A polysaccharide isolated and purified from Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco leaves, characterization, bioactivity and its regulation on macrophage polarization

Structural characterization of Corydalis yanhusuo polysaccharides and its bioactivity in vitro

This study isolated and purified two polysaccharides, CYHSP-1 and CYHSP-2, from Corydalis yanhusuo, and investigated their structures and in vitro biological activities. The findings revealed that CYHSP-1 and CYHSP-2 possess average molecular weights of 97.17 and 23.48 kDa, respectively, indicating uniform molecular weight glucans. Structural characterization, utilizing techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and methylation analysis, identified the presence of sugar units including α-1,4-Glc-(1→, α-1,4,6-Glc-(1→, α-1,6-Glc-(1→, and α-t-Glc-(1→. CYHSP-1 demonstrated superior radical scavenging activity and a more pronounced inhibitory effect on human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells compared to CYHSP-2. These results indicate the significant potential of these Corydalis yanhusuo-derived polysaccharides as natural antioxidants and anti-tumor agents.

Cirsii Herba glycoprotein promotes macrophage M1 polarization through MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways via interaction with TLR4

The present study aimed to extract and purify the glycoprotein from Cirsii Herba (CHPs), and investigate its immunomodulatory activity and molecular mechanism in RAW264.7 macrophages. The results showed that CHPs contained 14.8% carbohydrates and 80.4% proteins. CHPs were identified as glycoprotein around 70 kDa and contained 17 different amino acids, in which the Glu and Asp were predominant. The carbohydrate chain in CHPs was composed of mannose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, xylose and arabinose with the molecular ratio of 6.387: 24.358: 5.766: 8.877: 12.098: 20.427: 7.090: 14.997. CHPs significantly boosted pinocytic and phagocytic activities, increased the secretions of inflammatory factors (NO, TNF-α and IL-6) and chemokines (CXCL2 and CXCL10), and promoted the expressions of accessory and costimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80, CD86, MHC I and MHC II). RNA-seq analysis identified 721 DEGs, 1575 GO terms and 69 KEGG pathways. The pathway inhibition assay presented that MAPK and NF-κB pathways were essential to macrophage activation by CHPs. TLR4 was revealed as a functional receptor and involved in the early recognition of CHPs. These results indicated that CHPs as a glycoprotein promoted macrophage polarization to M1 phenotype mainly via TLR4-dependent MAPK and NF-κB pathways.

Preventive intervention with Agaricus blazei murill polysaccharide exerts anti-tumor immune effect on intraperitoneal metastasis colorectal cancer

Agaricus blazei murill (ABM) mainly exerts its antitumor effect via modulation of the immune system. However, the immunomodulatory role of the ABM polysaccharide (ABMP) in mice with subcutaneously and intraperitoneally implanted MC38 tumor remains to be explored. This study aimed to define the progression effect of inhibiting tumor of ABMP in subcutaneous and intraperitoneal models and its effect on tumor microenvironment (TME) metabolism. In vitro experiments showed that ABMP could significantly promote the activity of CD8+ T immune cells in the co-culture system and promoted their colorectal cancer killing function (p < 0.05). In vivo animal exploration further showed that ABMP could inhibit the growth of intraperitoneal but not subcutaneous tumors. MCR-ALS analysis revealed a significant reduction in the signal of lipid-related spectral components in the TME of peritoneal tumors after ABMP intervention. In addition, preventive intervention with ABMP increased ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids content in intraperitoneal TME, revealing that ABMP shifted the metabolic landscape of the TME to promote T cell function and achieved immune regulation. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of ABMP on colon cancer may be tumor stage-dependent, and that remodeling of fatty acid composition may be an important determinant of its action at any given stage.

Effect of the immunoregulation activity of a pectin polysaccharide from Saussurea laniceps petals on macrophage polarization

Saussurea laniceps is a traditional medicinal herb. In our previous study, a pectin polysaccharide, SLP-4, was isolated from the petals of S. laniceps. In this study, the immunomodulatory activity of SLP-4 was studied by analyzing its effects on macrophage (RAW 264.7 cells) polarization. The immunomodulatory activity assays indicated that SLP-4 could significantly enhance the pinocytic and phagocytic capacity and promote the expression and secretion of cytotoxic molecules (nitric oxide, increased by 6.4 times when the SLP-4 concentration was 800 μg/mL) and cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 increased by 7.7 and 11.9 times, respectively) in original macrophage. The possible mechanism could be attributed to the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathways through Toll-like receptors 2 and 4. Moreover, SLP-4 significantly induced M1 polarization of original macrophages and transferred macrophages from M2 to M1, but had little effect on the conversion of M1 macrophages into M2 phenotype. Overall, these results demonstrate the potential of SLP-4 as an attractive immunomodulating functional supplement.

Investigating immune-modulatory function of α-glucopyranose-rich compound polysaccharides by MC38-N4/OT-I co-culture system

The potential antitumor function of polysaccharides is well accepted, it is unclear whether polysaccharides have immunoregulatory effect on CD8+ T lymphocyte cells to attack tumor cells. To evaluate the CD8+ T function enhancing role of polysaccharide compounds, the MC38-N4/OT-I co-culture system was established. The synergistic and complementary immune effect of α-glucopyranose-rich compound polysaccharides can be achieved by manipulating the antigen-specific T-cell expansion capacity and efficacy. This study was designed to investigate the antitumor-enhancement activity of a α-glucopyranose-rich compound polysaccharides by determining the activation of CD8+ T cells in a co-culture system. Compared to the control group (42.5 % ± 0.72 %), the specific α-glucopyranose-rich compound polysaccharides, comprising Agaricus blazei Murill, Grifola frondosa and Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae, demonstrated a significant decrease (20.4 % ± 1.23 %, p < 0.05) in the survival rate of MC38-N4 cells in the co-culture system. Additionally, the α-glucopyranose-rich compound polysaccharides resulted in a substantial increase (p < 0.01) in the proportion of CD8+ T cells and CD62L+ central memory T cells, which is a less differentiated T cell subset with high immune activity. Collectively, we reported that specific polysaccharide combination, which remodel the function of cytotoxic T cells and provided a basis for improving immune functions by using the specific types of polysaccharides.

Immunomodulatory Effect of Cordyceps militaris Polysaccharide on RAW 264.7 Macrophages by Regulating MAPK Signaling Pathways

Polysaccharide is one of the principal bioactive components found in medicinal mushrooms and has been proven to enhance host immunity. However, the possible mechanism of immunomodulatory activity of Cordyceps militaris polysaccharide is not fully understood. Hot water extraction and alcohol precipitation, DEAE-Sephadex A-25 chromatography, and Sephadex G-100 chromatography were used to isolate polysaccharide from C. militaris. A high-molecular-weight polysaccharide isolated from C. militaris was designated as HCMP, which had an Mw of 6.18 × 105 Da and was composed of arabinose, galactose, glucose, mannose, and xylose in a mole ratio of 2.00:8.01:72.54:15.98:1.02. The polysaccharide content of HCMP was 91.2% ± 0.16. The test in vitro showed that HCMP activated mouse macrophage RAW 264.7 cells by enhancing phagocytosis and NO production, and by regulating mRNA expressions of inflammation-related molecules in RAW 264.7 cells. Western blotting revealed that HCMP induced the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Moreover, using inhibitors of MAPKs decreased the mRNA levels of inflammation-related molecules induced by HCMP. These data evidenced that the immunomodulatory effect of HCMP on RAW 264.7 macrophages was mediated via the MAPK signaling pathway. These findings suggested that HCMP could be developed as a potent immunomodulatory agent for use in functional foods and dietary supplements.

Structural Characterization and Screening for Anti-inflammatory Activity of Polysaccharides with Different Molecular Weights from Astragali Radix

Astragali Radix polysaccharides (APSs) exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activity, which is mainly related to immune regulation. At present, most available studies focus on total APSs or a certain component of APSs. However, systematic structural study and screening for the anti-inflammatory activity of polysaccharides with different molecular weights (MW) have yet to be conducted. In this study, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages were used as a model to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of APSs and its fractions. The results revealed that fraction APS-I had better anti-inflammatory effects than APS-II. After APS-I was hydrolyzed by trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), the resulting degradation products oligosaccharides were fully methylated. These derivatized oligosaccharides were further analyzed by MALDI-TOF-MS and UPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS. The results showed that APS-I was a hetero-polysaccharide with a molecular weight of about 2.0×106 Da, mainly consisting of glucose (46.8 %) and galactose (34.4 %). The degree of polymerization of Astragali Radix oligosaccharides (APOS) was 2-16. APOS were identified as 1,4-glucooligosaccharides and 1,4-galactooligosaccharides. The findings of this study lay the foundation for further elucidation of structure-function relationships of APSs and provide guidance for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.

Microanalysis Characterization and Immunomodulatory Effect for Selenium-Enriched Polysaccharide from Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers

Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers., referred to as Morel, is a medicinal and edible homologous fungus, which contains many bioactive substances. In Morel, polysaccharides are the most abundant and have various bioactivities. In the present work, two novel polysaccharides, Se-MPS and MPS, were prepared and purified from selenium-enriched (Se-enriched) and common Morel mycelia, respectively, and their structural and immunomodulatory properties were evaluated. The results show that Se-enriched treatment significantly changed the polysaccharides' chemical composition, molecular weight, and sugar chain configuration. In addition, the Se-enriched treatment also improved the polysaccharides' fragmentation and thermal stability. Importantly, Se-enriched Morel polysaccharide (Se-MPS) could significantly enhance phagocytosis of RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and, remarkably, activate their immune response via activating the TLR4-TRAF6-MAPKs-NF-κB cascade signaling pathway, finally exerting an immunomodulatory function. Based on these findings, selenium-enriched Morel polysaccharide appears to have more potential for development and utilization in functional foods or medicines than ordinary Morel polysaccharide.

Polysaccharides as antioxidants and prooxidants in managing the double-edged sword of reactive oxygen species

Polysaccharides, a class of naturally occurring carbohydrates, were widely presented in animals, plants, and microorganisms. Recently, health benefits of polysaccharides have attracted much attention due to their unique characteristics in reactive oxygen species (ROS) management. ROS, by-products of aerobic metabolism linked to food consumption, exhibited a dual role in protecting cells and fostering pathogenesis collectively termed double-edged sword. Some interesting studies reported that polysaccharides could behave as prooxidants under certain conditions, besides antioxidant capacities. Potentiation of the bright side of ROS could contribute to the host defense that was vitally important for the polysaccharides acting as biological response modifiers. Correspondingly, disease prevention of polysaccharides linked to the management of ROS production was systematically described and discussed in this review. Furthermore, major challenges and future prospects were presented, aiming to provide new insight into applying polysaccharides as functional food ingredients and medicine.

N-desulfated and reacetylated modification of heparin modulates macrophage polarization

Heparin as a widely used anticoagulant drug has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which have been rarely reported to be involved in macrophage polarization. Furthermore, the effects of structural modifications of heparin on the plasticity of macrophage functions have not been clearly understood. In this study, the N-desulfated reacetylated derivative of heparin (NDeSAcH) was prepared and its immunoregulatory effects of macrophage polarization were evaluated. The findings indicated that NDeSAcH could effectively promote the release of more nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in RAW264.7 cells than heparin. Moreover, the production of NO, IL-6 and TNF-α was significantly inhibited by NDeSAcH in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells, while the secretion of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) was suppressed in M2 macrophages. The N-desulfated and reacetylated group of heparin was proved to have two-side adjusting effects on the polarization of macrophages. This study suggested that NDeSAcH might be a promising candidate for modulating macrophage polarization and treating inflammation-related diseases.

The Effect of Poria cocos Polysaccharide PCP-1C on M1 Macrophage Polarization via the Notch Signaling Pathway

The homogeneous galactoglucan PCP-1C extracted from Poria cocos sclerotium has multiple biological activities. The present study demonstrated the effect of PCP-1C on the polarization of RAW 264.7 macrophages and the underlying molecular mechanism. Scanning electron microscopy showed that PCP-1C is a detrital-shaped polysaccharide with fish-scale patterns on the surface, with a high sugar content. The ELISA assay, qRT-PCR assay, and flow cytometry assay showed that the presence of PCP-1C could induce higher expression of M1 markers, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-12 (IL-12), when compared with the control and the LPS group, and it caused a decrease in the level of interleukin-10 (IL-10), which is the marker for M2 macrophages. At the same time, PCP-1C induces an increase in the CD86 (an M1 marker)/CD206 (an M2 marker) ratio. The results of the Western blot assay showed that PCP-1C induced activation of the Notch signaling pathway in macrophages. Notch1, ligand Jagged1, and Hes1 were all up-regulated with the incubation of PCP-1C. These results indicate that the homogeneous Poria cocos polysaccharide PCP-1C improves M1 macrophage polarization through the Notch signaling pathway.

Purification, structural elucidation and biological activities of exopolysaccharide produced by the endophytic Penicillium javanicum from Millettia speciosa Champ

An acid polysaccharide, named HP, was produced by endophytic Penicillium javanicum MSC-R1 isolated from southern medicine Millettia speciosa Champ. The molecular weight of HP was 37.8 kDa and consisted of Ara f, Galр, Glcр, Manр, and GlcрA with a molar ratio of 1.09: 3.47: 68.48: 16.59: 8.85. The glycosidic linkage of HP was proven to be →3, 4)-α-D-Glcр-(1→6)-α-D-Manр-(1→, →3, 4)-α-D-Glcр-(1→4)-α-D-Glcр-(1→, →3), →6)-α-D-Manр-(1→4)-α-D-Glcр-(1→, →3), β-D-Galр-(1→3)-α-D-Glcр-(1→, →4), →5)-α-L-Ara f -(1→3)-α-D-Glcр-(1→, →4), →6)-α-D-Manр-(1→4)-α-D-GlcAр-(1→ and →4)-α-D-GlcAр-(1→4)-α-D-Glcр-(1→, →3). Additionally, 250 μg/mL of HP possessed nontoxicity to RAW 264.7 cells and exhibited anti-inflammation activity. HP could significantly restrain the amount of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and NO release in RAW264.7, which property is possibly associated with its abundant glucosidic linkage. These results indicated that HP could be regarded as a ponderable ingredient for the health-beneficial functional foods.

Rich d-Fructose-Containing Polysaccharide Isolated from Myxopyrum smilacifolium Roots toward a Superior Antioxidant Biomaterial

The presented study attempts to unveil and evaluate the antioxidant activity of a novel heteropolysaccharide separated from the roots of Myxopyrum smilacifolium (denoted as PS-MSR). The molecular weight of PS-MSR is found to be 1.88 × 10⁴ Da and contains two principal sugars, which are d-glucose and d-fructose, in the backbone. Decoding the structure of the obtained PS-MSR sample has disclosed a novel polysaccharide for the first time. Indeed, the PS-MSR is composed of (1 → 3)-linked glucosyl units and (2 → 3)-linked fructosyl units. In addition, the 1D and 2D NMR spectra of the PS-MSR sample display the repeating unit of the isolated polysaccharide, [→3)-α-d-Glcp-(1 → 3)-β-d-Frucf-(2 → 3)-β-d-Frucf-2 → 3)-)-β-d-Frucf-β-(2→] _n . Interestingly, the PS-MSR sample exhibits outstanding antioxidant activity, signifying the potential utilization of the explored polysaccharide for antioxidant-based material.

Structural Characterization and Macrophage Polarization-Modulating Activity of a Novel Polysaccharide from Large Yellow Tea

A novel homogeneous polysaccharide (LYP-S3) that promotes the M2 polarization of macrophages was obtained from large yellow tea by a bioactivity-guided sequential isolation procedure and activity evaluation in the present study. Structural characterization revealed that LYP-S3 has an average molecular weight of 28.6 kDa and is composed of rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, glucose, and galacturonic acid at the molar ratio of 8.08:11.66:11.77:3.96:58.02. The main backbone of LYP-S3 consists of →4)-α-d-GalpA-6-OMe-(1→, β-d-GalpA-(1→, →4)-β-d-Galp-(→1, and →β-d-Galp-(1→, and the branches are composed of α-l-Araf-(→1, →5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, →2,4)-β-l-Rhap-(1→, →2)-β-l-Rhap-(1→, and →4)-β-d-Glcp-(1→. An in vitro bioactivity evaluation assay showed that LYP-S3 remarkably reduced the expression of M1 macrophage markers and increased the expression of M2 macrophage markers. In addition, LYP-S3 inhibited adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and blocked macrophage migration toward 3T3-L1 adipocytes in the cocultures of bone-marrow-derived monocytes and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Furthermore, LYP-S3 promoted the M2 polarization of macrophages in cocultures. These findings suggested that LYP-S3 has a potential function in preventing inflammation and obesity.

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.

Preparation, chemical structure, and immunostimulatory activity of a water-soluble heteropolysaccharide from Suillus granulatus fruiting bodies

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A water-soluble heteropolysaccharide (SGP2-1) was purified from Suillus granulatus.

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SGP2-1with Mw of 150.75 kDa had the (1 → 4)-α-Glcp backbone structure.

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SGP2-1 could be recognized by toll-like receptor 2 in RAW 264.7 macrophages.

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SGP2-1 enhanced pinocytic capacity and promoted ROS, NO, and cytokine production.

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SGP2-1 exerted immunoregulatory activity through MAPKs, PI3K/Akt and NF-κB pathways.

A water-soluble heteropolysaccharide (SGP2-1) was purified from Suillus granulatus fruiting bodies by anion-exchange chromatography and gel permeation chromatography. The structural characteristics were analyzed by high-performance gel permeation chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The immunostimulatory activity was investigated using RAW 264.7 macrophages. Results showed that SGP2-1 with weight average molecular weight of 150.75 kDa was composed of mannose, glucose, and xylose. The backbone of SGP2-1 was mainly composed of → 4)-α-Glcp-(1→, and the terminal group α-d-Glcp → was linked to the main chain by O-6 position. SGP2-1 could significantly enhance pinocytic capacity, reactive oxygen species production, and cytokines secretion. SGP2-1 exerted immunomodulatory effects through interacting with toll-like receptor 2, and activating mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B, and nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathways. These findings indicated that SGP2-1 could be explored as a potential immunomodulatory agent for application in functional foods.

Physicochemical, morpho-structural, and biological characterization of polysaccharides from three Polygonatum spp

Polygonatum species, including P. cyrtonema, P. kingianum, and P. sibiricum, are edible plants with medicinal purposes, which have long been consumed as food due to their high nutritional value. In this study, polysaccharides from P. cyrtonema (PCP), P. kingianum (PKP) and P. sibiricum (PSP) were obtained, and their physicochemical properties and in vitro biological activities were investigated. Our results demonstrated that PCP, PKP, and PSP consist of major fructose and minor glucose, galacturonic acid, and galactose in different molar ratios with the molecular weights of 8.5 × 10³ Da, 8.7 × 10³ Da, and 1.0 × 10⁴ Da, respectively. The three polysaccharides had triple-helical structures with β-d-Fruf, α-d-Glcp, α-d-Galp sugar residues, and an O-acetyl group, and displayed peak-shaped structures in different sizes. They also exhibited thermal, shear-thinning behavior and viscoelastic properties, and PCP presented the highest viscoelasticity. Moreover, they exerted strong free radical-scavenging abilities, and significant reducing capacity. PCP was the strongest, followed by PSP and then PKP. They significantly promoted the polarization of the M1 macrophage, with the effect of PCP ranking first. All three had similar effects on GLP-1 secretion. It is, therefore, necessary to identify the various roles of these three Polygonatum polysaccharides as functional agents based on their bioactivities and physicochemical properties.

Three Polygonatum polysaccharides with different physicochemical properties exert distinct effects on free radical-scavenging abilities and the promotion of M1 macrophage polarization, while they have similar effects on GLP-1 secretion.

Structural characterization of a pure polysaccharide from Bletilla striata tubers and its protective effect against H2O2-induced injury fibroblast cells

The present study investigated the structural characteristics and its protective effect against H₂O₂-induced injury fibroblast cells of Bletilla striata tuber polysaccharide. The polysaccharides were gently extracted by water and recovered using the method of alcohol precipitation, and after further purification by DEAE-Sepharose Fast Flow gel column, a pure polysaccharide (pBSP) was finally obtained. The structural characterization of pBSP were investigated by using periodate oxidation studies, Smith-degradation, FT-IR spectroscopy, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The antioxidant effect of pBSP was evaluated by inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human fibroblast model cells induced by H₂O₂. It was firstly reported that pBSP was composed of d-glucose and D-mannose in a molar ratio of 1.00:1.34 with a molecular weight of 327.6 kDa. The repeating units of pBSP contained (1 → 4)-linked-β-D-Manp, (1 → 4)-linked-α-D-Glcp and (1 → 3)-linked-β-D-Manp, and there was no branched chain. pBSP exhibited no toxic effect on fibroblasts cells and could protect them against H₂O₂-induced injuries. After pretreatment with pBSP for 24 h, the content of ROS in fibroblasts decreased significantly. These results not only confirm the availability B. striata, but also indicate that pBSP have potential antioxidant capacity. Our observations can provide foundation for further development of pBSP-based cosmetics.

Characterization of a neutral polysaccharide from pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch) with potential immunomodulatory activity

A neutral polysaccharide designated as CMDP-1a (molecular mass 9.263 kDa) was isolated from Cucurbita moschata Duch through hot water extraction, ethanol precipitation, and column chromatography. On the basis of methylation, fourier-transform infrared, monosaccharide composition, and one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analyses, the structure of CMDP-1a was determined to be a backbone composed of α-1,4 linked glucopyranosyl residues with α-Glcp residue linkage at backbone C-6. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed that CMDP-1a had a spherical conformation in solution. In immunostimulation assays, CMDP-1a promoted the proliferation of RAW 264.7 macrophages and significantly enhanced their pinocytic and phagocytic capacity. Furthermore, CMDP-1a induced the M1 polarization of original macrophages and the conversion of macrophages from M2 to M1, thereby modulating the balance of M1/M2 macrophages. These results indicated that CMDP-1a might be a potential immunomodulator for food purposes.

Structural characterization, anticancer, hypoglycemia and immune activities of polysaccharides from Russula virescens

Russula virescens is an edible wild mushroom that is widely distributed in south of China. This research aimed to analyze the structure characterization and evaluate the hypoglycemic, anticancer and immunological activities of two water soluble polysaccharides RVP-1 and RVP-2 from R. virescens. The results showed RVP-1 and RVP-2 were non-triple helix structured hetero-polysaccharides with different weight-average molecular weight 14,883 and 13,301 Da, respectively. Both RVP-1 and RVP-2 were composed of galactose, glucose, mannose and fructose, and the sugar residues were mainly linked by 1,6→, 1,2→, 1→ and 1,3,6→ glycosidic bonds. Moreover, the antidiabetic, anticancer and immune activities of RVP-1 and RVP-2 were explored in vitro methods. The two polysaccharides have potential for inhibiting α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities, suppressing HepG-2, A549 and MCF-7 cancer cells proliferation, and activating macrophage RAW 264.7 cells to secret immune cytokines for mediating cellular immune response. These findings provided a scientific basis for further utilization of polysaccharide from R. virescens.

Structural characterization of Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus polysaccharide 2 and its activation effects on RAW264.7 macrophages

Polysaccharides are important components of Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus that have been shown to exhibit significant immunomodulatory activity in our previous study. However, whether and how A. oxyphyllae fructus polysaccharides (AOFP) affect macrophages has not been determined. To further study the immunomodulatory activity of AOFP, the effect of AOFP on RAW264.7 cell activation was investigated in the present work. The results showed that AOFP2 significantly increased the phagocytic activity of RAW264.7 macrophages. AOFP2 promoted the secretion of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β, NO and iNOS and enhanced the Th2-type immune response via its activation effect on macrophages. Additionally, the structure of AOFP2 was characterized in the present study, as the structural features of polysaccharides determine their biological activities. AOFP2 was only composed of glucose, exhibiting an average molecular weight of 44.3 kDa. Furthermore, the infrared spectroscopy, methylation and nuclear magnetic resonance results indicated that AOFP2 consisted of → 4)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, →4,6)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → and T-α-Glcp.

Inhibition of inflammation-induced injury and cell migration by coelonin and militarine in PM2.5-exposed human lung alveolar epithelial A549 cells

Accumulating studies suggest that fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) pollutants in the air are easily enter into alveoli and even the bloodstream, resulting in an inflammatory response that not only triggers respiratory disorders but also causes permanent damage to various organs. Recent findings suggest that coelonin and militarine enriched in orchids can inhibit inflammation-induced injury against respiratory diseases. Here, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory properties of coelonin and militarine and examined their underlying molecular mechanisms in A549 cells exposed to PM_2.5. PM_2.5 induced significant intracellular reactive oxidative stress accumulation at a concentration of 250 μg/ml, as determined using the dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) fluorescence assay. Cell viability was assessed via the MTS assay to determine the concentrations of compounds appropriate for use in subsequent experiments. Data from the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that both coelonin (10 and 20 μg/ml) and militarine (5 and 10 μg/ml) mitigated PM_2.5-induced inflammation by reducing the generation of inflammatory factors, including interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed a remarkable decrease in IL-6, TNF-α, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) mRNA levels in the coelonin and militarine-pretreated groups. In Western blot analysis, expression of inhibitor of NF-κB (IκBα) protein in the coelonin and militarine pretreatment groups was significantly increased compared with the PM_2.5 (only) treatment group (P < 0.05), concomitant with a significant decrease in phospho-IκB kinase β/IκB kinase β (p-IKKβ/IKKβ), phospho-nuclear factor of kappa B p65/nuclear factor of kappa B p65 (p-NF-κBp65/NF-κBp65) and COX-2 proteins (P < 0.05). Both coelonin and militarine inhibited migration and inflammation by suppressing PM_2.5-induced IKK phosphorylation, and followed by IκBα protein degradation and NF-κB activation. Our collective data strongly supported the utility of coelonin and militarine as novel sources for development of treatments for PM_2.5-induced lung diseases.

Decoding the Capability of Lactobacillus plantarum W1 Isolated from Soybean Whey in Producing an Exopolysaccharide

This study aims at producing exopolysaccharides (EPS) from a lactic acid bacterial strain. The soybean whey-isolated Lactobacillus plantarum W1 (EPS-W1), which belongs to genus Lactobacillus, is identified using the phenylalanyl-tRNA sequencing method. Of all the examined strains, R-49778 (as numbered by BCCM/LMG Bacteria Collection, Ghent University, Belgium) showed the highest capability of producing exopolysaccharides. Structural characterization revealed a novel exopolysaccharide consisting of repeating units of →6)-d-Glcp-(1→; →3)-d-Manp-(1→; →3)-d-Glcp-(1→ and a branch of →6)-d-Manp-(1→; →2)-d-Glcp-(1→. This discovery opens up avenues for the production of EPS for food industries, functional foods, and biomedical applications.

Sea Cucumber Sterol Alleviates the Lipid Accumulation in High-Fat-Fructose Diet Fed Mice

The effect of marine-derived sea cucumber sterol (SS) with a special sulfate group on lipid accumulation remains unknown, although phytosterol has been proved to have many biological activities, including lowering blood cholesterol. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the alleviation of SS on lipid accumulation and the possible underlying mechanism using high-fat-fructose diet fed mice. Dietary administration with SS for 8 weeks reduced significantly the body weight gain and lipid levels in serum and liver. Especially, SS was superior to phytosterol in lowering lipid accumulation due to the great promotion of fatty acid β-oxidation, the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis, and the acceleration of cholesterol efflux. The findings found that sea cucumber sterol exhibited a more significant effect than phytosterol on alleviating HFF-diet-induced lipid accumulation through regulating lipid and cholesterol metabolism, which might be attributed to the difference in the branch chain and sulfate group.

Polysaccharide from flammuliana velutipes improves colitis via regulation of colonic microbial dysbiosis and inflammatory responses

The aim of this study is to investigate whether Flammuliana Velutipes Polysaccharide (FVP) could aid in the prevention of colitis. Effect of FVP on colitis was evaluated using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in rats. Influence of FVP on the expression of inflammation related biomarkers and signal pathway element of TLR4\NF-κB were assessed. The composition and taxonomy of colonic microbiota were analyzed by 16S rDNA high throughput sequencing, and the concentrations of caecal short fatty chain acids were assessed by chromatography-mass spectrometry. Our results showed that FVP treatment could regulate the colonic microbial dysbiosis and promote the levels of caecal short fatty chain acids, leading to down-regulation of TLR4\NF-κB signal pathway, which finally ameliorate the colitis. Thus, the present study is the first attempt to elucidate the effect of FVP on colitis and support the potential application of FVP as a functional food ingredient or preventive drugs for colitis.

A Novel Pectic Polysaccharide of Jujube Pomace: Structural Analysis and Intracellular Antioxidant Activities

After extraction from jujube pomace and purification by two columns (DEAE-Sepharose Fast Flow and Sepharcyl S-300), the structure of SAZMP4 was investigated by HPGPC, GC, FI-IR, GC-MS, NMR, SEM, and AFM. Analysis determined that SAZMP4 (Mw = 28.94 kDa) was a pectic polysaccharide mainly containing 1,4-linked GalA (93.48%) with side chains of 1,2,4-linked Rha and 1,3,5-linked Ara and terminals of 1-linked Rha and 1-linked Ara, which might be the homogalacturonan (HG) type with side chains of the RG-I type, corresponding to the results of NMR. In AFM and SEM images, self-assembly and aggregation of SAZMP4 were respectively observed indicating its structural features. The antioxidant activity of SAZMP4 against H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells was determined by activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, indicating SAZMP4 can be a natural antioxidant. Also, a better water retention capacity and thermal stability of SAZMP4 was observed based on DSC analysis, which could be applied in food industry as an additive.

Curdlan (Alcaligenes faecalis) (1→3)-β-d-Glucan Oligosaccharides Drive M1 Phenotype Polarization in Murine Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages via Activation of MAPKs and NF-κB Pathways

Functional oligosaccharides, particularly curdlan (1→3)-β-d-glucan oligosaccharides (GOS), play important roles in modulating host immune responses. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the immunostimulatory effects of GOS on macrophage polarization are not clear. In this work, GOS (5–1000 µg/mL) were non-toxic to bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) with improved pinocytic and bactericidal capacities. Incubation with GOS (100 µg/mL) induced M1 phenotype polarization of BMDMs as evidenced by increased CD11c⁺/CD86⁺ (10.1%) and M1 gene expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, interleukin (IL)-1β, and chemokine C-C-motif ligand 2. Accordingly, the secretion of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, and tumor necrosis factor-α, as well as the nitrite release of BMDMs were increased by GOS (100 µg/mL). Expression of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) of phosphorylated (p)-c-Jun amino-terminal kinase, p-extracellular signal regulated kinase, and p-p38 in BMDMs were increased by GOS, as well as the p-Stat1. Moreover, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p-p65 expression in BMDMs was promoted by GOS while it suppressed IκBα expression. Receptor blocking with anti-CR3 (CD11b/CD18) and anti-toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 antibodies diminished GOS induced M1 phenotype polarization with reduced mRNA expression of M1 genes, decreased cytokine and nitrite releases, and suppressed signaling pathway activation. Thus, CR3 (CD11b/CD18) and TLR2 mediated activation of MAPKs and NF-κB pathways are responsible for GOS induced polarization of BMDMs.