Value added immunoregulatory polysaccharides of Hericium erinaceus and their effect on the gut microbiota

Star anise (Illicium verum Hook. F.) polysaccharides: Potential therapeutic management for obesity, hypertension, and diabetes

This study explores the extraction of polysaccharides from star anise (Illicium verum Hook. f.) with its anti-obesity, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties. The aim is to optimize the extraction conditions of star anise polysaccharides (SAP) utilizing propane alcohols-based deep eutectic solvents and microwave-assisted methods. The optimized conditions resulted in an extraction yield of 5.14%. The characteristics of acidic pectin-like SAP, including high viscosity (44.86 mPa s), high oil-holding capacity (14.39%), a high degree of esterification (72.53%), gel-like properties, highly amorphous, a high galacturonic acid concentration, and a highly branching size polysaccharide structure, significantly contribute to their potent inhibition of pancreatic lipase (86.67%), angiotensin-converting enzyme (73.47%), and α-glucosidase (82.33%) activities as well as to their antioxidant properties of azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS, 34.94%) and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP, 0.56 mM FeSO4). Therefore, SAP could be used as a potential therapeutic agent for obesity, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus management.

Structural properties of glucan from Russula griseocarnosa and its immunomodulatory activities mediated via T cell differentiation

The polysaccharide, RGP2, was isolated from Russula griseocarnosa and its immunostimulatory effects were confirmed in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppressed mice. Following purification via chromatography, structural analysis revealed that RGP2 had a molecular weight of 11.82 kDa and consisted of glucose (Glc), galactose (Gal), mannose, glucuronic acid and glucosamine. Bond structure analysis and nuclear magnetic resonance characterization confirmed that the main chain of RGP2 was formed by →6)-β-D-Glcp-(1→, →3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→ and →6)-α-D-Galp-(1→, which was substituted at O-3 of →6)-β-D-Glcp-(1→ by β-D-Glcp-(1→. RGP2 was found to ameliorate pathological damage in the spleen and enhance immune cell activity in immunosuppressed mice. Based on combined multiomics analysis, RGP2 altered the abundance of immune-related microbiota (such as Lactobacillus, Faecalibacterium, and Bacteroides) in the gut and metabolites (uridine, leucine, and tryptophan) in the serum. Compared with immunosuppressed mice, RGP2 also restored the function of antigen-presenting cells, promoted the polarization of macrophages into the M1 phenotype, positively affected the differentiation of helper T cells, and inhibited regulatory T cell differentiation through the protein kinase B (AKT)/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, ultimately exerting an immune boosting function. Overall, our findings highlight therapeutic strategies to alleviate CTX-induced immunosuppression in a clinical setting.

Interplay between traditional Chinese medicine polysaccharides and gut microbiota: The elusive "polysaccharides-bond-bacteria-enzyme" equation

Polysaccharides are one of the most important components of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and have been extensively studied for their immunomodulatory properties. The functions and effects of TCM polysaccharides are closely related to the gut microbiota, making the study of their interaction a hot topic in the field of TCM metabolism. This review follows two main inquiries: first, how the gut microbiota breaks down TCM polysaccharides to produce bioactive metabolites; and second, how TCM polysaccharides reshape the gut microbiota as a carbon source. Understanding the interaction mechanism involves a challenging equation of the structural association of TCM polysaccharides with the metabolic activities of the microbiota. This review has meticulously searched, partially organized literature spanning the past decade, that delves into the interaction mechanism between TCM polysaccharides and gut microbiota. It also gives an overview of the complex factors of the elusive "polysaccharides-bond-bacteria-enzyme" equation: the complexity of polysaccharide structures, the diversity of glycosidic bond types, the communal nature of metabolizing microbiota, the enzymes involved in functional degradation by microbiota, and the hierarchical roles of polysaccharide utilization locus and gram-positive PULs. Finally, this review aims to facilitate discussion among peers in the field of TCM microbiota and offers prospects for research in related fields, paving the way for pharmacological studies on TCM polysaccharides and gut microbiota therapeutics, and providing a reference point for further clinical research.

Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides ameliorate nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolism regulation in an aged laying hen model

Polysaccharides extracted from Hericium erinaceus (HEP) exhibit hepatoprotective activity in the alleviation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, the mechanisms underlying whether and how HEP regulation of the gut microbiota to alleviate liver-associated metabolic disorders are not well understood. This study used an aged laying hen model to explore the mechanisms through which HEP alleviates NAFLD, with a focus on regulatory function of HEP in the gut microbiome. The results showed that HEP ameliorated hepatic damage and metabolic disorders by improving intestinal barrier function and shaping the gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolic profiles. HEP increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and certain tryptophan metabolites, including indole-3-carboxylic acid, kynurenic acid, and tryptamine in the cecum. These metabolites upregulated the expression of ZO-1 and Occludin by activating the AhR and restoring the intestinal barrier integrity. The increased intestinal barrier functions decreased LPS transferring from the intestine to the liver, inhibited hepatic LPS/TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway activation, and reduced hepatic inflammatory response and apoptosis. Fecal microbiota transplantation experiments further confirmed that the hepatoprotective effect is likely mediated by HEP-altered gut microbiota and their metabolites. Overall, dietary HEP could ameliorate the hepatic damage and metabolic disorders of NAFLD through regulating the "gut-liver" axis.

Tolypocladium sinense Mycelium Polysaccharide Alleviates Obesity, Lipid Metabolism Disorder, and Inflammation Caused by High Fat Diet via Improving Intestinal Barrier and Modulating Gut Microbiota

SCOPE

Tolypocladium sinense is a fungus isolated from Cordyceps. Cordyceps has some medicinal value and is also a daily health care product. This study explores the preventive effects of T. sinense mycelium polysaccharide (TSMP) on high-fat diet-induced obesity and chronic inflammation in mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Here, the study establishes an obese mouse model induced by high-fat diet. In this study, the mice are administered TSMP daily basis to evaluate its effect on alleviating obesity. The results show that TSMP can significantly inhibit obesity and alleviate dyslipidemia by regulating the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes such as liver kinase B1 (LKB1), phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (pAMPK), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR) in the liver. TSMP can increase the protein expression of zona occludens-1 (ZO-1), Occludin, and Claudin-1 in the colon, improve the intestinal barrier dysfunction, and reduce the level of serum LPS, thereby reducing the inflammatory response. 16S rDNA sequencing shows that TSMP alters the intestinal microbiota by increasing the relative abundance of Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, and Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, while decreasing the relative abundance of Faecalibaculum.

CONCLUSION

The findings show that TSMP can inhibit obesity and alleviates obesity-related lipid metabolism disorders, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress by modulating the gut microbiota and improving intestinal barrier.

Hormetic Nutrition and Redox Regulation in Gut-Brain Axis Disorders

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of hormetic nutrition for enhancing stress resilience and overall human health have received much attention. Recently, the gut-brain axis has attracted prominent interest for preventing and therapeutically impacting neuropathologies and gastrointestinal diseases. Polyphenols and polyphenol-combined nanoparticles in synergy with probiotics have shown to improve gut bioavailability and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, thus inhibiting the oxidative stress, metabolic dysfunction and inflammation linked to gut dysbiosis and ultimately the onset and progression of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. In accordance with hormesis, polyphenols display biphasic dose-response effects by activating at a low dose the Nrf2 pathway resulting in the upregulation of antioxidant vitagenes, as in the case of heme oxygenase-1 upregulated by hidrox® or curcumin and sirtuin-1 activated by resveratrol to inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, microbiota dysfunction and neurotoxic damage. Importantly, modulation of the composition and function of the gut microbiota through polyphenols and/or probiotics enhances the abundance of beneficial bacteria and can prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders. Interestingly, dysregulation of the Nrf2 pathway in the gut and the brain can exacerbate selective susceptibility under neuroinflammatory conditions to CNS disorders due to the high vulnerability of vagal sensory neurons to oxidative stress. Herein, we aimed to discuss hormetic nutrients, including polyphenols and/or probiotics, targeting the Nrf2 pathway and vitagenes for the development of promising neuroprotective and therapeutic strategies to suppress oxidative stress, inflammation and microbiota deregulation, and consequently improve cognitive performance and brain health. In this review, we also explore interactions of the gut-brain axis based on sophisticated and cutting-edge technologies for novel anti-neuroinflammatory approaches and personalized nutritional therapies.

Enhanced Cellular Delivery of Tildipirosin by Xanthan Gum-Gelatin Composite Nanogels

Tildipirosin has no significant inhibitory effect on intracellular bacteria because of its poor membrane permeability. To this end, tildipirosin-loaded xanthan gum-gelatin composite nanogels were innovatively prepared to improve the cellular uptake efficiency. The formation of the nanogels via interactions between the positively charged gelatin and the negatively charged xanthan gum was confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared. The results indicate that the optimal tildipirosin composite nanogels possessed a 3D network structure and were shaped like a uniformly dispersed ellipse, and the particle size, PDI, and ζ potential were 229.4 ± 1.5 nm, 0.26 ± 0.04, and -33.2 ± 2.2 mV, respectively. Interestingly, the nanogels exhibited gelatinase-responsive characteristics, robust cellular uptake via clathrin-mediated endocytosis, and excellent sustained release. With those pharmaceutical properties provided by xanthan gum-gelatin composite nanogels, the anti-Staphylococcus aureus activity of tildipirosin was remarkably amplified. Further, tildipirosin composite nanogels demonstrated good biocompatibility and low in vivo and in vitro toxicities. Therefore, we concluded that tildipirosin-loaded xanthan gum-gelatin composite nanogels might be employed as a potentially effective gelatinase-responsive drug delivery for intracellular bacterial infection.

The role of polysaccharides in improving the functionality of zein coated nanocarriers: Implications for colloidal stability under environmental stresses

Zein has gained popularity over the past few years as an incredible food and bio-based materials. The potential functions and health benefits of zein microcapsules or micro-/nanoparticles in bioactive components delivery, structured emulsion, etc., have received great attention. However, the development has been limited by colloidal destabilization, especially when thermal processing is involved. There is a recent trend in developing zein-polysaccharide complexes (ZPCs), which has tremendously improved the performance of zein-based colloidal carrier systems or emulsions. Increasing our understanding of zein interactions and their contribution to the structure of various macromolecules can help us to develop novel biomaterials that can be used in food, agriculture, biomedicine, and cosmetics. In addition, these nanocarriers are suitable for the encapsulation and delivery of bioactive compounds which have positive perspective in food industry. Therefore, this article aimed to review recent advances in the ZPCs that can be applied to functional or health-promoting foods, with a focus on the characteristics of different ZPCs, factors and mechanisms affecting the stability (especially thermal stability) of these complexes, and their application in food industry as a carrier for BCs. Further, the stability of ZPCs based emulsions under processing and physiological environments, as well some typical effective methods are introduced. Also, the principal challenges and prospects were enumerated and discussed.

Potential therapeutic target for polysaccharide inhibition of colon cancer progression

In recent years, colon cancer has become one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, posing a great threat to human health. Studies have shown that natural polysaccharides have rich biological activities and medicinal value, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxidation, and immune-enhancing effects, especially with potential anti-colon cancer mechanisms. Natural polysaccharides can not only protect and enhance the homeostasis of the intestinal environment but also exert a direct inhibition effect on cancer cells, making it a promising strategy for treating colon cancer. Preliminary clinical experiments have demonstrated that oral administration of low and high doses of citrus pectin polysaccharides can reduce tumor volume in mice by 38% (p < 0.02) and 70% (p < 0.001), respectively. These results are encouraging. However, there are relatively few clinical studies on the effectiveness of polysaccharide therapy for colon cancer, and ensuring the effective bioavailability of polysaccharides in the body remains a challenge. In this article, we elucidate the impact of the physicochemical factors of polysaccharides on their anticancer effects and then reveal the anti-tumor effects and mechanisms of natural polysaccharides on colon cancer. Finally, we emphasize the challenges of using polysaccharides in the treatment of colon cancer and discuss future applications.

Bacterial, short-chain fatty acid and gas profiles of partially hydrolyzed guar gum in vitro fermentation by human fecal microbiota

Carbohydrates with different structures have metabolic differences in the human body, as well as individual differences. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of bacterial, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and gas profiles of partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) on the fecal microbiota of 41 Chinese individuals by simulated fermentation in vitro. Results showed that PHGG stimulated the growth of Bifidobacterium and Faecalibacterium, inhibited the growth of Escherichia-Shigella, Klebsiella, and Dorea, and induced the production of fermentation gases (CO2, and H2) and SCFAs (acetic acid, butyric acid). Furthermore, Bifidobacterium was significantly increased in the young female and the old male-originated samples, while Klebsiella was significantly decreased in the old female ones after PHGG intervention, and there were also certain differences in gases and SCFAs among different population samples. These findings indicate that PHGG can modulate gut microbiota and metabolism well, whereas its use varies in different populations.

Investigating the effects of chitosan/ tragacanth gum/ polyvinyl alcohol composite coating incorporated with cinnamon essential oil nanoemulsion on safety and quality features of chicken breast fillets during storage in the refrigerator

The present study investigated the effects of composite coatings made of chitosan (CS), tragacanth gum (TG), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) containing cinnamon essential oil (CEO) on the shelf-life of refrigerated chicken breast fillets. The samples were treated with different coating dispersions, and coded as: T1 (distilled water as control), T2 (blank composite coating), and T3 (composite coating containing CEO). Results showed that incorporating CEO into CS/TG/PVA coatings could significantly increase the quality of chicken fillets. The obtained results showed that after 21 days, the total microbial population of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), psychrotrophic and mesophilic bacteria in T3 samples was less than T1 and T2 samples. In addition, the highest antioxidant activity (48.04 %) and total phenolic content (TPC) values (2.458 mg gallic acid /g), the best sensory characteristics and the lowest pH (5.73), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) (21.89 mg N/100 g), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (1.678 mg malondialdehyde equivalent/kg) and percentage of cooking loss (30 %) were related to T3. Results disclosed that this composite coating is a promising technology to improve the shelf life of chicken fillets during storage.

The Protective Effect of Auricularia cornea var. Li. Polysaccharide on Alcoholic Liver Disease and Its Effect on Intestinal Microbiota

This study's objective was to examine the protective effect and mechanism of a novel polysaccharide (AYP) from Auricularia cornea var. Li. on alcoholic liver disease in mice. AYP was extracted from the fruiting bodies of Auricularia cornea var. Li. by enzymatic extraction and purified by DEAE-52 and Sephacryl S-400. Structural features were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography, ion exchange chromatography and Fourier-transform infrared analysis. Additionally, alcoholic liver disease (ALD) mice were established to explore the hepatoprotective activity of AYP (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/d). Here, our results showed that AYP presented high purity with a molecular weight of 4.64 × 105 Da. AYP was composed of galacturonic acid, galactose, glucose, arabinose, mannose, xylose, rhamnose, ribos, glucuronic acid and fucose (molar ratio: 39.5:32.9:23.6:18.3:6.5:5.8:5.8:3.3:2:1.1). Notably, AYP remarkably reduced liver function impairment (alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC)), nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) of the liver and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione (gGSH)) in mice with ALD. Meanwhile, the serum level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were reduced in ALD mice treated by AYP. Furthermore, the AYPH group was the most effective and was therefore chosen to further investigate its effect on the intestinal microbiota (bacteria and fungi) of ALD mice. Based on 16s rRNA and ITS-1 sequencing data, AYP influenced the homeostasis of intestinal microbiota to mitigate the damage of ALD mice, possibly by raising the abundance of favorable microbiota (Muribaculaceae, Lachnospiraceae and Kazachstania) and diminishing the abundance of detrimental microbiota (Lactobacillus, Mortierella and Candida). This discovery opens new possibilities for investigating physiological activity in A. cornea var. Li. and provides theoretical references for natural liver-protecting medication research.

Modulating the gut microbiota is involved in the effect of low-molecular-weight Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide on immune function

Low molecular weight (6.5 kDa) Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide (GP) exhibits good immunomodulatory activity, however, the mechanism underlying GP-mediated regulation of immunity and gut microbiota remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to reveal the mechanisms underlying GP-mediated regulation of immunity and gut microbiota using cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppressed and intestinal mucosal injury models. GP reversed CTX-induced intestinal structural damage and increased the number of goblet cells, CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocytes, and mucin content, particularly by maintaining the balance of helper T lymphocyte 1/helper T lymphocyte 2 (Th1/Th2). Moreover, GP alleviated immunosuppression by down-regulating extracellular regulated protein kinases/p38/nuclear factor kappa-Bp50 pathways and increasing short-chain fatty acids level and secretion of cytokines, including interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-2, IL-10, IL-22, and transforming growth factor-β3 and immunoglobulin (Ig) M, IgG and secretory immunoglobulin A. GP treatment increased the total species and diversity of the gut microbiota. Microbiota analysis showed that GP promoted the proliferation of beneficial bacteria, including Muribaculaceae_unclassified, Alistipes, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Ligilactobacillus, and Clostridia_vadinBB60_group, and reduced the abundance of Proteobacteria and CTX-derived bacteria (Clostridiales_unclassified, Candidatus_Arthromitus, Firmicutes_unclassified, and Clostridium). The studies of fecal microbiota transplantation and the pseudo-aseptic model conformed that the gut microbiota is crucial in GP-mediated immunity regulation. GP shows great potential as an immune enhancer and a natural medicine for treating intestinal inflammatory diseases.

The Effect of Mushroom Dietary Fiber on the Gut Microbiota and Related Health Benefits: A Review

Mushroom dietary fiber is a type of bioactive macromolecule derived from the mycelia, fruiting bodies, or sclerotia of edible or medicinal fungi. The use of mushroom dietary fiber as a prebiotic has recently gained significant attention for providing health benefits to the host by promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms; therefore, mushroom dietary fiber has promising prospects for application in the functional food industry and in drug development. This review summarizes methods for the preparation and modification of mushroom dietary fiber, its degradation and metabolism in the intestine, its impact on the gut microbiota community, and the generation of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs); this review also systematically summarizes the beneficial effects of mushroom dietary fiber on host health. Overall, this review aims to provide theoretical guidance and a fresh perspective for the prebiotic application of mushroom dietary fiber in the development of new functional foods and drugs.

Immune Enhancement of Clam Peptides on Immunosuppressed Mice Induced by Hydrocortisone

Clam peptides, marine-derived biological peptides, have been broadly investigated and applied as health foods, among which immunomodulation is one of their biological activities that cannot be ignored in vivo. In this study, we concentrated on exploring the effects of Ruditapes philippinarum peptides (RPPs) on immunomodulation and the balance of intestinal microbiota in hydrocortisone (HC)-induced immunosuppressed mice. The results revealed that RPPs could increase the thymus and spleen indices and number of white blood cells, promote the secretion level of cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, and INF-γ), repair the morphology of the spleen and thymus, and enhance the proliferation of T-lymphocyte subsets in immunosuppressed mice. Moreover, RPPs improved the abundance of beneficial bacteria and preserved the ecological equilibrium of the gut microbiota. In conclusion, RPPs have significant immunomodulatory effects on immunosuppressed mice and may be developed as immunomodulators or immune adjuvants in functional foods and drugs; they are also beneficial to the utilization of the high value of marine shellfish.

Hericium erinaceus, in combination with natural flavonoid/alkaloid and B3/B8 vitamins, can improve inflammatory burden in Inflammatory bowel diseases tissue: an ex vivo study

Hericium erinaceus, berberine, and quercetin are effective in experimental colitis. It is unknown whether they can ameliorate inflammatory bowel diseases in humans. This ex vivo study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of a nutraceutical compound of HBQ-Complex^® (H. erinaceus, berberine, and quercetin), biotin, and niacin in inflammatory bowel disease patients. Tissue specimens were obtained either from Normal-Appearing Mucosa (NAM) or from Inflamed Mucosa (IM) in 20 patients with inflammatory bowel disease. mRNA and protein expression of COX-2, IL-10, and TNF-α were determined in NAM and IM biopsy samples (T0). IM samples were then incubated in HBQ-Complex^® (with the addition of niacin and biotin), and COX-2, IL-10, and TNF-α tissue levels were evaluated at 120 minutes (T1) and 180 minutes (T2). Incubation with this compound resulted in a progressive decrease in gene and protein COX-2 and TNF-α expression at T1/T2 in the IM. IL-10 showed an opposite trend, with a progressive increase of mRNA and protein expression over the same time window. HBQ-Complex^® (with the addition of niacin and biotin) decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines at the mRNA and protein levels in IBD tissue. On the contrary, mRNA and protein expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 showed a progressive increase.

Hericium erinaceus, a medicinal fungus with a centuries-old history: Evidence in gastrointestinal diseases

Hericium erinaceus is an edible and medicinal mushroom commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Several studies have highlighted its therapeutic potential for gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. In addition, some components of this mushroom appear to possess strong antineoplastic capabilities against gastric and colorectal cancer. This review aims to analyse all available evidence on the digestive therapeutic potential of this fungus as well as the possible underlying molecular mechanisms.

The mechanism of action of safflower total flavonoids in the treatment of endometritis caused by incomplete abortion based on network pharmacology and 16S rDNA sequencing

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Safflower is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating gynaecological diseases. However, its material basis and mechanism of action in the treatment of endometritis induced by incomplete abortion are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to reveal the material basis and mechanism of action of safflower in the treatment of endometritis induced by incomplete abortion through comprehensive methods, including network pharmacology and 16S rDNA sequencing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Network pharmacology and molecular docking methods were used to screen the main active components and potential mechanisms of action of safflower in the treatment of endometritis induced by incomplete abortion in rats. A rat model of endometrial inflammation by incomplete abortion was established. The rats were treated with safflower total flavonoids (STF) based on forecasting results, serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were analysed, and immunohistochemistry, Western blots, and 16S rDNA sequencing were performed to investigate the effects of the active ingredient and the treatment mechanism.

RESULTS

The network pharmacology prediction results showed 20 active components with 260 targets in safflower, 1007 targets related to endometritis caused by incomplete abortion, and 114 drug-disease intersecting targets, including TNF, IL6, TP53, AKT1, JUN, VEGFA, CASP3 and other core targets, PI3K/AKT, MAPK and other signalling pathways may be closely related to incomplete abortion leading to endometritis. The animal experiment results showed that STF could significantly repair uterine damage and reduce the amount of bleeding. Compared with the model group, STF significantly down-regulated the levels of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β, NO, TNF-α) and the expression of JNK, ASK1, Bax, caspase3, and caspase11 proteins. At the same time, the levels of anti-inflammatory factors (TGF-β and PGE2) and the protein expression of ERα, PI3K, AKT, and Bcl2 were up-regulated. Significant differences in the intestinal flora were seen between the normal group and the model group, and the intestinal flora of the rats was closer to the normal group after the administration of STF.

CONCLUSIONS

The characteristics of STF used in the treatment of endometritis induced by incomplete abortion were multi-targeted and involved multiple pathways. The mechanism may be related to the activation of the ERα/PI3K/AKT signalling pathway by regulating the composition and ratio of the gut microbiota.

Hericium erinaceus in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Bench to Bedside and Beyond, How Far from the Shoreline?

A growing number of studies is focusing on the pharmacology and feasibility of bioactive compounds as a novel valuable approach to target a variety of human diseases related to neurological degeneration. Among the group of the so-called medicinal mushrooms (MMs), Hericium erinaceus has become one of the most promising candidates. In fact, some of the bioactive compounds extracted from H. erinaceus have been shown to recover, or at least ameliorate, a wide range of pathological brain conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, depression, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injury. In a large body of in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies on the central nervous system (CNS), the effects of erinacines have been correlated with a significant increase in the production of neurotrophic factors. Despite the promising outcome of preclinical investigations, only a limited number of clinical trials have been carried out so far in different neurological conditions. In this survey, we summarized the current state of knowledge on H. erinaceus dietary supplementation and its therapeutic potential in clinical settings. The bulk collected evidence underlies the urgent need to carry out further/wider clinical trials to prove the safety and efficacy of H. erinaceus supplementation, offering significant neuroprotective applications in brain pathologies.

Excision of mesenteric lymph nodes alters gut microbiota and impairs social dominance in adult mice

INTRODUCTION

Mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) are central in immune anatomy. MLNs are associated with the composition of gut microbiota, affecting the central system and immune system. Gut microbiota was found to differ among individuals of different social hierarchies. Nowadays, excision of MLNs is more frequently involved in gastrointestinal surgery; however, the potential side effects of excision of MLNs on social dominance are still unknown.

METHODS

MLNs were removed from male mice (7-8 weeks old). Four weeks after MLN removal, social dominance test was performed to investigate social dominance; hippocampal and serum interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were investigated; and histopathology was used to evaluate local inflammation of the ileum. The composition of the gut microbiota was then examined to understand the possible mechanism, and finally intraperitoneal injection of IL-10 was used to validate the effect of IL-10 on social dominance.

RESULTS

There was a decrease in social dominance in the operation group compared to the control group, as well as a decrease in serum and hippocampal IL-10 levels, but no difference in serum and hippocampal IL-1β and TNF-α levels, and no local inflammation of the ileum after MLN removal. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that the relative abundance of the class Clostridia was decreased in the operation group. This decrease was positively associated with serum IL-10 levels. Furthermore, intraperitoneal injection of IL-10 in a subset of mice increased social dominance.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that MLNs contributed to maintaining social dominance, which might be associated with reduced IL-10 and the imbalance of specific flora in gut microbiota.

Modulating effects of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides on the immune response by regulating gut microbiota in cyclophosphamide-treated mice

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiota (GM) is recognized as a significant contributor to the immune system. In the present study, the effects of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides (HEP) on immunoregulation and GM in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-treated mice were investigated to elucidate the attenuate of immunosuppression by modulating GM.

RESULTS

The results revealed that HEP significantly improved the body weight and immune organ index in immunodeficient mice (P < 0.05). They significantly increased operational taxonomic units (OTUs) (P < 0.05), adjusted the α and β diversity of the GM, and the bacterial community structure was more similar to that of control group. Taxonomic composition analysis found that HEP increased the abundance of Alistipse, uncultured_bacterium_f_Muribaculaceae, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiracea, uncultured_bacterium_f_Ruminococcaceae and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014, and decreased Lactobacillus, Bacteroides, and Alloprevotella, suggesting that HEP can improve the GM structure and inhibit CTX-induced GM dysregulation. Moreover, HEP increased short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria, recovered SCFA levels, alleviated immunosuppression caused by CTX, enhanced the serum immune cytokine factors, and upregulated TLR4/NF-κB pathway key proteins (TLR4, NF-κB p65) at mRNA and protein levels.

CONCLUSION

Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides effectively regulated GM and enhancement of intestinal immune function, so they have the potential to be developed as functional ingredients or foods to modulate immune responses. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Study of Hydroxypropyl β-Cyclodextrin and Puerarin Inclusion Complexes Encapsulated in Sodium Alginate-Grafted 2-Acrylamido-2-Methyl-1-Propane Sulfonic Acid Hydrogels for Oral Controlled Drug Delivery

Puerarin has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunity enhancement, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, antitumor, and antimicrobial effects. However, due to its poor pharmacokinetic profile (low oral bioavailability, rapid systemic clearance, and short half-life) and physicochemical properties (e.g., low aqueous solubility and poor stability) its therapeutic efficacy is limited. The hydrophobic nature of puerarin makes it difficult to load into hydrogels. Hence, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-βCD)-puerarin inclusion complexes (PIC) were first prepared to enhance solubility and stability; then, they were incorporated into sodium alginate-grafted 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid (SA-g-AMPS) hydrogels for controlled drug release in order to increase bioavailability. The puerarin inclusion complexes and hydrogels were evaluated via FTIR, TGA, SEM, XRD, and DSC. Swelling ratio and drug release were both highest at pH 1.2 (36.38% swelling ratio and 86.17% drug release) versus pH 7.4 (27.50% swelling ratio and 73.25% drug release) after 48 h. The hydrogels exhibited high porosity (85%) and biodegradability (10% in 1 week in phosphate buffer saline). In addition, the in vitro antioxidative activity (DPPH (71%), ABTS (75%), and antibacterial activity (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) indicated the puerarin inclusion complex-loaded hydrogels had antioxidative and antibacterial capabilities. This study provides a basis for the successful encapsulation of hydrophobic drugs inside hydrogels for controlled drug release and other purposes.

Polysaccharide from Flammulina velutipes residues protects mice from Pb poisoning by activating Akt/GSK3β/Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway and modulating gut microbiota

Lead (Pb) can cause damages to the brain, liver, kidney, endocrine and other systems. Flammulina velutipes residues polysaccharide (FVRP) has been reported to exhibit anti-heavy metal toxicity on yeast, but its regulating mechanism is unclear. Therefore, the protective effect and the underlying mechanism of FVRP on Pb-intoxicated mice were investigated. The results showed that FVRP could reduce liver and kidney function indexes, serum inflammatory factor levels, and increase antioxidant enzyme activity of Pb-poisoned mice. FVRP also exhibited a protective effect on histopathological damages in organs of Pb-intoxicated mice. Furthermore, FVRP attenuated Pb-induced kidney injury by inhibiting apoptosis via activating the Akt/GSK3β/Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway. In addition, based on 16 s rRNA and ITS-2 sequencing data, FVRP regulated the imbalance of gut microbiota to alleviate the damage of Pb-poisoned mice by increasing the abundance of beneficial microbiota (Lachnospiraceae, Lactobacillaceae, Saccharomyces and Mycosphaerella) and decreasing the abundance of harmful microbiota (Muribaculaceae and Pleosporaceae). In conclusion, FVRP inhibited kidney injury in Pb-poisoned mice by inhibiting apoptosis via activating Akt/GSK3β/Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway, and regulating gut fungi and gut bacteria. This study not only revealed the role of gut fungi in Pb-toxicity, but also laid a theoretical foundation for FVRP as a natural drug against Pb-toxicity.

Fingerprint profiling and gut microbiota regulation of polysaccharides from Fritillaria species

Few studies reported the quality evaluation and gut microbiota regulation effect of polysaccharides from Fritillaria species. In this study, polysaccharides extracted from ten Fritillaria species were compared and distinguished through multi-levels evaluation strategy and data fusion. Furthermore, the gut microbiota regulation effect of polysaccharides among different species was analyzed and evaluated. The fingerprint profiling of IR, molecular weight distribution of polysaccharides, chromatogram of partially hydrolyzed polysaccharides (oligosaccharides) and completely hydrolyzed polysaccharides (monosaccharides) were similar, and no exclusive signals were observed. However, the signal strength of functional group, oligosaccharides abundance and monosaccharides proportion showed obvious differences in inter- and intra-species. Glucan may be the main component of polysaccharides in Fritillaria species, CIRR derived from CIR, PRZ, DEL, TAI, UNI possessed higher total polysaccharides content, polymerization degree, oligosaccharides abundance (DP 2-4), and glucose content than the others. Meanwhile, data fusion model was established for identification of affinis and multi-original species, the accuracy of which proved to be 100 %. In addition, Fritillaria polysaccharides could increase the bacterial community richness and diversity, regulate the gut microbiota composition and possessed potential therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal diseases and nervous system diseases.

Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide improves the microstructure, immune function, proliferation and reduces apoptosis of thymus and spleen tissue cells of immunosuppressed mice

In order to study the effect of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide (HEP) on the immune and antioxidation functions of immunosuppressed mice. The control group received distilled water orally and the model and experimental groups I, II, and III received 0, 80, 160, and 320 mg/kg HEP respectively for a fortnight after re-molding with cyoclphosphnalide (CTX). Compared with the control group, the secretion of IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ, the activity or content of T-AOC, T-SOD, and GSH-PX, and the expression of PCNA mRNA in the thymus and spleen were reduced in immunosuppressed mice (P < .05 or P < .01). Compared with immunosuppressed mice, the levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, and GSH-PX and the PCNA mRNA expression of spleen and thymus were increased (P < .05 or P < .01), and the microstructure were also obviously improved in the experimental group III. Overall, 320 mg/kg of HEP significantly improved the immune and antioxidant functions.

Synthesis and Evaluation of Rutin–Hydroxypropyl β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes Embedded in Xanthan Gum-Based (HPMC-g-AMPS) Hydrogels for Oral Controlled Drug Delivery

Oxidants play a significant role in causing oxidative stress in the body, which contributes to the development of diseases. Rutin—a powerful antioxidant—may be useful in the prevention and treatment of various diseases by scavenging oxidants and reducing oxidative stress. However, low solubility and oral bioavailability have restricted its use. Due to the hydrophobic nature of rutin, it cannot be easily loaded inside hydrogels. Therefore, first rutin inclusion complexes (RIC) with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-βCD) were prepared to improve its solubility, followed by incorporation into xanthan gum-based (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-grafted-2-acrylamido -2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid) hydrogels for controlled drug release in order to improve the bioavailability. Rutin inclusion complexes and hydrogels were validated by FTIR, XRD, SEM, TGA, and DSC. The highest swelling ratio and drug release occurred at pH 1.2 (28% swelling ratio and 70% drug release) versus pH 7.4 (22% swelling ratio, 65% drug release) after 48 h. Hydrogels showed high porosity (94%) and biodegradation (9% in 1 week in phosphate buffer saline). Moreover, in vitro antioxidative and antibacterial studies (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli) confirmed the antioxidative and antibacterial potential of the developed hydrogels.

Quantitative estimation of enzymatic released specific oligosaccharides from Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides using CE-LIF

Polysaccharides exhibit multiple pharmacological activities which are closely related to their structural features. Therefore, quantitatively quality control of polysaccharides based on their chemical characteristics is important for their application in biomedical and functional food sciences. However, polysaccharides are mixed macromolecular compounds that are difficult to isolate and lack standards, making them challenging to quantify directly. In this study, we proposed an improved saccharide mapping method based on the release of specific oligosaccharides for the assessment of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides from laboratory cultured and different regions of China. Briefly, a polysaccharide from H. erinaceus was digested by β-(1-3)-glucanase, and the released specific oligosaccharides were labeled with 8-aminopyrene-1,3,6-trisulfonic-acid (APTS) and separated by using micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) coupled with laser induced fluorescence (LIF), and quantitatively estimated. MEKC presented higher resolution compared to polysaccharide analysis using carbohydrate gel electrophoresis (PACE), and provided great peak capacity between oligosaccharides with polymerization degree of 2 (DP2) and polymerization degree of 6 (DP6) in a dextran ladder separation. The results of high performance size exclusion chromatography coupled with multi-angle laser light scattering and refractive index detector (HPSEC-MALLS-RI) showed that 12 h was sufficient for complete digestion of polysaccharides from H. erinaceus. Laminaritriose (DP3) was used as an internal standard for quantification of all the oligosaccharides. The calibration curve for DP3 showed a good linear regression (R ² > 0.9988). The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) values were 0.05 μg/mL and 0.2 μg/mL, respectively. The recovery for DP3 was 87.32 (±0.03)% in the three independent injections. To sum up, this proposed method is helpful for improving the quality control of polysaccharides from H. erinaceus as well as other materials.

A Comprehensive Review of Food Hydrogels: Principles, Formation Mechanisms, Microstructure, and Its Applications

Food hydrogels are effective materials of great interest to scientists because they are safe and beneficial to the environment. Hydrogels are widely used in the food industry due to their three-dimensional crosslinked networks. They have also attracted a considerable amount of attention because they can be used in many different ways in the food industry, for example, as fat replacers, target delivery vehicles, encapsulating agents, etc. Gels-particularly proteins and polysaccharides-have attracted the attention of food scientists due to their excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, nutritional properties, and edibility. Thus, this review is focused on the nutritional importance, microstructure, mechanical characteristics, and food hydrogel applications of gels. This review also focuses on the structural configuration of hydrogels, which implies future potential applications in the food industry. The findings of this review confirm the application of different plant- and animal-based polysaccharide and protein sources as gelling agents. Gel network structure is improved by incorporating polysaccharides for encapsulation of bioactive compounds. Different hydrogel-based formulations are widely used for the encapsulation of bioactive compounds, food texture perception, risk monitoring, and food packaging applications.

Gut microbiota profiling in aged dogs after feeding pet food contained Hericium erinaceus

Health concern of dogs is the most important issue for pet owners. People who have companied the dogs long-term provide the utmost cares for their well-being and healthy life. Recently, it was revealed that the population and types of gut microbiota affect the metabolism and immunity of the host. However, there is little information on the gut microbiome of dogs. Hericium erinaceus (H. erinaceus; HE) is one of the well-known medicinal mushrooms and has multiple bioactive components including polyphenol, β-glucan, polysaccharides, ergothioneine, hericerin, erinacines, etc. Here we tested a pet food that contained H. erinaceus for improvement in the gut microbiota environment of aged dogs. A total of 18 dogs, each 11 years old, were utilized. For sixteen weeks, the dogs were fed with 0.4 g of H. erinaceus (HE-L), or 0.8 g (HE-H), or without H. erinaceus (CON) per body weight (kg) with daily diets (n = 6 per group). Taxonomic analysis was performed using metagenomics to investigate the difference in the gut microbiome. Resulting from principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) to confirm the distance difference between the groups, there was a significant difference between HE-H and CON due to weighted Unique fraction metric (Unifrac) distance (p = 0.047), but HE-L did not have a statistical difference compared to that of CON. Additionally, the result of Linear discriminate analysis of effect size (LEfSe) showed that phylum Bacteroidetes in HE-H and its order Bacteroidales increased, compared to that of CON, Additionally, phylum Firmicutes in HE-H, and its genera (Streptococcus, Tyzzerella) were reduced. Furthermore, at the family level, Campylobacteraceae and its genus Campylobacter in HE-H was decreased compared to that of CON. Summarily, our data demonstrated that the intake of H. erinaceus can regulate the gut microbial community in aged dogs, and an adequate supply of HE on pet diets would possibly improve immunity and anti-obesity on gut-microbiota in dogs.

Physicochemical properties and bioactivity of polysaccharides from Isaria cicadae Miquel with different extraction processes: effects on gut microbiota and immune response in mice

The effect of different extraction processes on the physicochemical characterization, digestibility, antioxidant activity and prebiotic activity of Isaria cicadae Miquel (ICM) fruiting body polysaccharides was studied. Furthermore, the effect of ultrasound-assisted extraction of ICM (U-ICM) on gut microbiota, the intestinal barrier and immune response was deeply explored. This study found that ICMs showed high indigestibility in both α-amylase and artificial gastric juice, indicating that ICMs have the potential as dietary fiber. In contrast, U-ICM had the best antioxidant activity and prebiotic potential. Meanwhile, there was a structure-activity relationship between the antioxidant activity of ICMs and the content of uronic acid, arabinose and galactose. When healthy mice were fed U-ICM for 42 days, the relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, and Bacteroides were found to increase significantly, while that of Clostridium decreased significantly. Meanwhile, U-ICM significantly promotes the expression of tight junction protein and the production of cytokines, indicating that U-ICM had the function of enhancing the intestinal barrier and regulating the host immune response. In conclusion, U-ICM as dietary fiber has the potential to be developed as a gut health-promoting prebiotic component or functional food. This research provided a valuable resource for further exploring the structure-activity relationship and prebiotic activity of ICMs.

Three main metabolites from Wolfiporia cocos (F. A. Wolf) Ryvarden & Gilb regulate the gut microbiota in mice: A comparative study using microbiome-metabolomics

Wolfiporia cocos (F. A. Wolf) Ryvarden & Gilb, also known as Poria cocos is an ancient edible and medicinal mushroom that has been valued for thousands of years for its tranquilizing, diuretic, and spleen-enhancing properties. Because of the mushroom’s complex composition, its pharmacological effects have not been fully clarified. Therefore, to expand our knowledge of these effects from a pharmacological perspective and exploit potential medicinal value of fungal mushroom, we extracted three main metabolites from P. cocos, including water-soluble polysaccharides (PCX), water-insoluble polysaccharides (PCY), and triterpenoid saponins (PCZ) for intragastric injection into mice. These injections were made to explore the component’s effects on the mice’s gut microbiota and their metabolomics. The microbiota analysis showed that PCY had the strongest effect on regulating gut microbiota through altering its composition and increasing the number of Lactobacillus (p < 0.01). A total of 1,828 metabolites were detected using metabolomics methods, and the results showed that the three main active metabolites of P. cocos significantly changed the content of short-chain peptides in intestinal metabolites. In conclusion, our study further investigated the pharmacological functions of P. cocos, and revealed the differing effects of its three main metabolites on gut microbiota. The results suggested that PCY is a prominent prebiotic, and provided us with new insights into the potential development of fungal polysaccharides in Chinese traditional medicine.

Effect of High-Pressure Treatment on the Quality of a Hericium erinaceus: Millet Composite Beverage

Hericiumerinaceus-millet (HM) composite beverage was prepared by mixing Hericium erinaceus juice and millet juice and then subjected to high-pressure processing (HPP) of 300 MPa and 600 MPa at room temperature and thermal processing (TP) of 100°C for 3 min. The differences in pH, total soluble solids, amino acid nitrogen content, total colony numbers, sensory scores, and shelf life of HPP-treated and TP-treated samples stored at 4°C, 27°C, and 37°C for 80 days and the differences in volatile substances stored at 4°C and 27°C for 30 days were studied. The results showed that there was no significant difference in total soluble solids, amino acid nitrogen, and pH when comparing HPP- and TP-treated HM beverages. The order of HM beverages’ shelf life following different treatments was as follows: TP-treated >600 MPa HPP-treated >300 MPa HPP-treated. When stored at 4°C, the shelf life of the three treatments was 63, 52, and 39 days, respectively. Compared with TP-treated beverages, HPP-treated beverages better retained their ester flavor compounds, especially ethyl acetate. Moreover, the main volatile compounds in TP-treated beverages changed more during storage than those in HPP-treated beverages. Overall, HPP-treated beverages had advantages in terms of flavor over TP-treated beverages.

Edible Mushrooms as a Potential Component of Dietary Interventions for Major Depressive Disorder

Dietary interventions for people suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD) are an ongoing field of research. In this article, we present a comprehensive background for understanding the possibility of using edible medicinal mushrooms as an adjunctive treatment for MDD. We start with a brief history of MDD, its diagnosis, epidemiology and treatment, and the effects of diet on depression symptoms, followed by a review of neurobiological, behavioral, and clinical studies of medicinal mushrooms. We specifically highlight the results of preclinical and clinical studies on dietary supplementation with three selected mushroom species: Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus), Caterpillar mushroom (Cordyceps militaris), and Lingzhi/Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum). Preliminary small-sample clinical studies suggest that Lion’s mane can influence well-being of humans. In the case of Reishi, the results of clinical studies are equivocal, while in the case of Caterpillar Mushroom, such studies are underway. Edible mushrooms contain 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP), which is a direct precursor of serotonin—a neurotransmitter targeted in pharmacotherapy of MDD. Therefore, in light of the well-recognized role of stress as a pathogenic factor of MDD, we also describe the neurobiological mechanisms of the interaction between stress and serotonergic neurotransmission; and summarize the current state of knowledge on dietary supplementation with 5-HTP in MDD.

Digestive Characteristics of Hericium erinaceus Polysaccharides and Their Positive Effects on Fecal Microbiota of Male and Female Volunteers During in vitro Fermentation

Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides (HEPs) have attracted widespread attention in regulating gut microbiota (GM). To investigate digestibility and fermentation of HEPs and their effects on GM composition, three polysaccharide fractions, namely, HEP-30, HEP-50, and HEP-70, were fractionally precipitated with 30%, 50%, and 70% ethanol concentrations (v/v) from hot water-soluble extracts of Hericium erinaceus, respectively. Three kinds of prepared HEPs were structurally characterized and simulated gastrointestinal digestion, and their effects on human fecal microbiota fermentations of male and female and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production in vitro were clarified. Under digestive conditions simulating saliva, stomach, and small intestine, HEPs were not significantly influenced and safely reached the distal intestine. After 24 h of in vitro fermentation, the content of SCFAs was significantly enhanced (p < 0.05), and the retention rates of total and reducing sugars and pH value were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Thus, HEPs could be utilized by GM, especially HEP-50, and enhanced the relative abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria, e.g., Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, Blautia, Butyricicoccus, and Lactobacillus. Furthermore, HEPs reduced the relative abundances of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria, e.g., Escherichia-Shigella, Klebsiella, and Enterobacter. This study suggests that gradual ethanol precipitation is available for the preparation of polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus, and the extracted polysaccharide could be developed as functional foods with great development value.

Performance of a multi-compounds nutraceutical formulation in patients with symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD) is a recognized clinical condition characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, attributed to diverticula but without macroscopic signs of diverticulitis. There is no consensus about the management of these patients. Enteroflegin®, an association of natural active ingredients, could be effective in the treatment of those patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational study to evaluate the performances of Enteroflegin® in patients with SUDD. Patients were treated with Enteroflegin® 2 cp/day for 10 days per month for 6 months. Primary endpoint was the clinical remission rate, defined as the absence of any symptoms; secondary endpoints were the impact of the treatment on reduction of symptoms, on fecal calprotectin (FC) expression, and the prevention of acute diverticulitis.

RESULTS

Three hundred and fifty patients were retrospectively enrolled (183 males, median age 64 yrs, IQR 54-70). Enteroflegin® was effective in inducing remission in 9.34% and 17.64% of patients at 3 and 6 months respectively (p<0.001). Reduction of symptoms occurred in 92.3% and in 85.3% of patients at 3 and 6 months respectively (p<0.001), and symptoms' recurrence or worsening was recorded in only 1.71% of patients during the follow-up. FC expression dropped from 181,3 μg/g at baseline to 100,2 μg/g (p<0.001) and to 67,9 μg/g (p<0.001) at 3 and 6 months of follow-up respectively. No adverse event was recorded during the follow-up. Finally, acute diverticulitis occurred in just 2% of patients during the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Enteroflegin® seems to be an effective nutraceutical compound in obtaining remission and symptom relief in SUDD patients. Further randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm these preliminary data.

Effects of Shrimp Peptide Hydrolysate on Intestinal Microbiota Restoration and Immune Modulation in Cyclophosphamide-Treated Mice

The gut microbiota is important in regulating host metabolism, maintaining physiology, and protecting immune homeostasis. Gut microbiota dysbiosis affects the development of the gut microenvironment, as well as the onset of various external systemic diseases and metabolic syndromes. Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug that suppresses the host immune system, intestinal mucosa inflammation, and dysbiosis of the intestinal flora. Immunomodulators are necessary to enhance the immune system and prevent homeostasis disbalance and cytotoxicity caused by CTX. In this study, shrimp peptide hydrolysate (SPH) was evaluated for immunomodulation, intestinal integration, and microbiota in CTX-induced immunosuppressed mice. It was observed that SPH would significantly restore goblet cells and intestinal mucosa integrity, modulate the immune system, and increase relative expression of mRNA and tight-junction associated proteins (Occludin, Zo-1, Claudin-1, and Mucin-2). It also improved gut flora and restored the intestinal microbiota ecological balance by removing harmful microbes of various taxonomic groups. This would also increase the immune organs index, serum levels of cytokines (IFN-ϒ, IL1β, TNF-α, IL-6), and immunoglobin levels (IgA, IgM). The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes proportion was decreased in CTX-induced mice. Finally, SPH would be recommended as a functional food source with a modulatory effect not only on intestinal microbiota, but also as a potential health-promoting immune function regulator.

Moringa oleifera polysaccharide regulates colonic microbiota and immune repertoire in C57BL/6 mice

This study investigated the effects of Moringa oleifera polysaccharide (MOP) on serum immune indices, immune organ indices, colonic microflora and immune repertoire of mice. Forty male SPF C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into four groups and subjected to gavage of 0, 20, 40 and 60 mg/kg MOP for 28 days. Mice were sacrificed on the last day of the experiment and their thymus, spleen, blood and colon contents were collected for further detection. Our findings suggested that MOP could significantly increase the thymus index (P < 0.01) and spleen index (P < 0.05), and significantly decrease the levels of interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-α in mice (P < 0.05). And MOP could regulate the proportion of colonic microflora of mice, significantly increase the abundance of Muribaculaceae and significantly decrease the abundance values of Proteobacteria, Helicobacter, Stenotrophomonas, etc (P < 0.05). In addition, MOP could regulate the usage frequencies of TRBV15 (P = 0.06) and TRBV9 (P = 0.10) on the TCRα chain and 9 V-J pairs were found to have remarkable usage frequency changes. These results implied that MOP exerted positive effects on the immune performance and intestinal health of mice.

Comparison of water- and alkali-extracted polysaccharides from Fuzhuan brick tea and their immunomodulatory effects in vitro and in vivo

In the present study, the purpose is to compare the effect of water extraction and alkali-assisted extraction on the structural characteristics and immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharides from Fuzhuan brick tea (FBTPs). The results indicated that water-extracted FBTPs (W-FBTPs) and alkali-extracted FBTPs (A-FBTPs) had similar molecular weights but different monosaccharide compositions, of which A-FBTPs had a higher yield and uronic acid groups corresponding to galacturonic acid (GalA). Moreover, A-FBTPs had stronger ability to promote phagocytic capacity, acid phosphatase activity and nitric oxide (NO) secretion in macrophages in vitro. In the in vivo study, A-FBTPs exhibited a promising effect to adjust the immune imbalance by enhancing the body features, antioxidant activities, immune response and intestinal mucosal barrier in cytoxan (CTX)-induced immunosuppressive mice. Besides, A-FBTP supplementation effectively improved CTX-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, including promoting the abundance of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus) and short chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria (e.g., Lachnospiraceae, Prevotellaceae and Ruminococcaceae), along with reducing the growth of potentially pathogenic microbes (e.g., Desulfovibrionaceae and Helicobacter). These findings suggested that alkaline extraction might be a promising way to obtain high-quality acidic polysaccharides from Fuzhuan brick tea (FBT), and A-FBTPs could be developed as novel potential prebiotics and immunomodulators for further application in food formulations.

Ameliorative Effects of Peptides Derived from Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) on Immunomodulatory Function and Gut Microbiota Structure in Cyclophosphamide-Treated Mice

The intestinal flora is recognized as a significant contributor to the immune system. In this research, the protective effects of oyster peptides on immune regulation and intestinal microbiota were investigated in mice treated with cyclophosphamide. The results showed that oyster peptides restored the indexes of thymus, spleen and liver, stimulated cytokines secretion and promoted the relative mRNA levels of Th1/Th2 cytokines (IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-10). The mRNA levels of Occludin, Claudin-1, ZO-1, and Mucin-2 were up-regulated, and the NF-κB signaling pathway was also activated after oyster peptides administration. Furthermore, oyster peptides treatment reduced the proportion of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes, increased the relative abundance of Alistipes, Lactobacillus, Rikenell and the content of short-chain fatty acids, and reversed the composition of intestinal microflora similar to that of normal mice. In conclusion, oyster peptides effectively ameliorated cyclophosphamide-induced intestinal damage and modified gut microbiota structure in mice, and might be utilized as a beneficial ingredient in functional foods for immune regulation.

Synergistic effect of lotus seed resistant starch and short-chain fatty acids on mice fecal microbiota in vitro

This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effect of lotus seed resistant starch (LRS) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) on mice fecal bacterial flora and the contents of SCFAs in vitro. Following 24 h of fermentation, 16S rRNA analysis revealed several differences in the fecal microbiota community structure among primal bacteria (PB), LRS and different SCFAs combined with LRS groups (SCFAs-LRS). The LRS group increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Allobaculum, Clostridium, Bacteroides and Prevotella. Among the SCFAs-LRS group, AA-LRS increased the relative abundance of Prevotella, and Bacillus. PA-LRS increased abundance of Sphingomonas and the BA-LRS group significantly increased the relative abundance of Rhizobiales, Brucellaceae and Ochrobactrum. Meanwhile, propionic acid and BA productions significantly increased in the BA-LRS group. The SCFAs-LRS group elicited a beneficial effect on the fecal microbiota by increasing production of SCFAs. We highlight the fact that the combination of LRS and SCFA can increase the contents of SCFAs produced by mice fecal microbiota. In short, the combination of LRS and SCFA can influence intestinal flora by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and can serve as new prebiotics for promoting health and disease management.