A novel inulin-type fructan from Asparagus cochinchinensis and its beneficial impact on human intestinal microbiota

Modulating butyric acid-producing bacterial community abundance and structure in the intestine of immunocompromised mice with neutral polysaccharides extracted from Codonopsis pilosula

Codonopsis pilosula, an important medicinal and edible plant in traditional Chinese medicine, is used widely as a tonifying herb for various immunodeficiency diseases. A neutral polysaccharide (CPPs-D1N1) was purified from C. pilosula, composed of fructose and glucose in a molar ratio of 97.28:2.72, with an average molecular weight of 5.985 kDa. Structural analysis revealed a backbone composed of →1)-β-D-Fruf-(2 → units with some β-D-Fruf-(2 → linkages. In a murine immunosuppression model induced by cyclophosphamide injection, oral treatment with C. pilosula polysaccharide was administered, investigating changes in gut microbiota during therapy. The polysaccharide modulated serum immunoglobulins (Ig-G, Ig-M), cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, TNFα), and spleen and thymus indices in immunodeficient mice. Additionally, functional gene primer sequencing enrichment methods revealed alterations in abundance, diversity, and structure of butyrate-producing bacterial populations in the gut, with primary differential genera identified as Butyribacter, Rumanococcus, Dysosmobacter, and Ruseburia. This study provides in vivo evidence supporting the beneficial effects of C. pilosula polysaccharide oral therapy in improving gut microbiota, particularly butyrate-producing bacteria, during treatment of immunosuppressive diseases.

An inulin-type polysaccharide from Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma can relieve psoriasis

Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma (AMR), an herb often found in compounded remedies for psoriasis, is rich in polysaccharides. However, the beneficial effects of AMR polysaccharides on psoriasis remain obscure. In this study, an inulin-type fructan-labelled AMP was extracted from the AMR. AMP has a molecular weight of 5.84 kDa and comprises fructose, glucose, and arabinose at a molar ratio of 93:5:2. Methylation and NMR analyses revealed that AMP comprises a linear backbone of 2,6-linked Fruf or 1,2-linked Fruf with branching 1,2,6-linked Fruf and terminates in T-Glcp. Animal studies verified that AMP can improve imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions and downregulate the Il-17a, Il-23, Il-22, Il-6, Il-12, and Tnf-α gene expression. Furthermore, we elucidated the underlying mechanisms using cellular experiments. The ability of AMP to inhibit hyperproliferation and the overexpression of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-23 genes in human immortal keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) stimulated by lipopolysaccharide was demonstrated. These results indicate that AMP may directly target keratinocytes to suppress excessive proliferation and contribute to anti-inflammatory responses, potentially by blocking the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. In summary, AMP has demonstrated potential as a prospective treatment strategy for psoriasis.

From ancient wisdom to modern science: Gut microbiota sheds light on property theory of traditional Chinese medicine

The property theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been practiced for thousands of years, playing a pivotal role in the clinical application of TCM. While advancements in energy metabolism, chemical composition analysis, machine learning, ion current modeling, and supercritical fluid technology have provided valuable insight into how aspects of TCM property theory may be measured, these studies only capture specific aspects of TCM property theory in isolation, overlooking the holistic perspective inherent in TCM. To systematically investigate the modern interpretation of the TCM property theory from multidimensional perspectives, we consulted the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020 edition) to compile a list of Chinese materia medica (CMM). Then, using the Latin names of each CMM and gut microbiota as keywords, we searched the PubMed database for relevant research on gut microbiota and CMM. The regulatory patterns of different herbs on gut microbiota were then summarized from the perspectives of the four natures, the five flavors and the meridian tropism. In terms of the four natures, we found that warm-natured medicines promoted the colonization of specific beneficial bacteria, while cold-natured medicines boosted populations of some beneficial bacteria while suppressing pathogenic bacteria. Analysis of the five flavors revealed that sweet-flavored and bitter-flavored CMMs positively influenced beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful bacteria. CMMs with different meridian tropism exhibited complex modulative patterns on gut microbiota, with Jueyin (Liver) and Taiyin (Lung) meridian CMMs generally exerting a stronger effect. The gut microbiota may be a biological indicator for characterizing the TCM property theory, which not only enhances our understanding of classic TCM theory but also contributes to its scientific advancement and application in healthcare. Please cite this article as: Yang YN, Zhan JG, Cao Y, Wu CM. From ancient wisdom to modern science: Gut microbiota sheds light on property theory of traditional Chinese medicine. J Integr Med 2024; 22(4): 413-445.

Structural elucidation and anti-psoriasis activity of a novel polysaccharide from Saussurea Costus

PSCP, a novel water-soluble polysaccharide, was extracted from the root of Saussurea costus and subsequently purified using DEAE-52 cellulose and Sephadax G-50 columns. The elucidation of its structure involved various techniques including HPGPC, FT-IR, HPLC-ELSD, GC-MS, NMR, AFM, and SEM. The results show that PSCP was a homogeneous heteropoly saccharide having molecular weight of 4131 Da and mainly composed of 1-α-D-Glcp-(-2-β-D-Fruf-1-)23-2-β-D-Fruf. The anti-psoriasis activity of PSCP was evaluated in imiquimod-induced psoriasis in Balb/C mice. This study revealed that treatment with PSCP resulted in a significant improvement in the pathological morphology of the skin and a reduction in the PASI score. Analysis of liver RNA-Seq data indicated that the MAPK signaling pathway may play a crucial role in the ability of PSCP to ameliorate psoriasis. PSCP was found to effectively inhibit the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK, and p38, as well as down-regulate the expression of the transcription factor AP-1 (c-fos and c-jun) in the nucleus, thereby reducing the expression of inflammatory factors. These findings suggest that PSCP holds promise as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of psoriasis.

Non-significant influence between aerobic and anaerobic sample transport materials on gut (fecal) microbiota in healthy and fat-metabolic disorder Thai adults

Background

The appropriate sample handling for human fecal microbiota studies is essential to prevent changes in bacterial composition and quantities that could lead to misinterpretation of the data.

Methods

This study firstly identified the potential effect of aerobic and anaerobic fecal sample collection and transport materials on microbiota and quantitative microbiota in healthy and fat-metabolic disorder Thai adults aged 23-43 years. We employed metagenomics followed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and 16S rRNA gene qPCR, to analyze taxonomic composition, alpha diversity, beta diversity, bacterial quantification, Pearson's correlation with clinical factors for fat-metabolic disorder, and the microbial community and species potential metabolic functions.

Results

Our study successfully obtained microbiota results in percent and quantitative compositions. Each sample exhibited quality sequences with a >99% Good's coverage index, and a relatively plateau rarefaction curve. Alpha diversity indices showed no statistical difference in percent and quantitative microbiota OTU richness and evenness, between aerobic and anaerobic sample transport materials. Obligate and facultative anaerobic species were analyzed and no statistical difference was observed. Supportively, the beta diversity analysis by non-metric multidimensional scale (NMDS) constructed using various beta diversity coefficients showed resembling microbiota community structures between aerobic and anaerobic sample transport groups (P = 0.86). On the other hand, the beta diversity could distinguish microbiota community structures between healthy and fat-metabolic disorder groups (P = 0.02), along with Pearson's correlated clinical parameters (i.e., age, liver stiffness, GGT, BMI, and TC), the significantly associated bacterial species and their microbial metabolic functions. For example, genera such as Ruminococcus and Bifidobacterium in healthy human gut provide functions in metabolisms of cofactors and vitamins, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites against gut pathogens, energy metabolisms, digestive system, and carbohydrate metabolism. These microbial functional characteristics were also predicted as healthy individual biomarkers by LEfSe scores. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that aerobic sample collection and transport (<48 h) did not statistically affect the microbiota and quantitative microbiota analyses in alpha and beta diversity measurements. The study also showed that the short-term aerobic sample collection and transport still allowed fecal microbiota differentiation between healthy and fat-metabolic disorder subjects, similar to anaerobic sample collection and transport. The core microbiota were analyzed, and the findings were consistent. Moreover, the microbiota-related metabolic potentials and bacterial species biomarkers in healthy and fat-metabolic disorder were suggested with statistical bioinformatics (i.e., Bacteroides plebeius).

Oligosaccharides from Asparagus cochinchinensis for ameliorating LPS-induced acute lung injury in mice

Asparagi radix is an edible herb with medicinal properties and is now widely used in clinical applications for improving pulmonary inflammation. However, the lung-protective effect and the active constituents of Asparagi radix are yet to be elucidated. Herein, the potential pulmonary protective effect of the oligosaccharides of Asparagi radix was investigated. We firstly identified eighteen oligosaccharides with different degrees of polymerization from Asparagi radix using HPLC-QTOF MS. Oligosaccharides were analysed for 20 samples of Asparagi radix collected from various regions in China using HILIC-ELSD and were found to stably exist in this herb. In this study, we found that AROS significantly reduced NO production and effectively down-regulated the mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α in RAW 264.7 cells, thereby reducing the inflammatory response induced by LPS. AROS also inhibited LPS-stimulated intracellular ROS production. A murine model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury was used to evaluate the in vivo anti-inflammatory and lung protective efficacies of AROS. AROS ameliorated the damage to the pulmonary cellular architecture pathological injury and lung edema. AROS significantly decreased the levels of cytokines IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β; the levels of MPO and MDA; and superoxide dismutase consumption in vivo. This effect of oligosaccharides can explain the traditional usage of Asparagus cochinchinensis as a tonic medicine for respiratory problems, and oligosaccharides from Asparagi radix used as a natural ingredient can play an important role in protecting lung injury.

Identification of carbohydrate in Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl and inhibiting oxidative stress

The specific structure of Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl polysaccharide (PKP) has been rarely reported. In this study, an inulin-type fructan PKP-1, was extracted and purified from Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl, and its structural characteristics and antioxidants activity were evaluated. The molecular weights of PKP-1 was determined to be 4.802 kDa. Monosaccharide composition analysis evidenced that PKP-1 was composed of galactose, glucose and fructose in a molar ratio of 0.8 %:7.2 %:92.0 %. Glycosidic linkage and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis revealed that PKP-1 exhibited a primary sugar residue linkage of →1-β-d-Fruf-2→2,6-β-d-Fruf-1→, where β-d-Fruf-2→ acts as the side chain and links to the C-6 position of →2,6-β-d-Fruf-1→. In vitro antioxidant activity assays demonstrated that PKP-1 enhanced the mitigation of hepatic oxidative stress in HepG2 cells induced by free fatty acids. This effect was marked by increased enzymatic activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), along with elevated glutathione (GSH) levels. These findings indicate that PKP-1 could be used as a potential natural antioxidant.

Polysaccharide of Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr regulates macrophage immune response and epigenetic memory through TLR4-JNK/p38/ERK signaling pathway and histone modification

BACKGROUND

Innate immune memory of macrophages is closely linked to histone modifications. While various studies have demonstrated that the polysaccharide of Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr (ACMP), extracted through alcohol-alkali extraction, enhances macrophages' non-specific immune function; no literature currently addresses whether ACMP's regulatory effect is related to innate immune memory and histone modification.

PURPOSE

This study aims to investigate if ACMP induces innate immune memory emergence in macrophages via pattern recognition receptor (PRR).

STUDY DESIGN

After co-incubating different doses of ACMP with RAW264.7 cells and BMDM cells, we observed changes in signaling pathways related to PRR and assessed the presence of innate immune memory phenomenon in the cells.

METHODS

We observed the morphological characteristics of the ACMP using a scanning electron microscope, infrared spectrum, and HPLC pre-column derivatization method. We used q-PCR, Western blot, RNA-seq, and CUT&Tag-seq methods to examine ACMP's regulation of macrophage immune response and innate immune memory and explored its specific mechanism.

RESULTS

ACMP, primarily composed of Man, GlcN, Rha, Fuc, GalA, Xyl, Glc, Gal, Ara, and, exhibited a molar ratio of each monosaccharide (1.41: 0.35: 0.49: 0.18: 1.00: 97.12: 0.36: 3.58: 1.14). ACMP regulated immunological function in macrophages through the TLR4-MAPK-JNK/p38/ERK pathway. ACMP induced elevated levels of chromosomal H3K4me1, enhancing TNF-α, IL-1β, and other genes' responsiveness, allowing macrophages to develop innate immune memory to ACMP stimulation.

CONCLUSION

This study first time demonstrates that ACMP regulates immunological function through the TLR4-MAPK-JNK/ERK/p38 signaling pathway, distinct from prior reports. ACMP induces innate immune memory in macrophages in response to its immune stimulation by promoting increased H3K4me1 on chromosomes. This mechanism may be crucial in how plant polysaccharides regulate macrophages and the body's immune function.

Physicochemical, rheological, antioxidant and immunological properties of four novel non-inulin (poly)saccharides from Asparagus cochinchinensis

The impacts of four extraction techniques, including hot water, ultrasonic-assisted, complex enzyme-assisted and acid-assisted methods, on the morphological, physicochemical properties and bioactivities of Asparagus cochinchinensis (poly)saccharides (EACP, WACP, UACP, and AACP) were investigated and compared. The four samples were mainly composed of glucose, fructose, and galactose with molar ratios of 50.8:22.7:4.4 for WACP, 53.9:26.0:5.3 for UACP, 35.6:14.1:21.4 for AACP and 45.0:15.6:9.0 for EACP, respectively. The rheological result showed that ACPs were non-Newtonian fluids. EACP with high purity (97.65 %) had good DPPH, O2- and ABTS+ radical scavenging activities, and significantly promoted the proliferation of the RAW264.7 cells at low concentration. UACP had good Fe2+ chelating ability, radical (DPPH, O2- and OH) scavenging activities, which might be attributed to the existence of triple-helix structure. AACP had high yield, molecular weight (17,477.2 Da), high crystallinity (23.33 %), and good radical (OH and ABTS+) scavenging activities. All four significantly stimulated the transcript expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, as determined by RT-PCR. These results suggest that the exploitation and utilization of non-inulin (poly)saccharides extracted by ultrasonic-assisted, complex enzyme-assisted and acid-assisted extraction methods are potentially valuable as effective and natural immune adjuvants and antioxidants.

Anti-inflammatory activity of β-glucans from different sources before and after fermentation by fecal bacteria in vitro

BACKGROUND

β-Glucans are widely sourced and have various physiological effects, including anti-inflammatory effects. However, the strength of the anti-inflammatory activity of β-glucans from different sources remains unknown due to the lack of rapid and effective biomarkers. This study therefore aimed to screen out the β-glucans with strong anti-inflammatory activity from five different sources and to further screen out possible biomarkers in metabolites after fermenting the β-glucans with gut microorganisms.

RESULTS

The results showed that all five β-glucans inhibited the production of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pro-inflammatory mediators and suppressed the mRNA expression level of TLR4/MyD88. Their anti-inflammatory mechanisms involved the inhibition of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and suppression of mRNA expression of the NF-κB pathway and JNK pathway. Among them, barley β-glucan exhibited the strongest anti-inflammatory effect, followed by Ganoderma lucidum β-glucan. Enhanced anti-inflammatory activity of β-glucan was found after fermentation and may be related to the increased abundance of metabolites such as vanillin, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, caffeic acid, acetic acid, butyric acid, and lactic acid. They were strongly positively correlated to the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Blautia, suggesting that the production of those metabolites may be responsible for the flourishing of the beneficial bacteria.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, barley was a preferred raw material for the preparation of β-glucans with strong anti-inflammatory activity. Vanillin, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, caffeic acid, acetic acid, butyric acid, and lactic acid were the possible biomarkers that could be utilized to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of β-glucans. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of extraction methods on the chemical, structural, and rheological attributes of fructan derived from Arctium lappa L. roots

The focus of this study was the evaluation of how extraction techniques impact the chemical, structural, and rheological attributes of fructans extracted from Arctium lappa L. roots. Three distinct extraction procedures were used, utilizing water as solvent, infusion extraction conducted at ambient temperature (25 °C for 5 min), thermal extraction employing reflux (100 °C for 2 h), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (50 °C for 1.38 h with a 158 W output). Chemical characterization by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and colorimetric analyses revealed the obtaining of inulin-type fructans (yield 83 %). The degree of polymerization (DP) was found to be the lowest for ultrasound-assisted extraction (14.38), followed by the room-temperature (20.41) and thermal (21.14) extraction techniques. None of the extraction techniques appeared to modify the molecular structure of the isolated compounds. In X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses, distinct crystallization patterns were observed for the room-temperature and thermal extraction techniques, though all fractions consistently exhibited characteristic bands of inulin-type fructan. Rheological assessments indicated a viscoelastic nature of the fractions, with those extracted thermally demonstrating a greater viscosity. This study shows that the choice of extraction method can influence the structural characteristics of inulin-type fructans derived from the burdock root.

Decoding the role of the gut microbiome in gut-brain axis, stress-resilience, or stress-susceptibility: A review

Increased exposure to stress is associated with stress-related disorders, including depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative conditions. However, susceptibility to stress is not seen in every individual exposed to stress, and many of them exhibit resilience. Thus, developing resilience to stress could be a big breakthrough in stress-related disorders, with the potential to replace or act as an alternative to the available therapies. In this article, we have focused on the recent advancements in gut microbiome research and the potential role of the gut-brain axis (GBA) in developing resilience or susceptibility to stress. There might be a complex interaction between the autonomic nervous system (ANS), immune system, endocrine system, microbial metabolites, and bioactive lipids like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), neurotransmitters, and their metabolites that regulates the communication between the gut microbiota and the brain. High fiber intake, prebiotics, probiotics, plant supplements, and fecal microbiome transplant (FMT) could be beneficial against gut dysbiosis-associated brain disorders. These could promote the growth of SCFA-producing bacteria, thereby enhancing the gut barrier and reducing the gut inflammatory response, increase the expression of the claudin-2 protein associated with the gut barrier, and maintain the blood-brain barrier integrity by promoting the expression of tight junction proteins such as claudin-5. Their neuroprotective effects might also be related to enhancing the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1). Further investigations are needed in the field of the gut microbiome for the elucidation of the mechanisms by which gut dysbiosis contributes to the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders.

An inulin-type fructan isolated from Serratula chinensis alleviated the dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice through regulation of intestinal barrier and gut microbiota

Herein, we aimed to explore the polysaccharide material basis of Serratula chinensis and establish its beneficial effects against colitis. A neutral polysaccharide (SCP) was extracted from S. chinensis in high yield using hot water. The molecular weights were calculated by HPSEC as Mw = 2928 Da, Mn = 2634 Da, and Mw/Mn = 1.11. FT-IR and 1D/2D-NMR spectroscopic analyses confirmed that SCP was an inulin-type fructan with α-D-Glcp-(1 → [1)-β-D-Fruf-(2]17) linkages. Treatment with SCP (200 or 400 mg/kg) alleviated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis symptoms, including the loss of body weight, increase of disease activity index score, and shortening of colon length. Histopathological and immunofluorescence assessments revealed that SCP could reduce pathological damage to the colon, restore the number of goblet cells, increase the content of glycoproteins in goblet cells and mucins in crypts, and enhance the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin. In addition, metagenomic sequencing revealed that SCP could improve the dysbiosis of gut microbiomes and act on multiple microbial functions. Moreover, SCP treatment increased the content of colonic acetic acid and butanoic acid. Collectively, these results indicated that SCP could alleviate the DSS-induced colitis in mice through regulation of intestinal barrier and gut microbiota.

Plant fructans: Recent advances in metabolism, evolution aspects and applications for human health

Fructans, fructose polymers, are one of the three major reserve carbohydrate in plants. The nutritional and therapeutic benefits of natural fructans in plants have attracted increasing interest by consumers and food industry. In the course of evolution, many plants have developed the ability of regulating plant fructans metabolism to produce fructans with different structures and chain lengths, which are strongly correlated with their survival in harsh environments. Exploring these evolution-related genes in fructans biosynthesis and de novo domestication of fructans-rich plants based on genome editing is a viable and promising approach to improve human dietary quality and reduce the risk of chronic disease. These advances will greatly facilitate breeding and production of tailor-made fructans as a healthy food ingredient from wild plants such as huangjing (Polygonatum cyrtonema). The purpose of this review is to broaden our knowledge on plant fructans biosynthesis, evolution and benefits to human health.

Integrating network pharmacology and experimental verification to explore the pharmacological mechanisms of asparagus against polycystic ovary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age that still lacks effective treatment. Inflammation is one of the important features of PCOS. Asparagus (ASP) has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging pharmacological effects, and its anti-tumor effects have been demonstrated in a variety of tumors. However, the role and mechanism of ASP in PCOS remain unclear.

METHODS

The active components of ASP and the key therapeutic targets for PCOS were obtained by network pharmacology. Molecular docking was used to simulate the binding of PRKCA to the active components of ASP. The effects of ASP on inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways in PCOS, and the regulation of PRKCA were examined by KGN, a human derived granulosa cell line. PCOS mouse model validated the results of in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology identified 9 major active ingredients of ASP with 73 therapeutic targets for PCOS. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment yielded 101 PCOS-related signaling pathways. The hub gene PRKCA was obtained after taking the gene intersection of the top 4 pathways. Molecular docking showed the binding of PRKCA to the 7 active components in ASP. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that ASP alleviated the course of PCOS through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects. ASP can partially restore the low expression of PRKCA in the PCOS models.

CONCLUSION

The therapeutic effect of ASP on PCOS is mainly achieved by targeting PRKCA through the 7 active components of ASP. Mechanistically, ASP alleviated the course of PCOS through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects, and PRKCA was its potential target.

RNA-Seq and 16S rRNA Reveals That Tian-Dong-Tang-Gan Powder Alleviates Environmental Stress-Induced Decline in Immune and Antioxidant Function and Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Litopenaeus vannami

Ammonia stress and nitrite stress can induce immune depression and oxidative stress in Litopenaeus vannami (L. vannamei). Earlier reports showed that L. vannamei immunity, resistance to ammonia stress, and resistance to nitrite stress improved after Tian-Dong-Tang-Gan Powder (TDTGP) treatment, but the mechanism is not clear. In this study, three thousand L. vannamei were fed different doses of TDTGP for 35 days and then subjected to ammonia and nitrite stress treatments for 72 h. Transcriptome and 16-Seq ribosomal RNA gene sequencing (16S rRNA-seq) were used to analyze hepatopancreas gene expression and changes in gut microbiota abundance in each group. The results showed that after TDTGP treatment, hepatopancreas mRNA expression levels of immunity- and antioxidant-related genes were increased, the abundance of Vibrionaceae in the gut microbiota was decreased, and the abundance of Rhodobacteraceae and Flavobacteriaceae was increased. In addition, after TDTGP treatment, the effects of ammonia and nitrite stress on the mRNA expression of Pu, cat-4, PPAF2, HO, Hsp90b1, etc. were reduced and the disruption of the gut microbiota was alleviated. In short, TDTGP can regulate the immunity and antioxidant of L. vannamei by increasing the expression levels of immunity- and antioxidant-related genes and regulating the abundance of Rhodobacteraceae and Flavobacteriaceae in the gut microbiota.

Structural Characterization and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of a Novel Polysaccharide from Duhaldea nervosa

In the present study, a novel water-soluble polysaccharide (DNP-1) was isolated and purified from the root of Duhaldea nervosa via column chromatography. Structural analyses indicated that DNP-1 had a linear backbone consisting of (2→1)-linked β-D- fructofuranosyl residues, ending with a (2→1) bonded α-D-glucopyranose. DNP-1 was a homogeneous polysaccharide with an average molecular weight of 3.7 kDa. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory activity of DNP-1 was investigated in vitro. The concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including NO, TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-2, and IL-6, in the DNP-1 treatment group was suppressed in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. DNP-1 was able to improve inflammatory injury by inhibiting the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These investigations into this polysaccharide from the root of Duhaldea nervosa provide a scientific basis for the further development of this plant. The results indicate that this Duhaldea nervosa polysaccharide could be used as a potential natural source for the treatment of inflammatory injury.

Inulin: properties and health benefits

Inulin, a soluble dietary fiber, is widely found in more than 36 000 plant species as a reserve polysaccharide. The primary sources of inulin, include Jerusalem artichoke, chicory, onion, garlic, barley, and dahlia, among which Jerusalem artichoke tubers and chicory roots are often used as raw materials for inulin production in the food industry. It is universally acknowledged that inulin as a prebiotic has an outstanding effect on the regulation of intestinal microbiota via stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria. In addition, inulin also exhibits excellent health benefits in regulating lipid metabolism, weight loss, lowering blood sugar, inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors, reducing the risk of colon cancer, enhancing mineral absorption, improving constipation, and relieving depression. In this review paper, we attempt to present an exhaustive overview of the function and health benefits of inulin.

Structural elucidation and hypoglycemic effect of an inulin-type fructan extracted from Stevia rebaudiana roots

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common chronic medical condition characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from abnormal insulin functionality, of which type 2 DM (T2DM) is the predominant form. An inulin-type fructan, denoted as SRRP, was obtained from Stevia rebaudiana roots via hot-water extraction and alcoholic precipitation, which was subsequently purified by column chromatography. The extracted SRRP sample had a molecular weight of 5.4 × 10³ Da. Structural analyses indicated that SRRP was composed of 2,1-linked-β-D-fructofuranosyl and α-D-glucopyranosyl residues in a ratio of approximately 29 : 1. In vivo assays revealed that SRRP significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels, improved insulin resistance, decreased oxidative stress, and regulated lipid metabolism in T2DM mouse models. In addition, SRRP altered the diversity of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in T2DM mice; it increased probiotic bacteria and the concentration of short-chain fatty acids and decreased harmful bacteria. The findings demonstrate the potential of SRRP in the treatment of T2DM.

Inulin-type fructans obtained from Atractylodis Macrocephalae by water/alkali extraction and immunoregulatory evaluation

Two homogenous polysaccharides extracted from Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. were investigated by water extraction (AMP-F_W) and alkali solution extraction (AMP-F_A) after purification by anion exchange column and size exclusion chromatography. The molecular weight of AMP-F_W and AMP-F_A were 2874 Da and 3438 Da, respectively, estimated by high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC). The monosaccharide compositions of AMP-F_W and AMP-F_A were glucose and fructose at a molar ratio of 0.11:0.89 determined by high performance anion exchange chromatography (HPAEC). The functional groups, glycosidic linkages and the chemical structure were characterized by FT-IR, GC-MS and NMR, which comprehensively indicated a similar inulin-type fructan structure of the two polysaccharides from A. macrocephala. However, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed different microstructures that irregular lamellar shape for the AMP-F_W and spheroid shape for the AMP-F_A. The further studies on immunomodulation showed that AMP-F_W at 50 μg/mL could significantly (P < 0.05) stimulate RAW 264.7 cells by enhancing the mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, which had a relative high immunomodulatory potential when compared to AMP-F_A. Their activation on different toll-like receptors (TLR) also indicated their different roles in the immunoregulation. Overall, these findings reported here will serve as the basis for further structure-activity relationship studies.

Network Pharmacology Analysis and Experimental Pharmacology Study Explore the Mechanism of Asparagus against Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant primary brain tumor, and there is an urgent need to explore effective therapeutic strategies to improve the prognosis of GBM patients. Asparagus (ASP) is a widely grown plant with a rich pharmacological profile that has been used to treat various cancers. However, its role in GBM remains unclear. In the study, we confirmed the inhibitory effect of ASP on GBM and explored the target and mechanism of ASP through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular biology experiments. We found that P53 is a potent target of ASP for GBM treatment, and its pharmacological mechanism is the activation of p53-dependent apoptosis. Our research provides an objective basis for the development and clinical application of ASP in GBM patients.

Preparation, Structural Characterisation, and Bioactivities of Fructans: A Review

Polysaccharides are important components of higher plants and have attracted increasing attention due to their many nutraceutical benefits in humans. Fructans, heterogeneous fructose polymers that serve as storage carbohydrates in various plants, represent one of the most important types of natural polysaccharides. Fructans have various physiological and therapeutic effects, which are beneficial to health, and have the ability to prevent or treat various diseases, allowing their wide use in the food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries. This article reviews the occurrence, metabolism, preparation, characterisation, analysis, and bioactivity of fructans. Further, their molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, linkages, and structural determination are described. Taken together, this review provides a theoretical foundation for further research into the structure-function relationships of fructans, as well as valuable new information and directions for further research and application of fructans in functional foods.

Effects of neutral polysaccharide from Platycodon grandiflorum on high-fat diet-induced obesity via the regulation of gut microbiota and metabolites

The obesity epidemic has become a global problem with far-reaching health and economic impact. Despite the numerous therapeutic efficacies of Platycodon grandiflorum, its role in modulating obesity-related metabolic disorders has not been clarified. In this study, a purified neutral polysaccharide, PGNP, was obtained from Platycodon grandiflorum. Based on methylation and NMR analyses, PGNP was found to be composed of 2,1-β-D-Fruf residues ending with a (1→2)-bonded α-D-Glcp. The protective effects of PGNP on high-fat HFD-induced obesity were assessed. According to our results, PGNP effectively alleviated the signs of metabolic syndrome, as demonstrated by reductions in body weight, hepatic steatosis, lipid profile, inflammatory response, and insulin resistance in obese mice. Under PGNP treatment, intestinal histomorphology and the tight junction protein, ZO-1, were well maintained. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and LC-MS were employed to assess the positive influence of PGNP on the gut microbiota and metabolites. PGNP effectively increased species diversity of gut microbiota and reversed the HFD-induced imbalance in the gut microbiota by decreasing the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio. The abundance of Bacteroides and Blautia were increased after PGNP treatment, while the relative abundance of Rikenella, Helicobacter were reduced. Furthermore, PGNP notably influenced the levels of microbial metabolites, including the increased levels of cholic and gamma-linolenic acid. Overall, PGNP might be a potential supplement for the regulation of gut microbiota and metabolites, further affecting obesity.

Nutritional composition of green asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.), edible part and by-products, and assessment of their effect on the growth of human gut-associated bacteria

Asparagus is considered a healthy food with a high content of bioactive compounds. In this study, the proximate and mineral composition, non-digestible carbohydrates and bioactive compounds of edible spear, spear by-product and root have been evaluated. Their activity on the growth of human gut-associated bacteria has been studied. The results support the high nutritional and functional value of the asparagus, including its by-products, highlighting the potential of the non-edible parts to be used as prebiotics. A remarkable content in xylose, inulin, flavonoids and saponins has been found. It has been shown that the spear by-product can be selectively used to promote the growth of commensal or probiotic lactobacilli and bifidobacteria strains. It has been confirmed that any part of the asparagus has a potential future as a healthy food or as health-promoting ingredients, however more work is required to identify the compounds able to modulate the human gut microbiota.

Asparagus Fructans as Emerging Prebiotics

Commercial fructans (inulin and oligofructose) are generally obtained from crops such as chicory, Jerusalem artichoke or agave. However, there are agricultural by-products, namely asparagus roots, which could be considered potential sources of fructans. In this work, the fructans extracted from asparagus roots and three commercial ones from chicory and agave were studied in order to compare their composition, physicochemical characteristics, and potential health effects. Asparagus fructans had similar chemical composition to the others, especially in moisture, simple sugars and total fructan contents. However, its contents of ash, protein and phenolic compounds were higher. FTIR analysis confirmed these differences in composition. Orafti^®GR showed the highest degree of polymerization (DP) of up to 40, with asparagus fructans (up to 25) falling between Orafti^®GR and the others (DP 10-11). Although asparagus fructan powder had a lower fructan content and lower DP than Orafti^®GR, its viscosity was higher, probably due to the presence of proteins. The existence of phenolic compounds lent antioxidant activity to asparagus fructans. The prebiotic activity in vitro of the four samples was similar and, in preliminary assays, asparagus fructan extract presented health effects related to infertility and diabetes diseases. All these characteristics confer a great potential for asparagus fructans to be included in the prebiotics market.

Structural elucidation and anti-nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharide

The chemical structure and pharmacological activity of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharides have garnered significant attention in recent years. In this study, a homogeneous polysaccharide, PCP1, was extracted from P. cyrtonema Hua rhizomes and purified. Monosaccharide composition analysis showed that PCP1 is primarily composed of fructose, glucose, and mannose. Chemical structure analysis showed that the main chain of PCP1 is composed mainly of →1)-β-D-Fruf-(2→ and →1,6)-β-D-Fruf-(2→, with small amounts of →6)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, →4)-β-D-Manp-(1→, and β-D-Glcp-(1→. The side chain is β-D-Fruf-(2→ linked at C-6 of →1,6)-β-D-Fruf-(2→. In vivo experiments showed that PCP1 mitigates liver pathological damage, improves abnormal lipid metabolism and oxidative stress, promotes the production of short-chain fatty acids, and balances the composition of the intestinal microbiota in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mice. Thus, PCP1 can be used as a natural ingredient in functional foods for the treatment of NAFLD.

Asparagus cochinchinensis: A review of its botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and applications

Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr. (A. cochinchinensis) is a traditional herbal medicine that is used to treat constipation, fever, pneumonia, stomachache, tracheitis, rhinitis, cataract, acne, urticaria. More than 90 compounds have been identified from different structural types in A. cochinchinensis, including steroidal saponins, C21-steroides, lignans, polysaccharides, amino acids, etc. These bioactive ingredients make A. cochinchinensis remarkable for its pharmacological effects on anti-asthma, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, anti-tumor, improving Alzheimer’s disease, neuroprotection, gut health-promoting and so on. Moreover, A. cochinchinensis also plays an important role in food, health product, cosmetic, and other fields. This review focused on the research publications of A. cochinchinensis and aimed to summarize the advances in the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and applications which will provide reference for the further studies and applications of A. cochinchinensis.

Asparagus cochinchinensis alleviates disturbances of lipid metabolism and gut microbiota in high-fat diet-induced obesity mice

Asparagus cochinchinensis is a valuable traditional Chinese medicine that has anti-inflammatory ability and effectively regulates the dysbiosis within the body. Obesity is usually characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation with aberrant gut microbiota. However, the role of Asparagus cochinchinensis against obesity remains unknown. Therefore, a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model with or without aqueous extract from Asparagus cochinchinensis root (ACE) treatment was established herein to determine whether ACE alleviated obesity and its involved mechanisms. Our results showed that ACE administration significantly decreased the weight gain and relieved dyslipidemia induced by HFD Treatment of ACE also improved glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in obese animal model, and remarkably decreased inflammation and lipogenesis in the liver and adipose. Moreover, administration of ACE significantly reshaped the gut microbiota of obese mice. These findings together suggest that ACE has beneficial effect against HFD-induced obesity and will provide valuable insights for the therapeutic potential of ACE against obesity and may aid in strategy-making for weight loss.

The entire chloroplast genome sequence of Asparagus cochinchinensis and genetic comparison to Asparagus species

Asparagus cochinchinensis is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant. The chloroplast (cp) genome study on A. cochinchinensis is poorly understood. In this research, we collected the data from the cp genome assembly and gene annotation of A. cochinchinensis, followed by further comparative analysis with six species in the genus Asparagus. The cp genome of A. cochinchinensis showed a circular quadripartite structure in the size of 157,095 bp, comprising a large single-copy (LSC), a small single-copy (SSC), and two inverted repeat (IR) regions. A total of 137 genes were annotated, consisting of 86 protein-coding genes, 8 ribosomal RNAs, 38 transfer RNAs, and 5 pseudo-genes. Forty scattered repetitive sequences and 247 simple sequence repeats loci were marked out. In addition, A/T-ending codons were shown to have a basis in the codon analysis. A cp genome comparative analysis revealed that a similar gene composition was detected in the IR and LSC/SSC regions with Asparagus species. Based on the complete cp genome sequence in Asparagaceae, the result showed that A. cochinchinensis was closely related to A. racemosus by phylogenetic analysis. Therefore, our study providing A. cochinchinensis genomic resources could effectively contribute to the phylogenetic analysis and molecular identification of the genus Asparagus.

Improving the digestive stability and prebiotic effect of carboxymethyl chitosan by grafting with gallic acid: In vitro gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation evaluation

Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) is a useful polysaccharide with potential applications in food, cosmetic and biomedical industries. Nonetheless, CMCS is unfavorable for maintaining intestinal flora balance. In this study, gallic acid (GA) was grafted with CMCS through ascorbic acid/hydrogen peroxide initiated graft copolymerization reaction, producing GA grafted CMCS (GA-g-CMCS). The digestive and fermentative behavior of CMCS and GA-g-CMCS were investigated by using in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation models. Results showed that the average molecular weight (M_w) of CMCS gradually decreased during saliva-gastro-intestinal digestion, changing from original sheet-like morphology to porous and rod-like fragments. However, the M_w and morphology of GA-g-CMCS were almost unchanged under saliva-gastro-intestinal digestion. Meanwhile, the grafted GA moiety was not released from GA-g-CMCS during saliva-gastro-intestinal digestion. As compared with CMCS fermentation, GA-g-CMCS fermentation significantly suppressed the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella, Paeniclostridium, Parabacteroides, Lachnoclostridium, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, UBA1819 and Butyricimonas, while facilitated the relative abundance of Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Fusobacterium and Lachnospira. In addition, GA-g-CMCS fermentation significantly enhanced the production of short-chain fatty acids. These findings suggested that the digestive stability and prebiotic effect of CMCS were improved by grafting with GA.

Effect of different cadmium levels in Boletus griseus on bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and intestinal flora by establishing a complete bionic digestion system in vitro

The bioaccessibility and bioavailability of different cadmium (Cd) levels (low: 7.31 mg/kg, medium: 24.20 mg/kg, high: 41.64 mg/kg) in Boletus griseus were evaluated by establishing a bionic digestive system in vitro. The results showed that the bioaccessibility of high Cd level by gastrointestinal digestion was significantly higher than other two levels. Further, colonic digestion significantly increased the bioaccessibilities of low Cd level (p < 0.05). After intestinal flora fermentation, the bioaccessibilities of different Cd levels significantly decreased (p < 0.05), and high and medium Cd levels had no significant difference (p > 0.05). A Caco-2 monolayer cell model was established to evaluate the bioavailability of Cd. The bioavailabilities of low and high Cd levels by gastrointestinal digestion were 8.75 and 10.58%, and the bioavailabilities increased by 38.17% and 5.20% after colonic digestion, respectively. Furthermore, Cd could affect diversity, composition, and balance of intestinal flora, and the relative abundances of several genera were correlation with Cd levels in B. griseus.

Construction of inulin-based selenium nanoparticles to improve the antitumor activity of an inulin-type fructan from chicory

Cancer has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is urgent to develop new antitumor drugs with high efficiency and low toxicity. In this study, an inulin-type fructan CIP70-1 was purified and characterized from chicory and showed weak antitumor activity. To improve its antitumor effects, inulin-based selenium nanoparticles (CIP-SeNPs) were constructed and characterized. CIP-SeNPs were spherical nanoparticles (60 nm), which remained stable in water for more than 3 months. A cellular antitumor assay revealed that CIP-SeNPs had stronger inhibitory effects on cancer cells (MCF-7, A549, and HepG2) than CIP70-1 alone. Furthermore, the in vivo antitumor effects of CIP-SeNPs were confirmed using zebrafish models. The results showed that CIP-SeNPs significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of tumors as well as the angiogenesis of transgenic zebrafish in the concentration range of 1-4 μg/mL.

Combining Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation to Study the Action and Mechanism of Water extract of Asparagus Against Colorectal Cancer

Asparagus (ASP) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine with nourishing, moistening, fire-clearing, cough-suppressing, and intestinal effects. In addition, it exerts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, immunity-enhancing, and anti-tumor pharmacological effect. The anti-tumor effect of ASP has been studied in hepatocellular carcinoma. However, its action and pharmacological mechanism in colorectal cancer (CRC) are unclear. The present study aimed to identify the potential targets of ASP for CRC treatment using network pharmacology and explore its possible therapeutic mechanisms using in vitro and in vivo experiments. The active compounds and potential targets of ASP were obtained from the TCMSP database, followed by CRC-related target genes identification using GeneCards and OMIM databases, which were matched with the potential targets of ASP. Based on the matching results, potential targets and signaling pathways were identified by protein-protein interaction (PPI), gene ontology (GO) functions, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Finally, in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to further validate the anti-cancer effects of ASP on CRC. Network pharmacology analysis identified nine active components from ASP from the database based on oral bioavailability and drug similarity index, and 157 potential targets related to ASP were predicted. The PPI network identified tumor protein 53 (TP53), Fos proto-oncogene, AP-1 transcription factor subunit (FOS), and AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1) as key targets. GO analysis showed that ASP might act through response to wounding, membrane raft, and transcription factor binding. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that ASP may affect CRC through the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase PI3K/AKT/mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase (mTOR) signaling pathway. In vitro, ASP inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCT116 and LOVO cells, and caused G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis in CRC cells. In vivo, ASP significantly inhibited the growth of CRC transplanted tumors in nude mice. Furthermore, pathway analysis confirmed that ASP could exert its therapeutic effects on CRC by regulating cell proliferation and survival through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. This study is the first to report the potential role of ASP in the treatment of colorectal cancer.

Modulatory effects of polysaccharides from plants, marine algae and edible mushrooms on gut microbiota and related health benefits: A review

Naturally occurring carbohydrate polymers containing non-starch polysaccharides (NPs) are a class of biomacromolecules isolated from plants, marine algae, and edible mushrooms, and their biological activities has shown potential uses in the prevention and treatment of human diseases. Importantly, NPs serve as prebiotics to provide health benefits to the host through stimulating the proliferation of beneficial gut microbiota (GM) and enhancing the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). The composition and diversity of GM play a critical role in regulating host health and have been extensively studied in recent years. In this review, the extraction, isolation, purification, and structural characterization of NPs derived from plants, marine algae, and edible mushrooms are outlined. Importantly, the degradation and metabolism of these NPs in the intestinal tract, the effects of NPs on the microbial community and SCFAs generation, and the beneficial effects of NPs on host health by modulating GM are systematically highlighted. Overall, we hope that this review can provide some theoretical references and a new perspective for applications of NPs as prebiotics in functional food and drug development.

Yogurt Enriched with Inulin Ameliorated Reproductive Functions and Regulated Gut Microbiota in Dehydroepiandrosterone-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Mice

The effects of synbiotic yogurt supplemented with inulin on the pathological manifestations and gut microbiota-bile acid axis were investigated using a dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) mice model. Female C57BL/6J mice were injected subcutaneously with DHEA at a dose of 6 mg/100 g BW for 20 days to establish a PCOS mouse model. Then, the PCOS mice were treated with yogurt containing inulin (6% w/w) at 15 mL/kg BW for 24 days. Results showed that supplementation of synbiotic yogurt enriched with inulin to PCOS mice decreased the body weight gain, improved estrus cycles and ovary morphology, and reduced the levels of luteinizing hormone while increasing the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and interleukin-22 in serum. At the genus level, synbiotic yogurt increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia. PICRUSt analysis indicated that KEGG pathways including bile acid biosynthesis were changed after inulin-enriched synbiotic yogurt supplementation. Synbiotic yogurt enriched with inulin also modulated the bile acid profiles. In conclusion, inulin-enriched synbiotic yogurt alleviated reproductive dysfunction and modulated gut microbiota and bile acid profiles in PCOS mice.

Structural characterization of polysaccharide purified from Amanita caesarea and its pharmacological basis for application in Alzheimer's disease: endoplasmic reticulum stress

Alzheimer's disease (AD) leads to progressive declines in memory and learning. This disease may arise from endoplasmic reticulum stress due to protein misfolding, which promotes inflammatory pathway activation and induces neuronal cell apoptosis. Polysaccharide is one of the main active components of the mushroom Amanita caesarea (A. caesarea) and has been proven to act as an antioxidant, immune regulatory and anti-inflammatory agent with neurodevelopmental effects. In this study, polysaccharide isolated from A. caesarea (ACPS2) was subjected to analysis to determine the main components, homogeneity and molecular weight and characterize the structure. Furthermore, APP/PS1 mice were orally treated with ACPS2 for 6 weeks. Structural characterization of ACPS2 revealed a mass average molar mass of 16.6 kDa and a structure containing a main chain and branching. In vivo, treatment with ACPS2 for 6 weeks significantly improved cognition and anxious behavior in APP/PS1 mice using Morris water maze and open-field test. Alleviation of brain injury, amyloid-β deposition and tau hyperphosphorylation were observed in ACPS2-treated AD mice. No changes in other tissues were observed. ACPS2 appeared to alleviate inflammation in vivo, as determined by decreases in the serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β relative to those in non-treated mice. ACPS2 improved cholinergic system function and stabilized oxidative stress in APP/PS1 mice. Proteomics and bioinformatics analyses showed that the therapeutic effect of ACPS2 is achieved through regulation of oxidative stress-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress. Furthermore, ACPS2 exerted anti-AD effects by regulating nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling, thereby inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation.

Gut microbiota mediates the effects of inulin on enhancing sulfomucin production and mucosal barrier function in a pig model

Dietary fibers (DFs) have many beneficial effects on intestinal health by ameliorating intestinal inflammation and modulating the microbial community composition, thereby affecting the barrier function. This study aims to characterize the gut microbiota of pigs fed with DFs, revealing a link between the intestinal microbiota and mucin chemotypes. Pigs (six per group) were randomly allotted to consume one of the following diets: control (CON) or a diet supplemented with 5% microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) or inulin (INU) for 72 days. We found that INU but not MCC enhanced the colonic barrier function by promoting the expression of ZO-1, Occludin and MUC2 and reducing the colonic crypt depth. INU increased sulfomucin production and mRNA levels of sulfotransferases Gal3ST1 and Gal3ST2. Goblet cells in the ileum were found to contain predominantly sialomucins while colonic goblet cells were dominated by sulfomucins with sialomucins absent. DF consumption increased the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) of the ileum and colon compared to the CON diet. Moreover, the results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis revealed that DFs significantly altered the composition of ileal and colonic mucosal microbiota. Network analysis indicated that INU-induced changes in bacterial genera and SCFAs, such as Akkermansia and butyrate, were significantly related with sulfomucins and the mucosal barrier function-gene in pigs. Collectively, these findings suggest that the intestinal mucosal microbiota and SCFAs induced by INU play a crucial role in modulating the chemotypes of mucin and the barrier function.

Preparation and characterization of sulfated inulin-type fructans from Jerusalem artichoke tubers and their antitumor activity

The modification of polysaccharides is important for enhancing their biological activities. In this study, a pure inulin-type fructan, denoted as Jerusalem artichoke polysaccharide (P-JAP), was purified from Jerusalem artichoke tubers and modified by sulfation via treatment with a sulfur trioxide-pyridine complex to produce its sulfated derivative (S-JAP). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopic analysis confirmed the successful introduction of sulfate groups. The inhibitory effects of S-JAP on the proliferation of human liver hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells was evaluated via a CCK-8 assay, and the pro-apoptotic effects were assessed using annexin V-FITC/PI double staining. The inhibition rates of various concentrations of S-JAP on HepG2 cells after 24, 48, and 72 h were significantly higher than those of P-JAP; moreover, S-JAP succeeded in promoting cell apoptosis. Thus, the sulfate-modified polysaccharide extracted from Jerusalem artichoke tubers was shown to exhibit effective antitumor activity with potential for further development.

Structures of fructan and galactan from Polygonatum cyrtonema and their utilization by probiotic bacteria

Polygonatum cyrtonema is a known tonic herb in Chinese Materia Medica, extensively consumed in China, but the structure and activity of its polysaccharide components remain to be clarified. Herein, two new polysaccharides (a fructan and a galactan) were purified from the dried and the processed P. cyrtonema rhizome, respectively. Structural analysis suggested that the fructan consisted of a (2 → 6) linked β-d-Fruf residues backbone with an internal α-d-Glcp residue and two (2 → 1) linked β-d-Fruf residues branches, and that the galactan was a (1 → 4)-β-d-galactan branched with a single β-d-galactose at C-6 at about every nine residues in its main chain. The bioactive assay showed that the fructan and the galactan remarkably promoted growth of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains, indicating that they possess prebiotic activity. These findings may help expand the application of the polysaccharides from the tonic herb P. cyrtonema as functional ingredients in food products.

Enhanced antitumor activity of inulin-capped Se nanoparticles synthesized using Jerusalem artichoke tubers

An inulin polysaccharide with a molecular weight of ~ 2600 Da was derived from Jerusalem artichoke tubers and referred to as "JAP". Previous studies have shown that inulin can improve glucose tolerance and the liver lipid profile; however, its antitumor activity remains to be examined in detail. Therefore, to investigate the possible improvement of the antitumor activity of JAP, a novel nanostructured biomaterial was constructed by capping Se nanoparticles with JAP using sodium selenite, via a redox reaction with ascorbic acid, and referred to as "JAP-SeNPs". Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the average diameter of JAP-SeNPs is ~ 50 nm, and the C:Se mass ratio in JAP-SeNPs was found to be 15.4:1 by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The well-dispersed JAP-SeNPs exhibited a significant in vitro antiproliferative effect on mouse forestomach carcinoma cells at a concentration of 400 μg/mL when incubated for 48 h, with an inhibition rate of 41.5%. Moreover, 38.9% of later apoptotic cells were observed. These results reveal that a combination of Se and JAP can effectively enhance the antitumor activity of polysaccharides obtained from Jerusalem artichoke tubers.

Probiotics, Prebiotics and Postbiotics on Mitigation of Depression Symptoms: Modulation of the Brain-Gut-Microbiome Axis

The brain–gut–microbiome axis is a bidirectional communication pathway between the gut microbiota and the central nervous system. The growing interest in the gut microbiota and mechanisms of its interaction with the brain has contributed to the considerable attention given to the potential use of probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics in the prevention and treatment of depressive disorders. This review discusses the up-to-date findings in preclinical and clinical trials regarding the use of pro-, pre- and postbiotics in depressive disorders. Studies in rodent models of depression show that some of them inhibit inflammation, decrease corticosterone level and change the level of neurometabolites, which consequently lead to mitigation of the symptoms of depression. Moreover, certain clinical studies have indicated improvement in mood as well as changes in biochemical parameters in patients suffering from depressive disorders.

Structural elucidation and physicochemical characteristics of a novel high-molecular-weight fructan from halotolerant Bacillus sp. SCU-E108

An exopolysaccharide, EPS-B108, was isolated from the fermented broth (with a yield of 11.3 g/L) of halotolerant Bacillus sp. SCU-E108 by ethanol precipitation, anion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography, and well characterized by means of physical, chemical and spectral techniques. Data indicated that EPS-B108 was composed solely of fructose with a high molecular weight of 3.578 × 10⁷ g/mol, and contained a β-(2 → 6)-linked d-Fruf backbone with a single β-d-Fruf at C-1 position. An irregular saccular- or cake-like shape was observed under the enlarged view. It showed no acute oral toxicity in mice, and had good thermal stability (242 °C), solubility in water (91.3%) and oil-holding capacity (1717.0%). Steady-shear flow and dynamical viscoelasticity of aqueous EPS-B108 solutions varied with the polymer concentration, shear rate and temperature, and were described by the Power-law model. Together, these findings support the further application of EPS-B108 as an alternative source of functional food additives and ingredients.

Fructans with different degrees of polymerization and their performance as carrier matrices of spray dried blue colorant

Inulin-type fructans with different degrees of polymerization (DPs) were used as wall materials for the blue colorant produced from the crosslinking between genipin and milk proteins. The impact of using fructooligosaccharides (FOS) with DP = 5 and inulins with DP ≥ 10 (GR-In) and DP ≥ 23 (HP-In) on the physical (microstructure, size, water activity, wettability, solubility, water adsorption, glass transition temperature, and color), chemical (free genipin retention and moisture), and technological (colorant power, pH stability, and thermal stability) properties of the powdered blue colorant was examined. Inulins were more efficient carriers as seen from the physical characteristics of the microparticles. FOS and GR-In promoted higher retention of free genipin than HP-In. Additionally, their lower DP influenced the rehydration proprieties as well as the color intensity and colorant power. The DP did not affect the physical stability of the colorant at different pH conditions or at high temperature. Our findings demonstrated that the DP of the fructan exhibited a strong impact on the blue intensity of the samples and also their rehydration capacity.

Structural characteristics and in vitro and in vivo immunoregulatory properties of a gluco-arabinan from Angelica dahurica

A water-soluble polysaccharide identified here as ADP80-2 was acquired from Angelica dahurica. ADP80-2 was a gluco-arabinan composed of arabinose and a trace of glucose with a molecular weight of 9950 g/mol. The backbone of ADP80-2 comprised →5)-α-L-Araf-(1→, →3, 5)-α-L-Araf-(1→, →6)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, with a terminal branch α-L-Araf-(1 → residue. In terms of immunoregulatory activity, ADP80-2 can significantly promote the phagocytosis, the production of nitric oxide (NO), and the secretion of cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) of macrophage. In addition to the cellular immunomodulatory activities, the chemokines related to immunoregulation were significantly increased in the zebrafish model after treated with ADP80-2. These biological results indicated that ADP80-2 with immunomodulatory effects was expected to be useful for the development of new immunomodulatory agents. Simultaneously, the discovery of ADP80-2 further revealed the chemical composition of A. dahurica used as a traditional Chinese medicine and spice.

Analytical Characterization of an Inulin-Type Fructooligosaccharide from Root-Tubers of Asphodelusramosus L

Plant-based systems continue to play a pivotal role in healthcare, and their use has been extensively documented. Asphodelus L. is a genus comprising various herbaceous species, known by the trivial name Asphodelus. These plants have been known since antiquity for both food and therapeutic uses, especially for treating several diseases associated with inflammatory and infectious skin disorders. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of different constituents, mainly anthraquinones, triterpenoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. Although extensive literature has been published on these constituents, a paucity of information has been reported regarding the carbohydrate composition, such as fructans and fructan-like derivatives. The extraction of water-soluble neutral polysaccharides is commonly performed using water extraction, at times assisted by microwaves and ultrasounds. Herein, we reported the investigation of the alkaline extraction of root-tubers of Asphodelus ramosus L., analyzing the water-soluble polysaccharides obtained by precipitation from the alkaline extract and its subsequent purification by chromatography. A polysaccharide was isolated by alkaline extraction; the HPTLC study to determine its composition showed fructose as the main monosaccharide. FT-IR analysis showed the presence of an inulin-type structure, and NMR analyses allowed us to conclude that A. ramosus roots contain polysaccharide with an inulin-type fructooligosaccharide with a degree of polymerization of 7–8.

Structure of a laminarin-type β-(1→3)-glucan from brown algae Sargassum henslowianum and its potential on regulating gut microbiota

A homogeneous polysaccharide named SHNP with apparent molecular weight of 8.4 kDa was purified from brown algae Sargassum henslowianum using ethanol precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography, and gel-filtration column chromatography. Structural analyses reveal that SHNP is completely composed of glucose, and its backbone consists of β-D-(1→3)-Glcp with side chains comprising t-β-D-Glcp attached at the O-6 position. Thus, SHNP is a laminarin-type polysaccharide. In vitro fermentation test results showed that SHNP was digested by gut microbiota; the pH value in the fecal culture of SHNP was significantly decreased; and total short-chain fatty acids, acetic, propionic and n-butyric acids were significantly increased. Furthermore, SHNP regulated the intestinal microbiota composition by stimulating the growth of species belonging to Enterobacteriaceae while depleting Haemophilus parainfluenzae and Gemmiger formicilis. Taken together, these results indicate that SHNP has the potential for regulating gut microbiota, but its specific role in the regulation requires to be further investigated.

Engineering Exosome-Like Nanovesicles Derived from Asparagus cochinchinensis Can Inhibit the Proliferation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells with Better Safety Profile

BACKGROUND

Exosomes are a type of membrane vesicles secreted by living cells. Recent studies suggest exosome-like nanovesicles (ELNVs) from fruits and vegetables are involved in tissue renewal process and functional regulation against inflammatory diseases or cancers. However, there are few reports on ELNVs derived from medicinal plants.

METHODS

ELNVs derived from Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr. (ACNVs) were isolated and characterized. Cytotoxicity, antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing capacity of ACNVs against hepatoma carcinoma cell were assessed. The endocytosis mechanism of ACNVs was evaluated on Hep G2 cells in the presence of different endocytosis inhibitors. In vivo distribution of ACNVs was detected in healthy and tumor-bearing mice after scavenger receptors (SRs) blockade. PEG engineering of ACNVs was achieved through optimizing the pharmacokinetic profiles. In vivo antitumor activity and toxicity were evaluated in Hep G2 cell xenograft model.

RESULTS

ACNVs were isolated and purified using a differential centrifugation method accompanied by sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation. The optimized ACNVs had an average size of about 119 nm and showed a typical cup-shaped nanostructure containing lipids, proteins, and RNAs. ACNVs were found to possess specific antitumor cell proliferation activity associated with an apoptosis-inducing pathway. ACNVs could be internalized into tumor cells mainly via phagocytosis, but they were quickly cleared once entering the blood. Blocking the SRs or PEGylation decoration prolonged the blood circulation time and increased the accumulation of ACNVs in tumor sites. In vivo antitumor results showed that PEGylated ACNVs could significantly inhibit tumor growth without side effects.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a promising functional nano platform derived from edible Asparagus cochinchinensis that can be used in antitumor therapy with negligible side effects.