from P. quinquefolium and A. bidentata after optimisation of hydrolysis conditions. HPAEC-PAD-QAMS was proposed and established for MCA of plant polysaccharides for the first time.

Description of Microbacterium dauci sp. nov., a plant growth hormone indoleacetic acid-producing and nitrogen-fixing bacterium isolated from carrot rhizosphere soil

A plant growth hormone indoleacetic acid-producing strain LX3-4T was isolated from a carrot rhizosphere soil sample collected in Shandong Province, China. It is Gram-stain-positive, non-motile, and has irregular short rod-shaped cells. LX3-4T shared high 16S rRNA gene sequence identity with Microbacterium oleivorans DSM 16091T (99.4%), M. testaceum NBRC 12675T (98.6%), M. marinum DSM 24947T (98.5%), M. resistens NBRC 103078T (98.4%), and M. paraoxydans NBRC 103076T (98.3%). Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated gene sequences of 16S rRNA gene, housekeeping genes gryB and rpoB also showed the distinction between strain LX3-4T and other Microbacterium species. Furthermore, analysis of the average nucleotide identities (ANI), the average amino acid identity (AAI), and the digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between strain LX3-4T and its relatives revealed that strain LX3-4T represents a distinct species. The genomic DNA G + C content of the strain is 69.5%. It can grow at 25-37 °C (optimum 37 °C), pH 5.0-10.0 (optimum pH 6.0-8.0), and the range of NaCl concentration is 0-7% (w/v) (optimum 1-5%). The colonies on agar plates are smooth, translucent, and pale yellow. The main cellular fatty acids of strain LX3-4T are anteiso-C15:0, anteiso-C17:0, and iso-C16:0. The predominant respiratory quinones are MK-12 and MK-11. Diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, an unidentified glycolipid, and an unidentified phosphoglycolipid are major polar lipids. The cell-wall sugar of strain LX3-4T is glucose. The cell-wall peptidoglycan contains glycine, alanine, lysine, and glutamic acid. In addition, this strain carries nitrogen fixation genes and can grow in nitrogen-free medium. Based on the polyphasic data, strain LX3-4T represents a novel species of the genus Microbacterium, for which the name Microbacterium dauci sp. nov. is proposed with strain LX3-4T (= CCTCC AB 2023103T = LMG 33159T) designated as the type strain.

Cold Alkali-Extractable Antioxidative Polysaccharide from Russula pseudocyanoxantha (Agaricomycetes), a Novel Mushroom, Stimulates Immune Responses in RAW264.7 Cells by Regulating the TLR/NF-κB Pathway

In our previous study, we have established Russula pseudocyanoxantha as a unique species, playing a crucial role in indigenous diets through ages. The research also brought attention to bioactive potential of polysaccharide fraction extracted from the unexplored food using hot water. However, residue of the conventional process still contains therapeutic biopolymers that could further be utilized for pharmacological purposes instead of being discarded. Therefore, the current study aims to valorize the solid remnants, contributing to a deeper understanding of the novel taxon. Subsequently, the leftover was treated with cold alkali, leading to the preparation of a high-yield fraction (RP-CAP). Chemical characterization through FT-IR, GC-MS, HPTLC, and spectroscopy demonstrated presence of several monomers in the carbohydrate backbone, predominantly composed of β-glucan. Furthermore, GPC chromatogram indicated presence of a homogeneous polymer with molecular weight of ~ 129.28 kDa. Subsequently, potent antioxidant activity was noted in terms of radical scavenging (O2·-, OH·, DPPH· and ABTS·+), chelating ability, reducing power and total antioxidant activity where EC50 values ranged from 472-3600 μg/mL. Strong immune-boosting effect was also evident, as the biopolymers stimulated murine macrophage cell proliferation, phagocytic activity, pseudopod formation, and NO as well as ROS synthesis particularly at the concentration of 100 μg/mL. In-depth analysis through RT-PCR revealed that the fraction stimulated synthesis of several inflammatory mediators, elucidating the mode of action through TLR/ NF-κB pathway. Therefore, the findings collectively suggest that RP-CAP possesses great potential to serve as a healthimproving component in functional food and pharmaceutical sectors.

Edible algae (Ecklonia cava) bioprocessed with mycelia of shiitake (Lentinula edodes) mushrooms in liquid culture and its isolated fractions protect mice against allergic asthma

BACKGROUND

Ecklonia cava is an edible marine brown alga harvested from the ocean that is widely consumed in Asian countries as a health-promoting medicinal food The objective of the present study is to evaluate the anti-asthma mechanism of a new functional food produced by bioprocessing edible algae Ecklonia cava and shiitake Lentinula edodes mushroom mycelia and isolated fractions.

METHODS

We used as series of methods, including high performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, cell assays, and an in vivo mouse assay to evaluate the asthma-inhibitory effect of Ecklonia cava bioprocessed (fermented) with Lentinula edodes shiitake mushroom mycelium and its isolated fractions in mast cells and in orally fed mice.

RESULTS

The treatments inhibited the degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells and immunoglobulin E (IgE) production, suggesting anti-asthma effects in vitro. The in vitro anti-asthma effects in cells were confirmed in mice following the induction of asthma by alumina and chicken egg ovalbumin (OVA). Oral administration of the bioprocessed Ecklonia cava and purified fractions suppressed the induction of asthma and was accompanied by the inhibition of inflammation- and immune-related substances, including eotaxin; thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP); OVA-specific IgE; leukotriene C4 (LTC4); prostaglandin D2 (PGD2); and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and other fluids and organs. Th2 cytokines were reduced and Th1 cytokines were restored in serum, suggesting the asthma-induced inhibitory effect is regulated by the balance of the Th1/Th2 immune response. Serum levels of IL-10, a regulatory T cell (Treg) cytokine, were increased, further favoring reduced inflammation. Histology of lung tissues revealed that the treatment also reversed the thickening of the airway wall and the contraction and infiltration of bronchial and blood vessels and perialveolar inflammatory cells. The bioprocessed Ecklonia cava/mushroom mycelia new functional food showed the highest inhibition as compared with commercial algae and the fractions isolated from the bioprocessed product.

CONCLUSIONS

The in vitro cell and in vivo mouse assays demonstrate the potential value of the new bioprocessed formulation as an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic combination of natural compounds against allergic asthma and might also ameliorate allergic manifestations of foods, drugs, and viral infections.

Recent Progress on Modified Gum Katira Polysaccharides and Their Various Potential Applications

Gum katira polysaccharide is biocompatible and non-toxic, and has antioxidant, anti-microbial, and immunomodulatory properties. It is a natural polysaccharide and exudate derived from the stem bark of Cochlospermum reliogosum Linn. Additionally, it has many traditional medicinal uses as a sedative and for the treatment of jaundice, gonorrhea, syphilis, and stomach ailments. This article provides an overview of gum katira, including its extraction, separation, purification, and physiochemical properties and details of its characterization and pharmacognostic features. This paper takes an in-depth look at the synthetic methods used to modify gum katira, such as carboxymethylation and grafting triggered by free radicals. Furthermore, this review provides an overview of its industrial and phytopharmacological applications for drug delivery and heavy metal and dye removal, its biological activities, its use in food, and the potential use of gum katira derivatives and their industrial applications. We believe researchers will find this paper useful for developing techniques to modify gum katira polysaccharides to meet future demands.

Study and determination of fructan-type polysaccharide content in Erigeron annuus L

Fructan-type polysaccharidescomes from natural sources and occur in a large variety of plants, where they play important biological roles as reserve carbohydrate. One of the most commonly distributed compound from this group – inulin has been part of human daily diet for hundreds of years, as it is found in many fruits and vegetables, among others, bananas, onions and wheat. The inulin-type fructans: inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are considered to be functional food elements, the consumption of which brings about health benefits. Indeed, inulin can be consumed to increase the dietary fiber content. Fructan compounds, inulin and fructooligosaccharides have a strong bifidogenic effect, and have a positive action on the gut microbiota. In this work, we preformed gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of Erigeron annuus L. herb. The GC-MS analysis of carbohydrate composition confirmed the presence of free (arabinose, glucose, fructose 1, fructose 2) and fermented (arabinose, glucose, fructose 1, fructose 2, sucrose) carbohydrates at the quantity of 69.83 and 91.70 mg/g d.w., respectively.

Identification of the Key Enzymes in WL Gum Biosynthesis and Critical Composition in Viscosity Control

As an important microbial exopolysaccharide, the sphingan WL gum could be widely used in petroleum, food, and many other fields. However, its lower production is still limiting its wider application. Therefore, to gain insights into the bottlenecks of WL gum production by identifying the key enzymes in the WL gum biosynthesis pathway, more than 20 genes were over-expressed in Sphingomonas sp. WG and their effects on WL gum production and structure were investigated. Compared to the control strain, the WL gum production of welB over-expression strain was increased by 19.0 and 21.0% at 36 and 84 h, respectively. The WL gum production of both atrB and atrD over-expression strains reached 47 g/L, which was approximately 34.5% higher than that of the control strain at 36 h. Therefore, WelB, AtrB, and AtrD may be the key enzymes in WL production. Interestingly, the broth viscosity of most over-expression strains decreased, especially the welJ over-expression strain whose viscosity decreased by 99.3% at 84 h. Polysaccharides' structural features were investigated to find the critical components in viscosity control. The uronic acid content and total sugar content was affected by only a few genes, therefore, uronic acid and total sugar content may be not the key composition. In comparison, the acetyl degrees were enhanced by over-expression of most genes, which meant that acetyl content may be the critical factor and negatively correlated with the apparent viscosity of WL gum. This work provides useful information on the understanding of the bottlenecks of WL gum biosynthesis and will be helpful for the construction of high WL gum-yielding strains and rheological property controlling in different industries.

The application of mass spectrometry imaging in traditional Chinese medicine: a review

Mass spectrometry imaging is a frontier technique which connects classical mass spectrometry with ion imaging. Various types of chemicals could be visualized in their native tissues using mass spectrometry imaging. Up to now, the most commonly applied mass spectrometry imaging techniques are matrix assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry imaging, desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging and secondary ion mass spectrometry imaging. This review gives an introduction to the principles, development and applications of commonly applied mass spectrometry imaging techniques, and then illustrates the application of mass spectrometry imaging in the investigation of traditional Chinese medicine. Recently, mass spectrometry imaging has been adopted to explore the spatial distribution of endogenous metabolites in traditional Chinese medicine. Data collected from mass spectrometry imaging can be further utilized to search for marker components of traditional Chinese medicine, discover new compounds from traditional herbs, and differentiate between medicinal plants that are similar in botanical features. Moreover, mass spectrometry imaging also plays a role in revealing the pharmacological and toxicological mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine.

Comprehensive analysis of natural polysaccharides from TCMs: a generic approach based on UPLC-MS/MS

Here, we report a new application using liquid chromatography-electrospray mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS) using aldononitrile acetate derivatives for simultaneous baseline separation and detection of eight neutral saccharides, two uronic acids, one ketose, and eight alditols within 14 min. The separation was performed on a Cortecs C₁₈ column using acetonitrile (A) and water (B) as the mobile phase with gradient elution. The target components were detected in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode by mass spectrometry with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source operating in positive ionization mode. A comparison with traditional methods was used to determine the validity of the results. The UHPLC-ESI-MS method was used for quantitative analysis of free carbohydrates in water extracts of Crataegus pinnatifida as well as determination of Polygonatum cyrtonema and Glossy ganoderma monosaccharides in polysaccharides. The results demonstrate that this protocol is a comprehensive and effective technique for qualitative and quantitative analysis of plant polysaccharides from TCMs.

Determination of carbohydrates in the herbal antidiabetic mixtures by GC-MC

Due to the wide range of biologically active substances, the herbal mixtures can influence the development of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Carbohydrates attract particular attention due to their hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anticholesterolemic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory and detoxifying activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the content of carbohydrates through their monomeric composition in the herbal mixture samples: a) Urtica dioica leaf, Cichorium intybus roots, Rosa majalis fruits, Elymys repens rhizome, Taraxacum officinale roots, b) Arctium lappa roots, Elymys repens rhizome, Zea mays columns with stigmas, Helichrysum arenarium flowers, Rosa majalis fruits, c) Inula helenium rhizome with roots, Helichrysi arenarium flowers, Zea mays columns with stigmas, Origanum vulgare herb, Rosa majalis fruits, Taraxacum officinale roots, d) Cichorium intybus roots, Elymys repens rhizome, Helichrysum arenarium flowers, Rosa majalis fruits, Zea mays columns with stigmas and e) Urtica dioica leaf, Taraxacum officinale roots, Vaccinium myrtillus leaf, Rosa majalis fruits, Mentha piperita herb, which were used in Ukrainian folk medicine for the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2.The carbohydrates were separated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry after conversion into volatile aldononitrile acetate derivatives. The monomeric composition of polysaccharides was studied after their hydrolysis to form monosaccharides and poly-alcohols.Quantitative analyses of free carbohydrates showed that the predominant sugars were fructose, glucose and disaccharide - sucrose, in all samples. Concerning the determination of polysaccharide monomers after hydrolysis, glucose was the most abundant in all samples. The chromatographic study revealed a number of polyalcohols that are important for the treatment and prevention of progression of diabetes mellitus and its complications, namely, mannitol, pinitol and myo-inositol.

Analysis of inulin and fructans in Taraxacum officinale L. roots as the main inulin-containing component of antidiabetic herbal mixture

Herbs and their combinations due to the wide range of biologically active substances can influence on various links of the pathogenetic mechanism of development of diabetes mellitus and its complications. One of such combinations is an antidiabetic herbal mixture with established hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, pancreatoprotective activity in previous pharmacological study in vivo that including an inulin-containing component – Taraxacum officinale L. roots. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the quantitative content of inulin and fructans in Taraxacum officinale L. Quantity content of inulin was determined by the difference between fructose as a product of enzymatic hydrolysis and D-fructose, a constituent of sucrose and free D-fructose, taking into account the empirical factor for the conversion of D-fructose from inulin. Carbohydrates used in the calculation of inulin were separated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry after conversion into volatile derivatives as aldononitrile acetate. According to the results, Taraxacum officinale L. roots contain 436.29 mg/g of inulin. Total content of fructans was determined by spectrophotometric analysis as a product of acid hydrolysis of 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural. The results show that Taraxacum officinale L. roots contain 39.49% of fructans. The obtained results are evidence that this plant component should be included in the herbal antidiabetic mixture, because due to the presence of fructans and inulin causes hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and detoxification activity.

Study on extraction methods of polysaccharides from a processed product of Aconitum carmichaeli Debx

Traditional Chinese medicine PaoTianXiong (PTX) is a processed product of Aconitum carmichaeli Debx. with polysaccharide as the main ingredient. The properties of PTX polysaccharide (PTXP) may be affected by different extraction methods. To develop and utilize PTXP better, it is of great significance to study the extraction methods of PTXP. Thus, we extracted PTXPs with dilute alkaline water extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, cellulase-assisted extraction, and hot water extraction (HWE), respectively. The characterizations of PTXPs extracted by different methods were analyzed based on purity determination, infrared analysis, molecular weight and monosaccharide composition. And antioxidant experiments of PTXPs were conducted. The results showed that PTXPs extracted by the four extraction methods were all glucan. After purification, the PTXPs showed similar antioxidant activity in vitro. The molecular weight of polysaccharides extracted by the cellulase-assisted method was different from that extracted by the other three methods. Our results showed that not only the yield but also the effect of extraction methods on the properties of PTXP should be considered when selecting the best extraction method. Therefore, HWE was considered to be the best extraction method of PTXP. The yield and purity of purified PTXP were 24.5% and 97.1%, respectively. The optimized extraction conditions were: an extraction temperature of 90 °C, extraction time of 2.17 h, solid-liquid ratio of 1 : 29 (g mL-1), and number of extractions of 2.

A New, Quick, and Simple Protocol to Evaluate Microalgae Polysaccharide Composition

In this work, a new methodological approach, relying on the high specificity of enzymes in a complex mixture, was developed to estimate the composition of bioactive polysaccharides produced by microalgae, directly in algal cultures. The objective was to set up a protocol to target oligomers commonly known to be associated with exopolysaccharides' (EPS) nutraceutical and pharmaceutical activities (i.e., rhamnose, fucose, acidic sugars, etc.) without the constraints classically associated with chromatographic methods, while maintaining a resolution sufficiently high to enable their monitoring in the culture system. Determination of the monosaccharide content required the application of acid hydrolysis (2 M trifluoroacetic acid) followed by NaOH (2 M) neutralization. Quantification was then carried out directly on the fresh hydrolysate using enzyme kits corresponding to the main monosaccharides in a pre-determined composition of the polysaccharides under analysis. Initial results showed that the enzymes were not sensitive to the presence of TFA and NaOH, so the methodology could be carried out on fresh hydrolysate. The limits of quantification of the method were estimated as being in the order of the log of nanograms of monosaccharides per well, thus positioning it among the chromatographic methods in terms of analytical performance. A comparative analysis of the results obtained by the enzymatic method with a reference method (high-performance anion-exchange chromatography) confirmed good recovery rates, thus validating the closeness of the protocol. Finally, analyses of raw culture media were carried out and compared to the results obtained in miliQ water; no differences were observed. The new approach is a quick, functional analysis method allowing routine monitoring of the quality of bioactive polysaccharides in algal cultures grown in photobioreactors.

The Function of β-1,4-Glucuronosyltransferase WelK in the Sphingan WL Gum Biosynthesis Process in Marine Sphingomonas sp. WG

The marine-derived polysaccharide WL gum produced by Sphingomonas sp. WG showed commercial utility potential in ink, food, and oil industries. A β-1,4-glucuronosyltransferase WelK was predicted to catalyze the transfer of glucuronic acid from UDP-glucuronic acid to glucosyl-α-pyrophosphorylpolyprenol intermediate in the WL gum biosynthesis process. Its function was evaluated by bioinformatical analysis, gene knocking out, and overexpressing strategies. Compared to the wild strain, the WL gum production and broth viscosity of the mutant ∆welK were decreased by 71.5% and 99.2% when cultured for 48 h. The gene disruption led to the failure of product preparation. Homologous expression of welK in the native organism can effectively improve WL gum production. When glucose concentration was 6.7%, the WL gum production by the welK-overexpressing strain cultured for 60 h and 84 h reached 32.65 and 43.13 g/L, 134.1%, and 114% of the wild strain. The polysaccharide composition and qRT-PCR analysis showed that the glucuronic acid content was closely related to the expression level of welK. Thus, WelK was proved to play a critical role in the WL gum synthesis and will be an attractive target for metabolic engineering. Our experiment provided a genetic manipulation method for the functional characterization of genes in Sphingomonas sp. WG.

Determination of inulin in the herbal mixtures by GC-MS method

The herbal mixtures due to the wide range of biologically active substances can influence on various links of the pathogenetic mechanism of development of diabetes mellitus and its complications. The carbohydrates, especially inulin, deserve the particular attention through their hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anticholesterolemic and detoxifying activities. The aim of the study was to investigate the content of inulin in the herbal mixtures No. 3, No. 4, No. 7, No. 13 and No. 19, which are used in folk medicine for the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2 in Ukraine. The quantity content of inulin was defined by the difference between fructose as a product of enzymatic hydrolysis and fructose, a constituent of sucrose and free fructose, taking into account the empirical factor for the conversion of fructose from inulin. The carbohydrates were separated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry after conversion into volatile derivatives as aldononitrile acetate. According to the results, the herbal mixture No. 3 contains 458.97 mg/g of inulin, the herbal mixture No. 4 – 99.21 mg/g, the herbal mixture No. 7 – 139.93 mg/g, the herbal mixture No. 13 – 203.84 mg/g, the herbal mixture No. 19 – 359.65 mg/g. The availability of inulin and its high content in the investigated herbal mixtures due to the presence of inulin-containing medicinal plants, such as Cichorium intubus roots (mixtures No. 3 and No. 13), Taraxacum officinale roots (mixtures No. 3, No. 7 and No. 19), Arctium lappa roots (mixture No. 4), Inula helenium rhizome with roots (mixture No. 7).

Validation of a sensitive high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometric method for measuring carbohydrates in aerosol samples

Carbohydrates (such as levoglucosan) are a class of important water-soluble organic compounds in atmosphere. In this study, a high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) was applied to characterize carbohydrates in aerosol particles. Since carbohydrate was a kind of compound with low response in mass spectrometry, the conventional HPLC-MS/MS method was not sensitive enough to determine it. When acetate acid was added into mobile phase as buffer, the transition of [M+CH₃COO]^-→[M-H]^- could be selected as the quantification ions. In the range from 1.0 μg L^-1 to 20 μg mL^-1, the coefficients of regression (r²) were more than 0.990, and relative standard deviations (RSD) for replicated injections were lower than 2%. The limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were lower than 2.5 ng L^-1 and 10 ng L^-1, respectively. The precision and accuracy were examined by spiked samples at three different concentration levels (10 μg L^-1, 100 μg L^-1, and 500 μg L^-1) in five replicates. Recovery ratios ranged from 85% to 115% with RSD lower than 16%. Matrix effects of different carbohydrates ranged from 62% to 120%. The most sensitive HPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated to analyze 40 aerosol samples successfully. The carbohydrates including three sugar alcohols (threitol, arabitol and sorbitol), one monosaccharide sugar (inositol), two disaccharides (sucrose, trehalose), one anhydrosugar (levoglucosan) and one 2-methyltetrols (2-Methylbutane-1,2,3,4-tretraol) were successfully quantified.

Suitability evaluation on material specifications and edible methods of Dendrobii Officinalis Caulis based on holistic polysaccharide marker

Background

Dendrobii Officinalis Caulis (DC) is a well-known tonic herbal medicine worldwide and has favorable immunomodulatory activity. Various material specifications of DC are available in herbal markets, and DC is ingested by different edible methods. However, whether these specifications and edible methods are suitable or not remains unknown.

Methods

In this study, we evaluated the suitability of four material specifications (fresh stem, dried stem, fengdou and powder) and three edible methods (making tea, soup and medicinal liquor) based on holistic polysaccharide marker (HPM), the major polysaccharide components in DC. First, the HPMs were extracted from the four specifications of DC by the three edible methods in different conditions. Second, qualitative and quantitative characterization of the extracted HPMs was performed using high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC). Third, immunomodulatory activities of the extracted HPMs were evaluated in vivo.

Results

The results showed that the HPMs were found to be quantitatively different from various specification of DC and edible methods. In vivo analysis indicated that the HPMs exerted positive effects on innate immune responses by increment in proliferation of splenocytes, secretion of IL-2 and cytotoxicity activity of NK cells. Moreover, the dosage amount of HPM should be defined as a certain range, but not the larger the better, for exerting strong immunological activities.

Conclusion

According to the both chemical and biological results, fengdou by boiling with water for 4 h is the most recommended specification and edible method for DC.

Structure, Antioxidant, and Hypoglycemic Activities of Arabinoxylans Extracted by Multiple Methods from Triticale

Different methods of isolating arabinoxylans (AXs) from triticale were performed to investigate the extraction methods’ effects on the physiological functions of the AXs. Structural, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic activities were determined. The molecular weights (MWs) of enzyme- or water-extracted AXs were lower than those of alkali-extracted AXs. Opposite trends were shown by the arabinose–xylose ratio. Enzyme-extracted AXs exhibited higher glucose adsorption capacity and hydroxyl radical-scavenging efficiency than alkali-extracted AXs. The α-amylase inhibition ability, DPPH radical-scavenging capacity, and metal-chelating activity of alkali-extracted AXs were higher than those of enzyme-extracted AXs. Water-extracted AXs had the highest glucose dialysis retardation index. In conclusion, extraction methods can influence the physiological function of AXs through their structural features. AXs with higher MWs and esterified ferulic acid (FA) levels had higher antioxidant ability, whereas AXs with higher solubility and free FA level exhibited higher hypoglycemic activity.

Quantitative Analysis of Polysaccharide Composition in Polyporus umbellatus by HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS

Polyporus umbellatus is a well-known and important medicinal fungus in Asia. Its polysaccharides possess interesting bioactivities such as antitumor, antioxidant, hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory effects. A qualitative and quantitative method has been established for the analysis of 12 monosaccharides comprising polysaccharides of Polyporus umbellatus based on high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization–ion trap–time of flight–mass spectrometry. The hydrolysis conditions of the polysaccharides were optimized by orthogonal design. The results of optimized hydrolysis were as follows: neutral sugars and uronic acids 4 mol/L trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), 6 h, 120 °C; and amino sugars 3 mol/L TFA, 3 h, 100 °C. The resulting monosaccharides derivatized with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone have been well separated and analyzed by the established method. Identification of the monosaccharides was carried out by analyzing the mass spectral behaviors and chromatography characteristics of 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone labeled monosaccharides. The results showed that polysaccharides in Polyporus umbellatus were composed of mannose, glucosamine, rhamnose, ribose, lyxose, erythrose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, xylose, and fucose. Quantitative recoveries of these monosaccharides in the samples were in the range of 96.10–103.70%. This method is simple, accurate, and sensitive for the identification and quantification of monosaccharides, and can be applied to the quality control of Polyporusumbellatus as a natural medicine.

A Mixture of Functional Complex Extracts from Lycium barbarum and Grape Seed Enhances Immunity Synergistically In Vitro and In Vivo

A mixture of multiple ingredients is often more effective than the individual ingredients. The functions of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) glycoconjugate and grape seed procyanidins (GSP) are widely known. Here, we investigated the synergistic immune-enhancing activity of LBP and GSP. Atomic force microscopy results suggested that the mixture of LBP and GSP exhibited circular structure unlike LBP alone, and the addition of polyphenols may change the spatial conformation of the sugar chain. The changes in the structure were related to the synergistic effect of the two functional agents on immune recovery. In vitro, the proliferation rate of splenocytes was higher in LBP + GSP group (64.16%), rather than the sum of LBP group (13.01%) and GSP group (43.61%) individually used. This synergistical proliferation of splenocytes may be correlated to the increasing intracellular free calcium levels. Furthermore, the mixture significantly enhanced the immunity in vivo, as evident from the recovery of peripheral white blood cell counts in LBP + GSP group (18.535 × 10⁹ /L) to normal group levels (18.115 × 10⁹ /L) and higher B cell proliferation than normal group (P < 0.05). These results highlight the immune-enhancing activity of the combination of LBP and GSP associated with the structural changes, which may facilitate the development of functional foods with fewer resources but enhanced activities. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The synergistic effects of LBP and GSP on immunomodulatory were better than the sum of the effects of the individual agents both in vitro and in vivo. Our results may provide a research-based support for the development of related functional products and an insight into the production of food resources with a fewer but more effective functional agents for better results.

Triterpenoids from Ganoderma lucidum and Their Potential Anti-inflammatory Effects

Ganoderma lucidum, as food, tea, dietary supplement, and medicine, is widely used in China and Eastern Asian countries. In order to discover its anti-inflammatory constituents and provide some references for the usage of G. lucidum and G. sinense, two official species in China, the fruiting bodies of G. lucidum were studied, leading to the isolation of six new triterpenoids (1-6) and 27 known analogues (7-33). Compound 4 exhibited the most potent inhibition on nitric oxide (NO) production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW264.7 macrophage cells. The production of IL-6 and IL-1β, as well as the expression of iNOS, COX-2, and NF-κB were dose-dependently reduced by 4. The phosphorylations of IκBα and IKKβ in LPS-induced macrophage cells were blocked by 4. Therefore, 4 could be used as a potential anti-inflammatory candidate and the total triterpenoids might be developed as value-added functional food for the prevention of inflammation. In combination of previous studies, it should be cautious for the interchangeable usage of G. lucidum and G. sinense.

Lactobacillus species mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their antibacterial activity against opportunistic pathogens in vitro

Introduction: Application of lactic acid bacteria for synthesis of silver (AG) nanoparticles (NPs) could be a good ecological friendly alternative to chemical and physical methods. The objective of this study was to investigate the biosynthesis of silver NPs using Lactobacillus strains and to compare their monosaccharide composition of capsular exopolysaccharides and the antibacterial activity of synthesized nanoparticles. Methods: The washed cells of 22 Lactobacillus strains were used for in vitro silver nanoparticle biosynthesis from silver nitrate solution. The NPs formation was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. TEM micrographs were used for the evaluation of NPs size. The monosaccharide composition of capsular exopolysaccharides was determined using GC/MS analysis. The antimicrobial activity was determined by agar well diffusion assay. Results: The capsular layers of Lactobacillus strains contained heteropolysaccharides that were composed mostly of glucose, mannose, galactose and rhamnose in a different molar ratio. It was found that Ag NPs with large size (30.65 ± 5.81 nm) obtained from L. acidophilus 58p were more active against S. epidermidis, E. coli, K. pneumonia,S. flexneri and S. sonnei compared with Ag NPs from L. plantarum 92T (19.92 ± 3.4 nm). Conclusion: The size and antibacterial activities of Ag NPs were strain-dependent and such characteristics may be due to the capsular biopolymer composition of Lactobacillus strains used for Ag NPs synthesis.

The preparation and characterization of a novel sphingan WL from marine Sphingomonas sp. WG

Sphingans, a group of structurally closely related bacterial exopolysaccharides produced by members of the genus Sphingomonas, can be applied in a variety of industries such as food, cement, and personal care applications due to their high viscosity. A high sphingan-producing-bacterium, Sphingomonas sp. WG can secret large quantity of sphingan designated as WL. To enhance the production of WL, a three-stage control strategy was applied and the highest WL production can reach 33.3 g/L. The rheological analysis showed that the aqueous solution of WL had high viscosity, typical shearing-thinning behavior and great stability to high temperature, a wide range of pH (1 to 14), and high salinity. WL was composed principally of carbohydrate with 6.52% O-acyl groups. The carbohydrate portion of WL contained about 13% glucuronic acid and some neutral sugars including mannose, glucose and rhamnose in the molar ratio of 1:2.28:2.12. Partial acid hydrolysis of WL produced a new oligosaccharide WL-1. Structural resolution revealed that WL-1 consisted of α-L-Rha-(1→4)-β-L-Rha-(1→4)-β-D-Glc-(1→3)-α-D-Glc with β-D-Man substituent at the third glucose residue and carboxyl and O-acyl groups. These findings will broaden the applications of this novel sphingan in food, ink, oil and other industries.

Restoration of the tumor-suppressor function to mutant p53 by Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides in colorectal cancer cells

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs), isolated from spores, mycelia and fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum, have been suggested to possess anticancer activities in a large number of basic studies. A recent survey revealed that GLP-induced inhibition of cancer cell growth was dependent on the existence of functional p53. However, the actual role of p53-mediated tumor-suppressing pathways in facilitating the anticancer effect of GLPs is still unclear. In the present study, we investigated the interaction between GLPs and mutant p53 that exists in more than half of the known types of cancers. Our results showed that GLPs reactivated mutant p53 in colorectal cancer HT29 (p53R273H) and SW480 (p53R273H&P309S) cells while applied alone or together with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). This reactivation further induced cell growth inhibition and apoptosis. In addition, western blot assay and in vitro cell-free apoptosis assay suggested that the activation of mutant p53 was effective in both a transcriptional-dependent and -independent pathway. Altogether, our data demonstrated for the first time that GLPs show prominent anticancer activities by reactivating several types of mutant p53. Therefore, targeting mutant p53 by GLPs alongside other chemotherapeutics may be considered as a novel treatment strategy for cancer.

Monosaccharide composition of Herniaria glabra L. and Herniaria polygama J.Gay

The plants from Herniaria genus (Caryophyllaceae family) are mainly applied as diuretic agents for the treatment of kidney and gall-stones, gouts, urinary tract infections, hypertension and diabetes. The most widely spread species in Europe is Herniaria glabra L. (HG). Herniaria polygama J.Gay (HP) is found growing from Eastern Europe to Asia. Surprisingly, no work has been reported on the analysis of primary metabolites of HP yet and there is only a limited data on HG. The aim of our study was to establish the monosaccharide composition after a complete hydrolysis and in a free state in the entire herbs of HG and HP harvested in the western and central parts of Ukraine. The carbohydrates were separated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry after conversion into volatile derivatives as aldononitrile acetate. As a result, the monosaccharide composition after a total hydrolysis was established with the contribution of the following components: D-rhamnose, D-arabinose, D-fucose, D-xylose, D-manose, D-glucose, D-galactose, D-pinitol, myo-inisitol, D-mannitol, D-dulcitol. In a free state it was detected: D-fructose, D-glucose, D-galactose, D-pinitol, myo-inisitol, D-mannitol and D-saccharose. The following monosaccharides were found in the most abundant quantities in HG and HP respectively: glucose was determined as the major component – 33.40 and 22.80 mg/g, the second dominant sugar was pinitol – 16.80 and 18.07 mg/g, followed by galactose – 13.88 mg/g in HG and arabinose – 8.13 mg/g in HP. Sugars were determined in these plant species for the first time and this finding shed new light on their pharmacological application.

The structure of mushroom polysaccharides and their beneficial role in health

Mushroom is a kind of fungus that has been popular for its special flavour and renowned biological values. The polysaccharide contained in mushroom is regarded as one of the primary bioactive constituents and is beneficial for health. The structural features and bioactivities of mushroom polysaccharides have been studied extensively. It is believed that the diverse biological bioactivities of polysaccharides are closely related to their structure or conformation properties. In this review, the structural characteristics, conformational features and bioactivities of several mushroom polysaccharides are summarized, and their beneficial mechanisms and the relationships between their structure and bioactivities are also discussed.

A sensitive and efficient method for determination of N-acetylhexosamines and N-acetylneuraminic acid in breast milk and milk-based products by high-performance liquid chromatography via UV detection and mass spectrometry identification

A sensitive and efficient method of high performance liquid chromatography using 1-(2-naphthyl)-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (NMP) as pre-column derivatization reagent coupled with UV detection (HPLC-UV) and online mass spectrometry identification was established for determination of the most common N-Acetylhexosamines (N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GlcNAc) and N-acetyl-d-galactosamine (GalNAc)) and N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac). In order to obtain the highest liberation level of the three monosaccharides without destruction of Neu5Ac or conversion of GlcNAc/GalNAc to GlcN/GalN in the hydrolysis procedure, the pivotal parameters affecting the liberation of N-acetylhexosamines/Neu5Ac from sample were investigated with response surface methodology (RSM). Under the optimized condition, maximum yield was obtained. The effects of key parameters on derivatization, separation and detection were also investigated. At optimized conditions, three monosaccharides were labeled fast and entirely, and all derivatives exhibited a good baseline resolution and high detection sensitivity. The developed method was linear over the calibration range 0.25-12μM, with R(2)>0.9991. The detection limits of the method were between 0.48 and 2.01pmol. Intra- and inter-day precisions for the three monosaccharides (GlcNAc, GalNAc and Neu5Ac) were found to be in the range of 3.07-4.02% and 3.69-4.67%, respectively. Individual monosaccharide recovery from spiked milk was in the range of 81%-97%. The sensitivity of the method, the facility of the derivatization procedure and the reliability of the hydrolysis conditions suggest the proposed method has a high potential for utilization in routine trace N-acetylhexosamines and Neu5Ac analysis in biological samples.

Determination of carbohydrates in tobacco by pressurized liquid extraction combined with a novel ultrasound-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction method

A novel derivatization-ultrasonic assisted-dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (UA-DLLME) method for the simultaneous determination of 11 main carbohydrates in tobacco has been developed. The combined method involves pressurized liquid extraction (PLE), derivatization, and UA-DLLME, followed by the analysis of the main carbohydrates with a gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID). First, the PLE conditions were optimized using a univariate approach. Then, the derivatization methods were properly compared and optimized. The aldononitrile acetate method combined with the O-methoxyoxime-trimethylsilyl method was used for derivatization. Finally, the critical variables affecting the UA-DLLME extraction efficiency were searched using fractional factorial design (FFD) and further optimized using Doehlert design (DD) of the response surface methodology. The optimum conditions were found to be 44 μL for CHCl3, 2.3 mL for H2O, 11% w/v for NaCl, 5 min for the extraction time and 5 min for the centrifugation time. Under the optimized experimental conditions, the detection limit of the method (LODs) and linear correlation coefficient were found to be in the range of 0.06-0.90 μg mL(-1) and 0.9987-0.9999. The proposed method was successfully employed to analyze three flue-cured tobacco cultivars, among which the main carbohydrate concentrations were found to be very different.

A polysaccharide from Ganoderma atrum inhibits tumor growth by induction of apoptosis and activation of immune response in CT26-bearing mice

Ganoderma atrum is one species of edible and pharmaceutical mushroom with various biological activities. Recently, a novel polysaccharide, PSG-1, was purified from G. atrum. The antitumor activity and its mechanism of action were studied. In vitro, PSG-1 has little effect on inhibiting proliferation of CT26 tumor cells. However, the tumor size was significantly decreased in PSG-1-treated mice. The results showed that PSG-1 induced apoptosis in CT26 cells. Moreover, the intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) level and protein kinase A (PKA) activity were markedly increased in PSG-1-treated mice. In contrast, the contents of cyclic GMP and DAG and the PKC activity were decreased. Similarly, the expression of PKA protein was upregulated, while PKC protein expression in PSG-1-treated group was lowered. Additionally, PSG-1 increased the immune organ index and serum biochemistry parameter. In general, PSG-1 enhances the antitumor immune response, induces apoptosis in CT26-bearing mice, and could be a safe and effective adjuvant for tumor therapy or functional food.

A novel and rapid HPGPC-based strategy for quality control of saccharide-dominant herbal materials: Dendrobium officinale, a case study

Qualitative and quantitative characterization of natural saccharides, especially polysaccharides, in herb materials remains a challenge due to their complicated structures and high macromolecular masses. Currently available methods involve time-consuming and complicated operations, and present poor specificity. Here, a novel and rapid high-performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC)-based approach is described for quality assessment of saccharide-dominant herbal materials by simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of saccharide components. Dendrobium officinale, one of the rarest tonic herbs worldwide, was employed as the model herb in this study. First, a HPGPC fingerprint based on the molecular weight distribution of its carbohydrate components was established for qualitative identification of D. officinale. Then, HPGPC-guided dominant holistic polysaccharide marker was separated using ultra-filtration followed by HPGPC determination for quantitative evaluation of D. officinale. The experimental results suggest that this method is more efficient, stable, and convenient compared with the currently available methods for authentication and quality evaluation of D. officinale, and we expect the method will have similar advantages when used for quality control of other saccharide-dominant herbal materials and products.

A novel polysaccharide from Ganoderma atrum exerts antitumor activity by activating mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway and boosting the immune system

Ganoderma is a precious health-care edible medicinal fungus in China. A novel Ganoderma atrum polysaccharide (PSG-1) is the main bioactive component. We investigated the antitumor effect and molecular mechanisms of PSG-1. It exhibited no significant effect on cell proliferation directly. In contrast, administration of PSG-1 markedly suppressed tumor growth in CT26 tumor-bearing mice. It was observed that PSG-1 caused apoptosis in CT26 cells. Apoptosis was associated with loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, enhancement of mitochondrial cytochrome c release and intracellular ROS production, elevation of p53 and Bax expression, downregulation of Bcl-2, and the activation of caspase-9 and -3. Moreover, PSG-1 enhanced immune organ index and promoted lymphocyte proliferation as well as cytokine levels in serum. Taken together, our data indicate that PSG-1 has potential antitumor activity in vivo by inducing apoptosis via mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway and enhances host immune system function. Therefore, PSG-1 could be a safe and effective antitumor, bioactive agent or functional food.

Analysis of the monosaccharide composition of water-soluble polysaccharides from Sargassum fusiforme by high performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry

Sargassum fusiforme (hijiki) is the well-known edible algae, whose polysaccharides have been proved to possess interesting bioactivities like antitumor, antioxidant, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. A facile and sensitive method based on high-performance liquid chromatography method of pre-column derivatization with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (PMP) coupled with electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI-MS) has been established for the analysis of the monosaccharide composition of polysaccharides in S. fusiforme. Monosaccharides have been converted into PMP-labelled derivatives with aqueous ammonia as a catalyst at 70 °C for 30 min. The optimisation of the pre-column derivatization process was studied. The LODs of the monosaccharides were in the range from 0.01 to 0.02 nmol. PMP-labelled mixture of monosaccharides has been well separated by a reverse-phase HPLC and detected by on-line ESI-MS method under optimised conditions. The mobile phase of elution system was chosen as acetonitrile (solvent A) and 20mM aqueous ammonium acetate (solvent B) (pH 3.0) with Zorbax XDB-C18 column at 30 °C for the separation of the monosaccharide derivatives. Identification of the monosaccharides composition was carried out by analysis with mass spectral behaviour and chromatography characteristics of 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (PMP) labelled monosaccharides. All PMP-labelled derivatives display high chemical stabilities, whose regular MS fragmentation is specific for reducing labelled sugars. The result showed that the S. fusiforme polysaccharide consisted of mannose, glucose, galactose, xylose, fucose and glucuronic acid or galacturonic acid, or both uronic acids.

Simultaneous determination of 16 nucleosides and nucleobases by hydrophilic interaction chromatography and its application to the quality evaluation of Ganoderma

In order to develop a simple, efficient, and sensitive method for comprehensive analysis of the nucleosides and nucleobases in natural products, a zwitterionic hydrophilic interaction chromatography (ZIC-HILIC) method for the simultaneous determination of 16 nucleosides and nucleobases has been studied. A mechanistic study confirmed that ZIC-HILIC separation showed a mixed-mode effect of both hydrophilic and electrostatic interactions. This method was validated to be precise, accurate, and sensitive with overall precision (intra- and interday) less than 1.8% (RSD), and LOD and LOQ was in the range of 0.005-0.029 μg/mL and 0.018-0.096 μg/mL, respectively. With this method, the nucleosides and nucleobases in Ganoderma of different species (G. atrum, G. lucidum, and G. sinense) and origins were quantified. The results showed that the contents varied with the species and origins. With the aid of hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), cultivated Ganoderma from different origins and species were successfully discriminated. It is for the first time that the content of nucleosides and nucleobases in G. atrum is reported and compared. Our data showed that HILIC had advantages as a useful and potential tool for the study of the bioactive components in Ganoderma as well as their quality control, and could therefore be used for the determination of the analytes in other natural products.

Comparison of sterols and fatty acids in two species of Ganoderma

Background

Two species of Ganoderma, G. sinense and G. lucidum, are used as Lingzhi in China. Howerver, the content of triterpenoids and polysaccharides, main actives compounds, are significant different, though the extracts of both G. lucidum and G. sinense have antitumoral proliferation effect. It is suspected that other compounds contribute to their antitumoral activity. Sterols and fatty acids have obvious bioactivity. Therefore, determination and comparison of sterols and fatty acids is helpful to elucidate the active components of Lingzhi.

Results

Ergosterol, a specific component of fungal cell membrane, was rich in G. lucidum and G. sinense. But its content in G. lucidum (median content 705.0 μg·g^-1, range 189.1-1453.3 μg·g^-1, n = 19) was much higher than that in G. sinense (median content 80.1 μg·g^-1, range 16.0-409.8 μg·g^-1, n = 13). Hierarchical clustering analysis based on the content of ergosterol showed that 32 tested samples of Ganoderma were grouped into two main clusters, G. lucidum and G. sinense. Hierarchical clustering analysis based on the contents of ten fatty acids showed that two species of Ganoderma had no significant difference though two groups were also obtained. The similarity of two species of Ganoderma in fatty acids may be related to their antitumoral proliferation effect.

Conclusions

The content of ergosterol is much higher in G. lucidum than in G. sinense. Palmitic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid are main fatty acids in Ganoderma and their content had no significant difference between G. lucidum and G. sinense, which may contribute to their antitumoral proliferation effect.

Enhancement of cyclophosphamide-induced antitumor effect by a novel polysaccharide from Ganoderma atrum in sarcoma 180-bearing mice

The aim of this study was to investigate the enhancement of Ganoderma atrum polysaccharide (PSG-1) on cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced antitumor effect in sarcoma 180 (S-180)-bearing mice. Results showed that both CTX and PSG-1 delayed tumor growth and resulted in tumor apoptosis. The combined regimen was superior to either modality alone. Moreover, the combined treatment-induced apoptosis was mediated via mitochondrial pathway, as evidenced by alterations of Bcl-2 family proteins, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψ(m)), cytochrome c release, and caspases activation. Our results also showed that thymus and spleen indexes, lymphocytes proliferation, and concentrations of cytokine in the CTX group were decreased, which were alleviated by PSG-1. Additionally, the combined treatment ameliorated oxidative stress as compared with CTX alone. Taken together, we conclude that PSG-1 improved the antitumor effect of CTX, possibly in part mediated by enhancing the induction of apoptosis via mitochondrial pathways, activating host immune function, and modifying the redox system in S-180-bearing mice.