Effect of monosaccharide composition and proportion on the bioactivity of polysaccharides: A review

A comparative investigation on the extraction-function relationship of polysaccharides derived from moringa oleifera seeds in terms of antioxidant capacity

Owing to the hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and other beneficial bioactivities of Moringa oleifera seeds (MOS), the antioxidant activities and physicochemical characteristics of deproteinized polysaccharides extracted using hot water (MSWP) and alkali (MSAP) from MOS were systematically studied. MSAP exhibited higher antioxidant activity than MSWP in vitro. Subsequently, the antioxidant capacity was evaluated after oral administration of MSAP in diabetic rats. The results demonstrated a statistically significant increase in serum antioxidant parameters. The two polysaccharides were then purified and characterized. The molecular weights of purified fractions MSAP3 and MSWP1 were 4.582 × 104 Da and 1.9058 × 105 Da, respectively; the content of uronic acid in MSAP3 was higher than that in MSWP1; and both compounds presented typical infrared spectral absorption peaks of polysaccharides. In conclusion, MSAP exhibits superior antioxidant properties that depend on its structural characteristics, and this study provides data support for further elucidation of the hypoglycemic mechanism of MSAP.

Effects of aging on the fine structure, chain conformation, and morphology of Chenpi polysaccharides

The aging process endows Chenpi (Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae) with unique value and efficacy. This study investigated the dynamic changes in the fine structure, chain conformation, and morphology of water-soluble polysaccharides from Chenpi over time. In the initial storage period of Chenpi (1 year), Chenpi polysaccharides (CP) exhibited a triple-helical structure, with chains entangled and aggregated into rough spherical conformations. Galacturonic acid (GalA, 47.78 mol%) was the predominant monosaccharide. As aging progressed, the homogalacturonan (HG) regions gradually degraded, leading to decreases in molecular sizes (particle size, Mw, Mn, and Rg), a reduction in the degree of esterification, and a weakening of the semicrystalline structure. Consequently, arabinose (Ara) emerged as the main monosaccharide (41.38 mol%). Neutral sugars continuously enriched the rhamnogalacturonan (RG-I) side chains, forming highly branched single molecules that curled into spherical shapes. By 15 years, CP were fully degraded, adopting a compact molecular conformation with the triple-helix structure disappearing and sizes uniformly below 20 nm. However, AFM results indicated aggregation phenomena in 15-year CP. Additionally, CP viscosity decreased while thermal stability improved, reflecting the natural structural transformation of CP. This study provides scientific evidence supporting the application of Chenpi in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Exploring the structure-activity relationship of Safflower polysaccharides: From the structural characteristics to biological function and therapeutic applications

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Safflower, the florets of Carthamus tinctorius L., is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine for promoting circulation and improving dysmenorrhea. Polysaccharides is one of the principal water-soluble components in Safflower, which recently endowed with a variety of biological activities, thus making them have important research significance in the field of ethnopharmacology.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review summarized the latest research progress on the preparation technology, structural characteristics, and pharmacological effects of Safflower polysaccharides. Moreover, by comparing the structural characteristic of Safflower polysaccharides, the potential structure-activity relationship of Safflower polysaccharides was also discussed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This article used keywords including Safflower polysaccharide, Carthamus tinctorius L polysaccharide, Safflower polysaccharide extraction and separation, Safflower polysaccharide structure, and Safflower polysaccharide anti-tumor effects to search for all relevant literature in PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, CNKI and other databases from the establishment of the database to July 2024.

RESULTS

Summarizing current research findings, seventeen homogeneous Safflower polysaccharides have been obtained. Their structural characteristics, including molecular weights, monosaccharide composition, sugar residue types, glycosidic bond configuration, and the linkage sequence, were initially researched. In terms of pharmacological activity, Safflower polysaccharides exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including immune regulation, anti-tumor effects, and antioxidant properties. Furthermore, the structural characteristics of Safflower polysaccharides significantly influence its biological activities, encompassing factors such as molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and degree of branching.

CONCLUSION

Safflower polysaccharides have seen significant advancements in recent years regarding preparation methods, structural characterization, and pharmacological studies. These achievements would provide a theoretical basis for the application of Safflower polysaccharide in the field of ethnopharmacology. While Safflower polysaccharides exhibit diverse biological activities and significant potential for development and utilization, further in-depth research is needed to enhance our understanding of their mechanisms of action and optimize their clinical applications.

Preparation methods, structural features, biological activities and potential applications of Ophiopogon japonicus polysaccharides: An updated review

Ophiopogon japonicus (O. japonicus) has a history of thousands of years as herbal medicine and nutritional food in China. Polysaccharides are one of the main bioactive components of O. japonicus. Various extraction methods and purification techniques have been employed to obtain O. japonicus polysaccharides (OJPs). Nevertheless, the structural characteristics of OJPs remain incompletely understood and require further investigation through the integration of advanced analytical techniques to uncover potential structure-activity relationships. Moreover, OJPs exhibit a variety of biological activities, such as regulating gut microbiota, providing cardiovascular protection, lowering blood glucose, and combating obesity. These diverse pharmacological effects make OJPs highly promising for widespread application in industries such as pharmaceuticals and food. Therefore, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of OJPs, covering their preparation methods, structural features, bioactivity, and structure-activity relationships. Here also emphasizes the significant promise of medicine and functional foods fields and advocating for their integration into clinical and industrial processes.

Water-soluble polysaccharides from Torreya grandis nuts: Structural characterization and anti-inflammatory activity

Torreya grandis (T. grandis) nuts are widely consumed as a functional food in China. In this study, we investigated the structural characteristics of T. grandis nuts polysaccharides and evaluated their potential biological functions with anti-inflammatory activities. Polysaccharides (TGP) were extracted from T. grandis nuts using water extraction and alcohol precipitation methods. Through a series of purification steps, three heteropolysaccharides (TGP-0a, TGP-2a, and TGP-3a) with distinct molecular weights, monosaccharide compositions, and surface morphologies were isolated. Their anti-inflammatory activities were screened, and TGP-0a was shown to be the most effective component. By combining NMR and methylation studies, TGP-0a was predominantly composed of linear α-1,4-glucan region and linear β-1,4-(gluco)mannan region. In cellular anti-inflammatory assays, TGP-0a significantly diminished the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, by lowering the levels of iNOS and COX-2, TGP-0a decreased the release of inflammatory mediators (NO and ROS), thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory response. In conclusion, T. grandis nut polysaccharides, particularly TGP-0a, show strong potential as natural anti-inflammatory agents for functional foods and pharmaceutical applications.

Bacterial exopolysaccharides: Characteristics and antioxidant mechanism

Bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS) are secondary metabolites of microorganisms which play important roles in adhesion, protection, biofilm formation, and as a source of nutrition. Compared with polysaccharides obtained from animal and plant species, bacterial polysaccharides have significant advantages in terms of production cost and large-scale production due to their abundant metabolic pathways and efficient polysaccharide production capacity. Most extracellular polysaccharides are water-soluble, and some are insoluble, such as bacterial cellulose. Some soluble bacterial EPS also have biological activities such as anticancer, antioxidant, antibacterial and immunomodulatory activities. These biological activities are mainly affected by the molecular weight, monosaccharide type, composition and structure of EPS. In recent years, bacterial EPS are considered as novel functional polysaccharides with important application prospects, especially in free radical scavenging and antioxidation. This review focuses on the characteristics of bacterial EPS, their ability to scavenge free radicals and their corresponding antioxidant mechanisms, and summarizes the relationship between different structures (such as monosaccharide composition, functional groups, molecular weight, etc.) and antioxidant activities. It provides a new idea for the development of more bioactive bacterial EPS antioxidants, points out a new direction for the commercial production of natural, safe and economical polysaccharide drugs and health products.

A self-fixing xanthan gum hydrogel membrane with ROS scavenging capability for the prevention of postoperative abdominal adhesion

Postoperative abdominal adhesions are a common complication of surgery and are caused by inflammation, tissue damage, and hypoxia. To address this issue, we prepared a SC-Xg hydrogel membrane by crosslinking xanthan gum (Xg) and sodium citrate (SC) through a dehydration condensation reaction with a crosslinking density of 39.4 %. Moreover, the mechanical performance of the SC-Xg hydrogel membrane could be enhanced by adjusting the concentration of SC. The 1.2-SC-Xg hydrogel membrane exhibited the highest stress resistance. The SC-Xg hydrogel membrane retains the excellent self-fixing ability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability of Xg while incorporating the antioxidant properties of SC. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the SC-Xg hydrogel membrane can completely cover irregular surgical sites and act as the most effective barrier against adhesions, fully exerting both physical and biological effects. Furthermore, molecular mechanism studies revealed that the hydrogel membrane primarily activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway in a concentration-dependent manner, enabling the SC-Xg hydrogel membrane to suppress postoperative oxidative stress reactions (ROS), reduce inflammation levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, reduce fibrosis, and effectively prevent the formation of abdominal adhesions. In conclusion, the SC-Xg hydrogel membrane represents a promising strategy for preventing postoperative abdominal adhesions.

Polysaccharide-Based Drug Carriers-A Patent Analysis

Polysaccharide-based carriers as biomaterials for drug delivery have been inspiring scientists for years due to their exceptional characteristics, such as nontoxicity, biocompatibility, and degradability, as they are able to protect pharmaceutically active molecules and provide their controlled/modified release. This review focuses on selected drug delivery systems based on natural polymers, namely fucoidan, pullulan, dextran, and pectin, with the aim of highlighting published patent documents. The information contained in patents is very important because it is usually not published in any other document and is much less discussed as the state of the art in the scientific literature. The Espacenet-European Patent Office database and the International Patent Classification were used for the research to highlight the specific search procedure. The presented analysis of the innovative state of the art includes an overview from the first patent applications to the latest granted patents in this field.

Polysaccharides from Lactarius volemus Fr. ameliorate high-fat and high-fructose diet induced metabolic disorders and intestinal barrier dysfunction

Our research was conducted to investigate the effects of Lactarius volemus Fr. polysaccharides (LVP) on metabolic disorders and intestinal barrier dysfunction in HFFD-induced obese mice. Our findings demonstrated that LVP supplementation significantly ameliorated hyperlipoidemia and hyperglycemia, insulin resistance and hepatic inflammation. Additionally, LVP alleviated hepatic steatosis and histological lesions, as well as hepatic function dysbiosis. The underlying mechanism may involve the regulation of hepatic insulin signaling transduction pathway such as IRS1/AKT pathway and the suppression of MAPKs signaling pathway. Furthermore, LVP intervention improved intestinal barrier function and reduced intestinal permeability by enhancing the expression of tight junction proteins and restoring intestinal microbiota composition. In summary, our results provided evidence that LVP exerted beneficial effects on HFFD-induced metabolic disorders along with restoration of intestinal barrier function and reduction in endotoxin levels. These outcomes are associated with maintenance of gut microbiota homeostasis and up-regulation of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs). Furthermore, butyric acid was found to restrict lipid accumulation in OA-induced HepG2 hepatocytes while strengthening intestinal barrier integrity in LPS-induced Caco-2 cells. Thus, polysaccharides LVP may serve as a potential prebiotic or health supplement in the prevention and treatment of obesity-related metabolic disorders.

Physical field-assisted deep eutectic solvent processing: A green and water-saving extraction and separation technology

Extraction of organic and bioactive compounds from plant materials with the traditional organic solvents aided by water or oil bath heating is not sustainable, because it consumes a lot of energy, time, water/oil, solvents, and results in lower yield. This review discusses deep eutectic solvent (DES) as a green solvent, physical field technology (PFT) as a water-saving and green technology, and how the coupling of PFT (ultrasound [US], microwave [MW], infrared [IR]) to DES will improve the yield and quality of protein, polysaccharides, polyphenols, pectin, and terpenoids extracted from plant materials. Ultrasonication increases DES extraction efficiency via cavitation dislodgement and pores creation. IR coupling to DES enhances the extraction yield of polyphenols and the antioxidant and antiradical activity. MW improves DES extraction yield, reduces energy consumption, operational cost, and compound degradation, and is inferred to be the greenest technology.

Microwave-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from Micromelum minutum leaves using citric acid monohydrate-glycerol based deep eutectic solvents and evaluation of biological activities

BACKGROUND

The extraction of polysaccharides using an acidic extraction media has been extensively reported, highlighting its effectiveness in yielding high-quality polysaccharides. A higher concentration of acidic solution could hydrolyze the structure of polysaccharide, while a low concentration reduces the extraction efficiency. Despite this challenges, deep eutectic solvents (DES) were introduced as an alternative extraction medium due to additional interactions such as inter and intra-molecular interactions, Van de Waals, hydrogen bond, and electrostatic interactions, which could improve the polysaccharide extraction efficiency and biological activities. Furthermore, the extraction conditions such as extraction medium and extraction parameters could affect the properties of polysaccharides as well as influence their structure-activity relationship for biological activities.

RESULTS

The result showed that the microwave-assisted extraction of Micromelum minutum leaf polysaccharide (MMLP) using DES as an extraction media (MMLP-DES) gave a higher yield (improvement of 101.20 %) than citric acid monohydrate (CAM) (MMLP-CAM) and required a lower percentage of microwave power (19.83 % less) and time (0.78 min less). The properties of MMLPs significantly differ based on their pH, molecular weight, viscosity, degree of esterification and monosaccharide molar ratio which influenced the biological activities. Compared to MMLP-CAM, MMLP-DES had a more branched and less linear structure. The bioactivities study revealed that MMLP-DES exhibited higher antioxidant and anti-α-amylase activities (i.e.

, DPPH

74.52 %, FRAP: 2.87 mM FeSO4 and α-amylase inhibition: 86.23 %) compared to MMLP-CAM (i.e.

, DPPH

49.33 %, FRAP: 1.49 mM FeSO4, and α-amylase inhibition: 81.76 %). The mechanism and structure-activity relationship of MMLPs on bioactivities were also hypothesized.

SIGNIFICANCE

Based on our previous study, the citric acid monohydrate-glycerol based DES as an extraction medium has enhanced the extraction yield of polysaccharides from M. minutum. This study highlights the DES combined with microwave-assisted extraction to improve the yield of MMLP and evaluate the biological activities compared to CAM as a classical solvent. In conclusion, the DES showed the advantages for extraction of polysaccharides with desired biological activities.

Structural characterization of noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) pectin and its inhibitory activity on pancreatic lipase

This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties and biological activities of noni pectin (NP) extracted using various solvents, three fractions of noni pectin were obtained using traditional chemical and deep eutectic solvents. NPs are composed of various ratios of galacturonic acid, arabinose, rhamnose, xylose, glucose, and galactose with different yields, molecular weights, esterification degrees (DE), and microstructures. Among the fractions, noni pectin extracted with Betaine-citric acid (BNP) exhibited higher molecular weight, degree for esterification and pancreatic lipase (PL) inhibitory activity than the other fractions. Enzyme kinetic analysis indicated that BNP inhibited PL via a noncompetitive mechanism. BNP significantly altered the secondary structure of PL and quenched PL fluorescence, suggesting a static quenching mechanism. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) further demonstrated that the binding of BNP to PL was spontaneous and driven by enthalpy, primarily mediated by hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. Molecular docking simulations also confirmed strong noncovalent interactions (hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces) between BNP and PL. This study validated the high efficiency of the deep eutectic solvent-extracted noni pectin fraction in pancreatic lipase inhibition.

A mini review of polysaccharides from Zanthoxylum bungeanum maxim: Their extraction, purification, structural characteristics, bioactivity and potential applications

Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (Z. bungeanum), commonly known as Sichuan pepper or Chinese prickly ash, is a deciduous shrub in the Rutaceae family, with a lengthy history of use as a food ingredient and traditional medicine in China. Z. bungeanum polysaccharides (ZBPs) represent one of the crucial bioactive components of Z. bungeanum, garnering global attention due to their potential medicinal value, culinary significance, and promising application prospects. The principal methods for extracting ZBPs are hot water extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, enzyme-assisted extraction and microbial fermentation extraction. However, the structural characteristics of ZBPs remain ambiguous, necessitating further exploration and elucidation of the structure-activity relationship using the advanced analytical techniques. In addition, ZBPs demonstrate diverse bioactivities, including antioxidant activity, neuroprotective effect, antibacterial activity, and the anti-fatigue effect, positioning them as promising candidates for various therapeutic and health-promoting applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the extraction, purification, structural characteristics, bioactivities, and potential applications of ZBPs, emphasizing the significant promise of ZBPs as valuable natural compounds with a range of bioactivities, supporting their further exploitation and application in various fields of industries and therapeutics.

A review of in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic polysaccharides: Extraction methods, physicochemical and structure-activity relationships

Nowadays, various plant polysaccharides have been successfully extracted which exhibited strong biological activities and might be useful for diabetes management. However, the effect of extraction methods, physicochemical and the structural-activity relationships of polysaccharides to exhibit antioxidants and antidiabetics were inadequate to explain their mechanism in action. The uses of advance extraction methods might be preferred to obtain higher antioxidants and antidiabetic activities of polysaccharides compared to conventional methods, but the determination of optimal extraction conditions might be crucial to preserve their structure and biological functions. Other than that, the physicochemical and structural properties of polysaccharides were closely related to their biological activities such as antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. Therefore, this review addressed the research gap of the influence of extraction methods, physicochemical and structural relationships of polysaccharides to biological activities, pointing out the challenges and limitations as well as future prospects to the current findings.

Structural characterization of an arabinogalactan rich fraction from Bauhinia forficata Link leaves and evaluation of its effect on THP-1 macrophages

Bauhinia forficata is a medicinal plant known as cow's paw, used for many purposes. Although there are studies that aimed to elucidate compounds from the plant leaves, there is no information about its polysaccharides. This study intended to obtain a polysaccharide rich fraction from its leaves, structurally characterize the water-soluble polysaccharides, as well as evaluate their effect on THP-1 cells. From the aqueous extract, followed by purification processes, a polysaccharide fraction (TCA-S) was obtained, constituted mainly of arabinose and galactose. Bidimensional NMR (13C/1H, HSQC) and methylation analyses identified type I and type II arabinogalactans, arabinan and starch as the major polysaccharides of the fraction. TCA-S was then submitted to starch removal process and renamed as TCA-Sα. TCA-Sα (2 to 500 μg/mL) was not cytotoxic to THP-1-cells and exhibited an immunostimulatory effect by increasing the secretion of nitric oxide and both pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Immunomodulatory effect on IL-6 secretion was observed when macrophages were treated with TCA-Sα at 500 μg/mL. Additionally, the ratio between the concentrations of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines produced by LPS-treated cells was higher than that produced by LPS plus TCA-Sα treated ones, suggesting that the polysaccharide fraction could modulate the LPS inflammation effects.

Physicochemical and processing properties and in vitro fecal fermentation characteristics of Prunus cerasifera Ehrhart polysaccharide

Prunus cerasifera Ehrhart fruit polysaccharide (PCP) was obtained after determining the optimal extraction conditions for complex enzyme-assisted hot buffer extraction based on single-factor experiments and response surface methodology, followed by characterization of its physicochemical, processing, rheological, and biological properties. PCP was a thermally stable carbohydrate with acidic functional groups and a molecular weight of 1398.69 kDa, exhibiting smooth, dense flake and honeycomb network microstructures. PCP had favorable hygroscopicity, moisturizing properties, water and oil-holding capacity, proemulsification capability, and in vitro antioxidant activity. The apparent viscosity of PCP in an aqueous system was dependent on concentration and temperature and was altered by the variety and amount of metal ions added; its aqueous solutions exhibited strong viscosity and hydrogel-forming tendencies at suitable concentrations, along with excellent hydrogel properties after gelation. Furthermore, PCP favored the growth of beneficial gut microbiota and associated microbes responsible for producing essential short-chain fatty acids. Overall, PCP displayed high potential as a multifunctional additive for applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Characterization of Exopolysaccharides from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum PC715 and Their Antibiofilm Activity Against Hafnia alvei

Exopolysaccharides (EPSs) secreted by lactic acid bacteria have the potential to enhance human health by showing various biological functions. This study investigated the biological role and antibiofilm properties of EPS715, a new neutral EPS produced by pickled vegetables originating from Lactobacillus plantarum PC715. The results indicate that EPS715 is primarily composed of rhamnose, glucose, and mannose. Its molecular weight (Mw) is 47.87 kDa, containing an α-glucoside linkage and an α-pyranose ring. It showed an amorphous morphology without a triple helix structure. Furthermore, EPS715 showed improved antioxidant activity. Specifically, its scavenging capacity of ABTS+ radicals, DPPH radicals, and the hydroxyl (·OH) reduction capacity at 5 mg/mL was 98.64 ± 2.70%, 97.37 ± 0.79%, and 1.64 ± 0.05%, respectively. Its maximal scavenging capacity was >40%, and the hydroxyl (·OH) radical scavenging ability was dose-dependent. Moreover, the biofilm of various pathogens including S. aureus, B. cereus, S. saprophyticus, Acinetobacter spp., and H. alvei was substantially dispersed and affected by EPS715, with a maximum inhibition rate of 78.17% for H. alvei. The possible mechanism by which EPS715 shows antibiofilm properties against the H. alvei may be attributed to its effects on the auto-aggregation, hydrophilic characteristics, and motility of Hafnia spp. Thus, EPS715 has significant antioxidant and antibiofilm characteristics that may hold substantial potential for applications in food and medicinal products.

Purification, structural characterization and immunomodulatory activity of a polysaccharide isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis stem-leaf

In our research, a novel polysaccharide (named SSP-3a) with uniform molecular weight was extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis stem-leaf. The structural analysis revealed that SSP-3a was an acidic polysaccharide with a heavy average molecular weight of 1.83 × 105 Da. By HPLC, the primary constituents of SSP-3a were mannose (11.60 %), glucuronic acid (42.99 %), glucose (23.43 %), and xylose (22.04 %). According to FT-IR and 1H NMR analysis, it was confirmed to be a β-configuration pyranose with a CO stretching vibrational peak. The immunomodulation results also showed that SSP-3a not only significantly promoted RAW264.7 cell proliferation and phagocytosis, but also stimulated the release of NO and cytokines. Furthermore, mechanistic studies suggested that SSP-3a had the ability to trigger MAPKs and NF-κB immunological signaling pathways via TLR4 receptors. The findings suggested that SSP-3a might be a beneficial active component for the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-lung cancer activities of low-molecular-weight and high-sulfate-content sulfated polysaccharides extracted from the edible fungus Poria cocos

Sulfated polysaccharides (SPSs) have excellent physicochemical properties, attracting research interest in the pharmaceutical industry. A previous study extracted SPS (named Suc40) from the edible fungus, Poria cocos and demonstrated that it exhibited anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. In this study, three fractions of Suc40, Suc40 F1, Suc40 F2, and Suc40 F3, with different molecular weights and sulfate contents were prepared through gel-filtration column chromatography. The molecular weights of F1, F2, and F3 were approximately 616.23, 82.57, and 6.21 kDa, respectively, and their sulfate content were 0.23, 1.65, and 1.90 mmol/g, respectively. The fractions' anti-inflammatory activities were determined by assessing their ability to suppress inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Suc40 F2 and Suc40 F3 suppressed interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production by 60 % and 35 %, respectively. Suc40 F2 and Suc40 F3 suppressed protein kinase B (AKT)/p38 and p38 signaling, which resulted in anti-inflammatory effects. The fractions' anti-lung cancer activity was evaluated by assessing their H1975 cell proliferation inhibition. Suc40 F3 at a concentration of 800 μg/ml exhibited maximal cell proliferation inhibition. The low molecular weight and high sulfate content of Suc40 F3 were associated with its enhanced anti-inflammatory and anti-lung cancer activities.

Comprehensive evaluation of Flammulina velutipes residues polysaccharide based on in vitro digestion and human fecal fermentation

Flammulina velutipes residues (FVR) are the waste culture medium derived from the collection of Flammulina velutipes fruiting bodies, with an annual output that remains largely unexplored. The characteristics of digestion and fermentation of Flammulina velutipes residues polysaccharide (FVRP) are still relatively unknown. This study investigated the structure of the gut microbiota through 16 s rDNA gene sequencing and analyzed changes in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content via targeted metabolome analysis. The aim was to explore the prebiotic activity of FVRP based on a simulated digestion model combined with an in vitro anaerobic fermentation model. The results demonstrated that FVRP did not exhibit significant changes during in vitro digestion and fermentation but did enhance antioxidant activity. Furthermore, FVRP was found to rapidly reduce the pH value and increase SCFA production in the fermentation broth from lactic acid bacteria and human feces. Notably, FVRP altered the gut microbiota structure, significantly increasing the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidota. Thus, FVRP could be considered a promising prebiotic food and feed additive that promotes the generation of short-chain fatty acids by modulating gut microbiota.

Effects of ultrasonic degradation on physicochemical and antioxidant properties of Gleditsia sinensis seed polysaccharides

In this study, two degraded polysaccharides from Gleditsia sinensis seed were obtained under ultrasonic power treatments of 300 and 450 W. The physicochemical properties, structural characteristics, and antioxidant activities of the degraded and undegraded polysaccharides were studied and compared. Ion exchange chromatography and methylation analysis showed that the polysaccharides had similar basic structural features and were composed of the same monosaccharide units before and after degradation, but the ultrasonic treatment increased the total monosaccharide content and changed the Mannose/Galactose value. Furthermore, with the increase in the ultrasonic power, the molecular weight and intrinsic viscosity of polysaccharides decreased, and the micromorphology became looser. The scavenging capacities for 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and hydroxyl free radicals and the reducing ability were significantly increased by the ultrasonic treatment. In conclusion, ultrasonic treatment may be an effective way to improve the antioxidant activities of polysaccharides from G. sinensis seed, and further studies on its antioxidant mechanism are still needed.

Enhancement of Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Corn Silk Polysaccharides After Selenium Modification

Objective

This study aimed to study the effect of selenium modification on the bioactivity of corn silk polysaccharides, particularly its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions.

Methods

HNO3-NaSeO3 was used to selenize degraded corn silk polysaccharides (DCSP). The structure and physicochemical properties of DCSP and selenized corn silk polysaccharides (Se-DCSP) were characterized by inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, nanometer, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The protective effects of DCSP and Se-DCSP on HK-2 cells damaged by nano-calcium oxalate and the changes of inflammatory factors were detected by laser confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy.

Results

The selenium content of DCSP and Se-DCSP were 19.5 and 1226.7 μg/g, respectively. Compared with DCSP, Se-DCSP showed significantly improved biological activity, including the scavenging ability of various free radicals (increased by about 2-3 times), the intracellular reactive oxygen content (decreased by about 1.5 times), and the mitochondrial membrane potential (decreased by about 2.5 times). Moreover, cell viability and morphological recovery ability were improved. Compared with DCSP, Se-DCSP significantly down-regulated HK-2 cell inflammatory factors MCP-1 (about 1.7 times), NLRP3, and NO (about 1.5 times).

Conclusion

The antioxidant activity and the ability to down-regulate the expression of inflammatory factors of Se-DCSP were significantly enhanced compared with DCSP, and Se-DCSP can better protect HK-2 cells from oxidative damage, indicating that Se-DCSP has a stronger potential ability to inhibit kidney stone formation.

Different microbiota modulation and metabolites generation of five dietary glycans during in vitro gut fermentation are determined by their monosaccharide profiles

Dietary oligo- and polysaccharides modulate gut microbiota and thus exert prebiotic activity, which is determined by their heterogeneous structure. To explore the correlations between monosaccharide profile and microbial community, simulated gut fermentation of different glycans, including arabinan (ArB), galactooligosaccharide (GOS), arabinogalactan (ArG), rhamnogalacturonan (RhG), and xyloglucan (XyG) that are characterized by typical sugar residues were performed. Results showed that RhG displayed high contents of galacturonic acid (344.79 mg/g), rhamnose (171.70 mg/g), and galactose (151.77 mg/g), and the degradation ratio of them after fermentation was 73.87 %, 84.96 %, and 87.11 %, respectively. Meanwhile, the relative abundance of glycan-degrading bacteria Bacteroides in the RhG was boosted from 4 h (4.97 %) to 48 h (36.45 %). Butyrate-generating bacteria Megasphaera (56.69 %) and Bifidobacterium (28.02 %) are dominant genera in the ArB, which generated the highest concentration of carbohydrate-metabolite (94.58 mmol/L) in terms of acetate, propionate, butyrate and valerate, followed by the ArG (87.36 mmol/L). However, ammonia generation of the ArG increased rapidly, representing the highest content of protein-metabolite (66.36 mmol/L) including ammonia, isobutyrate, and isovalerate. As compared, metabolites generated from protein and carbohydrates grow steadily at a low level during the XyG fermentation. Correlation analysis further indicated that Bacteroides was positively correlated with propionate (p < 0.001), galacturonic acid (p < 0.001), and rhamnose (p < 0.05), while Bifidobacterium has positive correlation with butyrate and arabinose (p < 0.01). Overall, monosaccharides composition in the different oligo- and polysaccharides induces distinct responses of the dominant microbiota and thus modulates the subsequent fermentation metabolites of carbohydrate and protein, promoting a deep understanding of the structure-fermentation relationship of dietary glycans.

Review of the recent advances in polysaccharides from Ficus carica: Extraction, purification, structural characteristics, bioactivities and potential applications

Ficus carica (F. carica), commonly referred to as the fig tree, has received considerable attention due to its delectable and nutritious fruits. F. carica polysaccharides (FPs) are one of the key bioactive constituents of F. carica, demonstrating various biological activities such as antioxidative, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects, among others. Nevertheless, the extraction and purification techniques for FPs still require innovations to address their structural characteristics in order to elucidate the intricate mechanisms affecting their biological activities. Given this, the current review systematically summarizes the recent advancements in FPs, covering extraction, purification, structural characteristics, bioactivities, structure-activity relationships (SARs), current applications, challenges and future prospects. The composition of FPs predominantly includes Glu, Gal, and Rha, with a broad molecular weight distribution (ranging from 21.9 kDa to 6890 kDa). The SARs analysis suggests that the bioactivities of FPs are closely linked to their monosaccharide composition, molecular weight, uronic acid content, and configuration characteristics, underscoring the significant role of FPs in driving the development of novel bioactive compounds in the health, food, and medical sectors. In conclusion, this review would contribute the valuable research insights and provide the updated information to foster the advancement of FPs for diverse therapeutic and industrial applications.

Shellfish polysaccharides: A comprehensive review of extraction, purification, structural characterization, and beneficial health effects

Global food systems are currently facing great challenges, such as food sources, food safety, and environmental crises. Alternative nutritional resources have been proposed as part of the solution to meeting future global food demand. In the natural resources, shellfish are the major component of global aquatic animals. Although most studies focus on the allergy, toxin, and contamination of shellfish, it is also a delicious food to the human diet rich in proteins, polysaccharides, minerals, and omega-3. Among the functional ingredients, shellfish polysaccharides possess nutritional and medicinal values that arouse the great interest of researchers. The selection of the extraction approach and the experimental condition are the key factors that influence the extraction efficiency of shellfish polysaccharides. Importantly, the purification of crude polysaccharides comprises the enrichment of shellfish polysaccharides and isolation of fractions, also resulting in various structural characteristics and physicochemical properties. Chemical modification is also an efficient method to further improve the biological activities of shellfish polysaccharides. This review summarizes the extraction, purification, structural characterization, and chemical modification methods for shellfish polysaccharides. Additionally, the beneficial health effects of shellfish polysaccharides are highlighted, with an emphasis on their potential mechanism. Finally, current challenges and perspectives on shellfish polysaccharides are also spotlighted.

Effect of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharides on gluten structure, in vitro digestion and shelf-life of fresh wet noodle

This study aimed to investigate the effects of raw Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharides (RPCPs) and "zhi" P. cyrtonema Hua polysaccharides (ZPCPs) on the gluten structure, in vitro digestion, and shelf life of fresh wet noodles (FWN). The results demonstrated that incorporating PCPs improved the cooking and sensory qualities of FWN. Moreover, the shelf life of FWN was extended by 6 days with 1.5 % RPCPs (w/w) compared with the control FWN. Furthermore, incorporating 1.5 % ZPCPs led to a 1.2- and 0.2-fold increase in the disulfide bond and α-helix content, respectively, compared with the control FWN. This resulted in enhanced gluten structure, improved springiness and viscidity, and reduced cooking loss by 14.47 %-52.19 %. The scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that the starch particles were entrapped by PCPs, leading to higher gelatinization temperature and lower setback value of FWN, thereby reducing the starch digestion ratio to 55.50 %. In summary, the findings suggested that FWN containing PCPs can extend shelf life, improve taste, and slow starch digestion staple.

Antibacterial activity of a polysaccharide isolated from litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) pericarp against Staphylococcus aureus and the mechanism investigation

The long-term use of antibiotics can cause drug resistance. Natural polysaccharides are a novel means of treating bacterial infections, and the development and utilization of litchi pericarp polysaccharide (LPPs) as a bacteriostatic active substance offer a new research direction for the high-value utilization of litchi by-products. This study revealed that LPPs inhibited Staphylococcus aureus more than Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella typhimurium, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations of 145, 205, 325, and 445 μg/mL, respectively. The inhibitory activity of LPPs was insignificant for Bacillus subtilis at 505 μg/mL. The assessment of antibacterial mechanisms revealed that LPPs influenced the growth, conductivity, protein, and nucleic acid, reducing sugar, respiratory chain dehydrogenase activity, bacterial lipid peroxidation, intracellular adenosine triphosphate, and extracellular alkaline phosphatase levels of S. aureus. Of note, LPPs could modify the cell wall integrity and cell membrane permeability of S. aureus, resulting in the leakage of intracellular large and small molecules, inhibition of cellular respiratory metabolism, and oxidative losses. These processes exhibited an inhibitory effect and made the bacterium nonfunctional, thereby affecting its growth and metabolism or causing cell death. These findings provide support and insights into the potential application of LPPs as a natural antimicrobial agent.

Effect of ultrasound assisted H2O2 degradation on longan polysaccharide: degradation kinetics, physicochemical properties and prebiotic activity

This study aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasound-assisted H2O2 (US/H2O2) reaction on degradation parameters and kinetics, physicochemical properties and prebiotic activity of longan polysaccharide (LP). Results showed that US/H2O2 had a synergistic effect on the degradation of LP, and its kinetic equation followed to the fist - order model. US/H2O2 degradation did not change the chemical and monosaccharide composition of LP but altered their ratio. Compared with LP, three degraded polysaccharides (DLPs) displayed lower molecular weight, particle size and viscosity, but higher solubility. SEM and AFM revealed that US/H2O2 degradation led to significant differences in the microstructure and solution conformation of LP. Moreover, LP and DLPs showed different proliferation effects on four lactobacilli and bifidobacteria strains, among which DLP-8 (degraded for 8 h) exhibited the strongest prebiotic activity. US/H2O2 could be effectively applied to the degradation of LP to improve its physicochemical properties and bioactivities.

Unraveling the web of defense: the crucial role of polysaccharides in immunity

The great potential of polysaccharides in immunological regulation has recently been highlighted in pharmacological and clinical studies. Polysaccharides can trigger immunostimulatory responses through molecular identification, intra- and intercellular communication via direct or indirect interactions with the immune system. Various immunostimulatory polysaccharides or their derivative compounds interacts at cellular level to boost the immune system, including arabinogalactans, fucoidans, mannans, xylans, galactans, hyaluronans, fructans, pectin and arabinogalactans, etc. These natural polysaccharides are derived from various plants, animals and microbes. A unique structural diversity has been identified in polysaccharides, while monosaccharides and glucosidic bonds mainly confer diverse biological activities. These natural polysaccharides improve antioxidant capacity, reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, strengthen the intestinal barrier, influence the composition of intestinal microbial populations and promote the synthesis of short-chain fatty acids. These natural polysaccharides are also known to reduce excessive inflammatory responses. It is crucial to develop polysaccharide-based immunomodulators that could be used to prevent or treat certain diseases. This review highlights the structural features, immunomodulatory properties, underlying immunomodulatory mechanisms of naturally occurring polysaccharides, and activities related to immune effects by elucidating a complex relationship between polysaccharides and immunity. In addition, the future of these molecules as potential immunomodulatory components that could transform pharmaceutical applications at clinical level will also be highlighted.

Recovery of Selenium-Enriched Polysaccharides from Cardamine violifolia Residues: Comparison on Structure and Antioxidant Activity by Different Extraction Methods

The residues from selenium-enriched Cardamine violifolia after the extraction of protein were still rich in polysaccharides. Thus, the recovery of selenium polysaccharides (SePSs) was compared using hot water extraction and ultrasonic-assisted extraction techniques. The yield, extraction rate, purity, specific energy consumption, and content of total and organic selenium from different SePS extracts were determined. The results indicated that at conditions of 250 W (ultrasonic power), 30 °C, and a liquid-to-material ratio of 30:1 extracted for 60 min, the yield of SePSs was 3.97 ± 0.07%, the extraction rate was 22.76 ± 0.40%, and the purity was 65.56 ± 0.35%, while the total and organic selenium content was 749.16 ± 6.91 mg/kg and 628.37 ± 5.93 mg/kg, respectively. Compared to traditional hot water extraction, ultrasonic-assisted extraction significantly improves efficiency, reduces energy use, and boosts both total and organic selenium content in the extract. Measurements of particle size, molecular weight, and monosaccharide composition, along with infrared and ultraviolet spectroscopy, revealed that ultrasonic-assisted extraction breaks down long-chain structures, decreases particle size, and changes monosaccharide composition in SePSs, leading to lower molecular weight and reduced dispersity. The unique structure of SePSs, which integrates selenium with polysaccharide groups, results in markedly improved antioxidant activity and reducing power, even at low concentrations, due to the synergistic effects of selenium and polysaccharides. This study establishes a basis for using SePSs in functional foods.

Characterization of Unfractionated Polysaccharides in Brown Seaweed by Methylation-GC-MS-Based Linkage Analysis

This study introduces a novel approach to analyze glycosidic linkages in unfractionated polysaccharides from alcohol-insoluble residues (AIRs) of five brown seaweed species. GC-MS analysis of partially methylated alditol acetates (PMAAs) enables monitoring and comparison of structural variations across different species, harvest years, and tissues with and without blanching treatments. The method detects a wide array of fucose linkages, highlighting the structural diversity in glycosidic linkages and sulfation position in fucose-containing sulfated polysaccharides. Additionally, this technique enhances cellulose quantitation, overcoming the limitations of traditional monosaccharide composition analysis that typically underestimates cellulose abundance due to incomplete hydrolysis of crystalline cellulose. The introduction of a weak methanolysis-sodium borodeuteride reduction pretreatment allows for the detection and quantitation of uronic acid linkages in alginates.

Differential effects of enzymatically modified Ougan (Citrus Suavissima Hort. ex Tanaka) peel pectins extracted with different methods on inhibiting the proliferation of Hela cells

Previous studies have shown that modified citrus pectin (MCP) is an anti-tumor material of food grade. In this study, two enzymatically modified Ougan (Citrus Suavissima Hort. ex Tanaka) peel pectins (EMP1 and EMP2, the ones extracted by alkali and enzymatic methods) were used to investigate their differential effects on viability and physiology of Hela cells. The results showed that EMP1 and EMP2 had 88.00 % and 81.01 % galacturonic acid, 21.31 % and 20.25 % esterification degree, 10,417 g/mol and 6416 g/mol molecular weight (Mw), 82.86 % and 50.62 % RG-I, and 8.91 % and 15.70 % HG, respectively. EMP2 had higher intensities of absorption peaks than EMP1. They were irregularly shaped, with more holes on EMP1 but more wrinkles on EMP2. Both could inhibit the growth, proliferation, migration, and invasion of HeLa cells in a concentration-dependent manner, with better efficiency in EMP2. Meanwhile, EMP2 was more efficient than EMP1 in blocking the cell cycle in S phase, resulting in apoptosis. In conclusion, the variations caused by extraction resulted in differences in anti-tumor activity of MCP and EMP2 with lower Mw and higher HG exhibited better anti-tumor effects. This study would provide an experimental basis and reference for the research and development of anti-tumor supplements from citrus pectin.

Caulerpa chemnitzia polysaccharide exerts immunomodulatory activity in macrophages by mediating the succinate/PHD2/HIF-1α/IL-1β pathway

Algal polysaccharide is an important food functional factor with diverse bioactive and low toxicity. Previous studies have confirmed Caulerpa chemnitzia polysaccharides (CRVP) have immunomodulatory activity, but the immunomodulatory mechanism of CRVP in macrophages has not been thoroughly explored yet. In our research, we found that CRVP has outstanding immunomodulatory activity in macrophages, which is reflected in promoting cell proliferation, upregulating cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) expression, and increasing NO and ROS levels. Additionally, the result of joint analysis of untargeted metabolomics showed metabolism played a major role in the immunomodulatory of CRVP and suggested succinic acid was a key metabolite. Further verification indicated that the accumulation of succinic acid in macrophages after administered with CRVP, induced the down-regulation of prolyl hydroxylase domain 2 (PHD2) and up-regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), thereby enhancing IL-1β expression. Together, the immunomodulatory activity of CRVP in macrophages via succinate/PHD2/HIF-1α/IL-1β pathway.

Chemical characterization and pharmacological properties of polysaccharides from Allium roseum leaves: In vitro and in vivo assays

Allium roseum is amongst the most important wild medicinal plants. It is known for its diverse biological properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial and antidiabetic activities. In this work, the polysaccharides (PARLs) were ultrasonically extracted from Allium roesum leaves then purified and analyzed by several techniques. Chemical composition and GC-MS analysis showed that the obtained polysaccharides were composed mainly of glucose (40.20 %), mannose (25.30 %), fructose (10.60 %) and galacturonic acid (15.11 %). Moreover, PARLs exhibited a potent antioxidant effect with higher capacities up to 69.61 % and 71.72 % for DPPH and ABTS free radicals, respectively. Furthermore, PARLs significantly modulated inflammatory response by reducing TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 pro-inflammatory mediators and promoting the anti-inflammatory IL-10 mediator in LPS stimulated THP-1 derived macrophages. The in-vivo tests proved that the extract was able to decrease carrageenan-induced rat paw swelling by around 68.15 % after 4 h of treatment. PARLs, significantly reduced the growth of U87 (glioblastoma) and IGROV-1 cancer cells with IC50 values of about 4.27 and 7.89 mg/mL respectively. This research clearly shows that Allium roseum polysaccharides can be used as natural antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

Comparative study on physicochemical properties and hypoglycemic activities of intracellular and extracellular polysaccharides from submerged fermentation of Morchella esculenta

The structural characteristic, physicochemical properties and structure-hypoglycemic activity relationship of intracellular (IPS) and extracellular (EPS) from submerged fermentation of Morchella esculenta were systematically compared and assessed. Both IPS and EPS were neutral, with a triple-helical conformation, and composed of galactose, glucose and mannose monosaccharides in different molar ratios. The molecular weight and particle size of IPS were higher than those of EPS. FTIR and SEM showed that the main functional group absorption peak intensity, glycosidic bond type and surface morphology of the two polysaccharides differed. Analysis of rheological and thermal properties revealed that the viscosity of IPS was higher than that of EPS, while thermal stability of EPS was greater than that of IPS. Hypoglycemic activity analysis in vitro showed that both IPS and EPS were non-competitive inhibitors of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. EPS showed strong digestive enzyme inhibitory activity due to its higher sulphate content and molar ratio of galactose, lower Mw and particle size. Meanwhile, with its higher Mw and apparent viscosity, IPS showed stronger glucose adsorption capacity and glucose diffusion retardation. These results indicate that IPS and EPS differed considerably in structure and physicochemical properties, which ultimately led to differences in hypoglycemic activity. These results not only suggested that IPS and EPS has the potential to be functional foods or hypoglycemic drugs, but also provided a new target for the prevention and treatment of diabetes with natural polysaccharides.

Various steaming durations alter digestion, absorption, and fermentation by human gut microbiota outcomes of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharides

Introduction

Different steaming durations dramatically alter the structure of Polygonatum cyrtonema polysaccharides (PCPs). This study aimed to compare characteristics of digestion, absorption, and fermentation by gut microbiota across four representative PCPs from different steaming durations (0, 4, 8, and 12 h), each with unique molecular weights and monosaccharide profiles.

Methods

Chemical composition of the four PCPs was analyzed. Digestibility was evaluated using an in vitro saliva-gastrointestinal digestion model. Absorption characteristics were assessed with a Caco-2 monolayer model, and impacts on gut microbiota composition and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels were analyzed using in vitro fermentation with human gut microbiota.

Results

Longer steaming durations altered the chemical profiles of PCPs, reducing carbohydrate content (84.87-49.58%) and increasing levels of uronic acid (13.99-19.61%), protein (1.07-5.43%), and polyphenols (0.05-2.75%). Four PCPs were unaffected by saliva digestion but showed enhanced gastrointestinal digestibility, with reducing sugar content rising from 4.06% (P0) to 38.5% (P12). The four PCPs showed varying absorption characteristics, with P0 having the highest permeability coefficient value of 9.59 × 10-8 cm/s. However, all PCPs exhibited poor permeability, favoring gut microbiota fermentation. The four PCPs altered gut microbiota composition and elevated SCFA production, but levels declined progressively with longer steaming durations. All PCPs significantly increased the abundance of Bacteroidota, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteriota, making them the dominant bacterial phyla. Additionally, all PCPs significantly increased the abundance of Bifidobacterium, Prevotella, and Faecalibacterium compared to the control group, which, along with Bacteroides, became the dominant microbiota. Increasing the steaming duration led to a reduction in Prevotella levels, with PCPs from raw rhizomes showing the highest relative abundance at 24.90%. PCPs from moderately steamed rhizomes (4 h) led to a significant rise in Faecalibacterium (7.73%) among four PCPs. P8 and P12, derived from extensively steamed rhizomes (≥8 h), exhibited similar gut microbiota compositions, with significantly higher relative abundances of Bacteroides (20.23-20.30%) and Bifidobacterium (21.05-21.51%) compared to P0 and P4.

Discussion

This research highlights the importance of adjusting steaming durations to maximize the probiotic potential of P. cyrtonema polysaccharides, enhancing their effectiveness in modulating gut microbiota and SCFA levels.

Optimization of enzyme-assisted microwave extraction, structural characterization, antioxidant activity and in vitro protective effect against H2O2-induced damage in HepG2 cells of polysaccharides from roots of Rubus crataegifolius Bunge

In this study, an enzyme-assisted microwave extraction process was obtained by response surface method of polysaccharide from roots of Rubus crataegifolius Bunge. The optimized extraction process was as follow: enzyme dosage 2 %, enzymatic time was 3.6 h, enzymatic pH 4.9, and microwave time 4.7 min, with the extraction yield of 9.07 %. Four homogeneous polysaccharides (RCP-1, RCP-3, RCP-4 and RCP-5) were purified through column chromatography. Four polysaccharides have the relative higher molecular weights of 1.70 × 106 Da, 5.56 × 106 Da, 4.97 × 106 Da, and 9.80 × 106 Da and mainly consisted of GluN, GluA, Glu, Gal and Arab. FT-IR and NMR spectral analysis confirmed that the purified polysaccharides were polypyranose containing α- and β-glycosidic bonds. RCP - 1 has a relative high crystallinity. Four purified polysaccharides contained triple helical conformations, and have good antioxidant activities. Among the purified polysaccharides, RCP - 1 was found to reduce the oxidative cell damage induced by H2O2 through increasing of cell viability, inhibition of AST and ALT levels, ROS production and cell apoptosis, increasing of the activities of antioxidative enzymes, as well as reduction of MDA content. Our findings would provide a foundation for purified polysaccharides efficient extraction and demonstrated that the polysaccharides from R. crataegifolius roots could be a promising hepatoprotective agent.

Extraction, purification, structural characterization, and bioactivities of the genus Rhodiola L. polysaccharides: A review

The genus Rhodiola L., an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine and Tibetan medicine in China, exhibits a broad spectrum of applications. This genus contains key compounds such as ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypoglycaemic, immune-enhancing, and anti-hypoxic properties. As a vital raw material, Rhodiola L. contributes to twenty-four kinds of Chinese patent medicines and 481 health food products in China, finding extensive application in the health food sector. Recently, polysaccharides have emerged as a focal point in natural product research, with applications spanning the medicine, food, and materials sectors. Despite this, a comprehensive and systematic review of polysaccharides from the genus Rhodiola L. polysaccharides (TGRPs) is warranted. This study undertakes a systematic review of both domestic and international literature, assessing the research advancements and chemical functional values of polysaccharides derived from Rhodiola rosea. It involves the isolation, purification, and identification of a variety of homogeneous polysaccharides, followed by a detailed analysis of their chemical structures, pharmacological activities, and molecular mechanisms, structure-activity relationship (SAR) of TGRPs. The discussion includes the influence of molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and glycosidic bonds on their biological activities, such as sulfation and carboxymethylation et al. Such analyses are crucial for deepening the understanding of Rhodiola rosea and for fostering the development and exploitation of TGRPs, offering a reference point for further investigations into TGRPs and their resource utilization.

A Review of Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharide: Preparations, Structures, Physicochemical Properties and Application

Ganoderma lucidum (GL) is a kind of edible fungus with various functions and a precious medicinal material with a long history. Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP) is one of the main bioactive substances in GL, with anti-tumor, anti-oxidation, anti-cancer, and other biological activities. GLP is closely related to human health, and the research on GLP is getting deeper. This paper reviewed the extraction and purification methods of GLP, the relationship between structure and activity, and the qualitative and quantitative methods. This review provides solutions for the analysis and application of GLP. At the same time, some new methods for extraction, purification and analysis of GLP, the relationship between advanced structures and activity, and future applications of and research into GLP were emphasized. As a kind of bioactive macromolecule, GLP has unique functional properties. Through the comprehensive summary of the extraction, purification, and analysis of GLP and its future prospects, we hope that this review can provide valuable reference for the further study of GLP.

Chemical modification of bacterial exopolysaccharides: Antioxidant properties and health potentials

In recent years, there has been a burgeoning interest in the utilization of microbial exopolysaccharides (EPS) because of the added advantage of their renewable, biocompatible, and biodegradable nature in addition to intended applications. The endowed properties of bacterial EPS make them valuable candidates for a wide array of industrial applications. Modification of native EPS is known to enhance various physico-chemical and functional properties. Various modifications such as physical, chemical, biological, and enzymatic modifications were practiced improving the bioactivity of EPS. This paper comprehensively aims to review the most recent chemical modification techniques employed to modify the physico-chemical and functional changes of bacterial EPS in comparison with the unmodified forms. Chemical modification entails strategic alterations to the structure and properties of EPS through various synthetic and semi-synthetic methodologies. Emphasis is given to the antioxidant potential and functional role of these EPS derivatives in human health. Antioxidant properties reveal a significant augmentation in activity compared to their native counterparts. Such enhancement holds a strong promise for potential benefits and therapeutic applications. Chemical derivatives of EPS with overwhelming functional benefits could surely encourage EPS application, particularly as potential hydrocolloids in industrial and biomedical contexts.

Structural characterization and human gut microbiota fermentation in vitro of a polysaccharide from Fucus vesiculosus

In this study, an acidic polysaccharide (FVP-7 A) was isolated from Fucus vesiculosus by DEAE-Sepharose™ fast flow. The chemical composition, glycosidic bonds and in vitro fecal fermentation characteristics of FVP-7 A were studied. Results shown that FVP-7 A was a homogenous polysaccharide with average molecular weight of 30.94 kDa. Combined with FT-IR, monosaccharide composition, methylation and NMR analysis, the glycosidic bonds of FVP-7 A mainly composed of →4)-β-D-Manp-(1→, →3)-α-L-Fucp-(1→, α-D-Manp-(1→, →3)-β-D-Manp-(1 → and →4,6)-α-D-Manp-(1→. The zeta potential and atomic force microscopy images indicated that FVP-7 A could exist stably as a single chain-like structure in dilute solution. After gut fermentation, FVP-7 A was utilized and promoted multiple short-chain fatty acids production, especially acetic acid, butyric acid and valeric acid. For prebiotics, FVP-7 A significantly increased the relative abundance of short-chain fatty acids producing bacteria such as Bacteroides, Lachnospira, Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, Oscillospira and Dialister, and inhiited the growth of the harmful bacteria Shigella. These results indicated that FVP-7 A could be used as a potential dietary supplement to improve intestinal health.

Physicochemical characterization and anti-angiogenesis activity of polysaccharides from Amauroderma rugosum, a medicinal and edible mushroom

Amauroderma rugosum (AR) is commonly recognized as a medicinal fungus, often used as an alternative to Ganoderma lucidum. There is a scarcity of comprehensive and in-depth research on its bioactive polysaccharides and their associated biological activities. Herein, we isolated the polysaccharide fractions extracted from AR (ARPs) and investigated their primary structure and anti-angiogenic activities, given that various diseases are associated with excessive angiogenesis. Four polysaccharide fractions including ARP-0, ARP-1, ARP-2, and ARP-5 were heteropolysaccharides with different molecular weights, monosaccharide compositions, and micromorphologies, highlighting their varying bioactive profiles. Treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells with these polysaccharide fractions showed that only ARP-5 inhibited cell proliferation after vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulation. Similarly, ARP-5 inhibited human umbilical vein endothelial cells migration, invasion, and tube formation upon VEGF (50 ng/mL) treatment. Moreover, compared with the insignificant effects of ARP-0, ARP-1, and ARP-2, ARP-5 impeded angiogenesis in zebrafish embryos. Additionally, ARP-5 downregulated the VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling pathway in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that ARP-5 exerts its anti-angiogenic activities by blocking the VEGF/VEGFR2-mediated angiogenesis signaling pathway. Taken together, the study findings shed light on the primary structure and bioactivity of ARPs.

Systematic Chemical Analysis of Crude Glycan Isolates from the Seven-Herb Decoction Quanzhenyiqitang with Anti-COPD Activity

The classical Chinese Medicine prescription, Quanzhenyiqitang (QZYQT), containing seven tonic herbs (Shudi, Dangshen, Maidong, Baizhu, Niuxi, Fuzi, and Wuweizi) is clinically used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Although there are studies on the pharmacological effects of QZYQT, little attention has been paid to its active carbohydrate ingredients. We performed a systematic chemical analysis of the crude glycan isolates from the seven-herb decoction (GI-QZYQT) after confirming its anti-COPD activity. GI-QZYQT could enhance lung function, reduce lung damage, and alleviate inflammatory response in mice with COPD. Moreover, two monosaccharides (fructose and glucose) and six oligosaccharides (sucrose, melibiose, 1-kestose, raffinose, mannotriose, and stachyose), accounting for 40.23 % of GI-QZYQT, were discovered using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-evaporative light-scattering detection. Inulin-type fructan with an average molecular weight of 2112 Da was identified using high-performance gel-permeation chromatography in combination with monosaccharide mapping analysis, accounting for 20.10 % of GI-QZYQT in mass. The comparison study showed that the identified monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, and the inulin-type fructan of GI-QZYQT were mainly derived from herbs of Shudi, Dangshen, Maidong, Baizhu, and Niuxi. These findings provide crucial information on the chemical composition of GI-QZYQT, which is vital for the in-depth understanding of its bioactivity, mechanism, and product development.

Monosaccharide composition analysis by 2D quantitative gsHSQCi

The physicochemical properties and biological activities of polysaccharides depend on their structures. Monosaccharide composition analysis is indispensable for the structural characterization of polysaccharides and is helpful in the quality control of polysaccharide preparation. Here, using a model mixture and tamarind seed polysaccharide as examples, we demonstrated that a quantitative 2D NMR method, gsHSQCi (three gradient-selective Heteronuclear Single Quantum Coherence spectra acquired with incremented repetition times, i = 1, 2, 3) can directly quantify a variety of monosaccharides in solution with adequate precision and accuracy, requiring no derivatization, postprocessing steps and column separation. Both anomeric and non-anomeric signals of monosaccharides can be utilized for content determination. More accurate quantification of fructose in a mixture containing nine monosaccharides is obtained, which is difficult to achieve by quantitative 1D 1HNMR and the common PMP-HPLC method (high-performance liquid chromatography through pre-column derivatization with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone) due to the peak overlapping and the poor derivatization efficiency, respectively. The results also revealed that Na[Fe(EDTA)] can serve as a proper relaxation-enhancing agent for saccharide samples to save experimental time. We expect that this approach can be applied as an alternative to analyzing the monosaccharide composition and be helpful in interpreting the structure of polysaccharides.

Food carbohydrates in the gut: structural diversity, microbial utilization, and analytical strategies

Carbohydrates, which are a vital dietary component, undergo digestion and gut fermentation through microbial enzymes to produce beneficial short-chain fatty acids. Certain carbohydrates selectively modulate the gut microbiota, impacting host health. Carbohydrate-active enzymes within the gut microbiota significantly contribute to carbohydrate utilization and microbial diversity. Despite their importance, the structural complexity of carbohydrates poses analytical challenges. However, recent advancements, notably, mass spectrometry, have allowed for their characterization and functional analysis. This review examines the intricate relationship between dietary carbohydrates and the gut microbiota, highlighting the crucial role of advanced analytical techniques in understanding their diversity and implications. These advancements provide valuable insights into carbohydrate bioactivity. Integrating high-throughput analysis with next-generation sequencing provides deeper insights into gut microbial interactions, potentially revealing which carbohydrate structures are beneficial for gut health.

Progress of plant-derived non-starch polysaccharides and their challenges and applications in future foods

The development of future food is devoted not only to obtaining a sustainable food supply but also to providing high-quality foods for humans. Plant-derived non-starch polysaccharides (PNPs) are widely available, biocompatible, and nontoxic and have been largely applied to the food industry owing to their mechanical properties and biological activities. PNPs are considered excellent biomaterials and food ingredients contributing to future food development. However, a comprehensive review of the potential applications of PNPs in future food has not been reported. This review summarized the physicochemical and biological activities of PNPs and then discussed the structure-activity relationships of PNPs. Latest studies of PNPs on future foods including cell-cultured meat, food for special medical purposes (FSMPs), and three-dimensional-printed foods were reviewed. The challenges and prospects of PNPs applied to future food were critically proposed. PNPs with strong thermal stability are considered good thickeners, emulsifiers, and gelatinizers that greatly improve the processing adaptability of foods. The mechanical properties of PNPs and decellularized plant-based PNPs make them desirable scaffolds for cultured meat manufacturing. In addition, the biological activities of PNPs exhibit multiple health-promoting effects; therefore, PNPs can act as food ingredients producing FSMP to promote human health. Three-dimensional printing technology enhances food structures and biological activities of functional foods, which is in favor of expanding the application scopes of PNPs in future food. PNPs are promising in future food manufacturing, and more efforts need to be made to realize their commercial applications.

Prebiotic characteristics of degraded polysaccharides from Acanthopanax senticosus polysaccharide on broilers gut microbiota based on in vitro digestion and fecal fermentation

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of low molecular weight Acanthopanax polysaccharides on simulated digestion, probiotics, and intestinal flora of broilers in vitro. The experiments were carried out by H2O2-Vc degradation of Acanthopanax polysaccharides, in vitro simulated digestion to evaluate the digestive performance of polysaccharides with different molecular weights, in vitro probiotic evaluation of the probiotic effect of polysaccharides on lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, in vitro anaerobic fermentation and high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA genes to study the impact of Acanthopanax polysaccharides on the intestinal flora of broilers, and the effect of Acanthopanax polysaccharides on the short-chain fatty acids of intestines were determined by GC-MS method. The results showed that the molecular weight of Acanthopanax polysaccharide (ASPS) was 9,543 Da, and the molecular weights of polysaccharides ASPS-1 and ASPS-2 were reduced to 4,288 Da and 3,822 Da after degradation, and the particle sizes, PDIs, and viscosities were also significantly decreased. ASPS-1 has anti-digestive properties and better in vitro probiotic properties. The addition of ASPS-1 regulates the structure of intestinal microorganisms by regulating fecalibacterium to produce short-chain fatty acids, promoting the colonization of beneficial bacteria such as fecalibacterium, paraprevotella and diminishing the prevalence of detrimental bacteria such as Fusobacteria. Interestingly the ASPS-1 group found higher levels of Paraprevotella, which degraded trypsin in the gut, reducing inflammation, acted as a gut protector, and was influential in increasing the levels of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, valeric acid, and total SCFAs in the fermented feces. Therefore, the degraded ASPS-1 can better regulate the structure of intestinal flora and promote the production of SCFAs, creating possibilities for its use as a potential prebiotic, which is conducive to the intestinal health of poultry.

Physicochemical Properties of Different Sulfated Polysaccharide Components from Laetiporus sulphureus and Their Anti-Proliferative Effects on MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells

Laetiporus sulphureus is an edible and medicinal mushroom widely used in folk medicine for treating cancer and gastric diseases. This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties of different sulfated polysaccharide (SPS) components (F1, F2, and F3) isolated from L. sulphureus and evaluate their activity against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell proliferation. Compared with F1 and F3, the results showed that F2 exhibited the most potent anti-proliferative activity on MDA-MB-231 cells, which could be attributed to the sulfate and protein contents, molecular weight, and monosaccharide composition. F2 inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation by blocking the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase but not triggering cell apoptosis. In addition, F2 also showed selective cytotoxicity on breast cancer cells. It modulated the expression of proteins involved in G0/G1 phase progression, cell cycle checkpoints, DNA replication, and the TGFβ signaling pathway in MDA-MB-231 cells. This study demonstrated that F2, the medium-molecular-weight SPS component of L. sulphureus, possessed the most potent inhibitory effect on MDA-MB-231 cell proliferation by arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. The main factors contributing to the differences in the potency of anti-breast cancer activity between F1, F2, and F3 could be the sulfate and protein contents, molecular weight, and monosaccharide composition of SPS.

Extraction, structural characterization, and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from three microalgae

Microalgal polysaccharides have received much attention due to their potential value in preventing and regulating oxidative damage. This study aims to reveal the mechanisms of regulating oxidative stress and the differences in the yield, structure, and effect of polysaccharides extracted from three microalgae: Golenkinia sp. polysaccharides (GPS), Chlorella sorokiniana polysaccharides (CPS), and Spirulina subsalsa polysaccharides (SPS). Using the same extraction method, GPS, CPS, and SPS were all heteropoly- saccharides composed of small molecular fraction: the monosaccharides mainly comprised galactose (Gal). Among the three, SPS had a higher proportion of small molecular fraction, and a higher proportion of Gal; thus it had the highest yield and antioxidant activity. GPS, CPS, and SPS all showed strong antioxidant activity in vitro, and showed strong ability to regulate oxidative stress, among which SPS was slightly higher. From the analysis of gene expression, the Nrf2-ARE signalling pathway was an important pathway for GPS, CPS, and SPS to regulate cellular oxidative stress. This study provides a theoretical foundation for further research on the utilization of microalgae polysaccharides and product development.

The Isolation, Structural Characterization and Anti-Inflammatory Potentials of Neutral Polysaccharides from the Roots of Isatis indigotica Fort

Polysaccharides have been assessed as a potential natural active component in Chinese herbal medicine with anti-inflammatory properties. However, the complex and indefinite structures of polysaccharides limit their applications. This study explains the structures and anti-inflammatory potentials of three neutral polysaccharides, RIP-A1 (Mw 1.8 × 104 Da), RIP-B1 (Mw 7.4 × 104 Da) and RIP-B2 (Mw 9.3 × 104 Da), which were isolated from the roots of Isatis indigotica Fort. with sequenced ultrafiltration membrane columns, DEAE-52 and Sephadex G-100. The planar structures and microstructures of RIP-A1, RIP-B1 and RIP-B2 were further determined by HPGPC, GC-MS, methylation analysis, FT-IR, SEM and AFM, in which the structure of RIP-A1 was elucidated in detail using 1D/2D NMR. The Raw 264.7 cells were used for the anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. The results showed that RIP-A1, RIP-B1 and RIP-B2 are all neutral polysaccharides, with RIP-A1 having the smallest Mw and the simplest monosaccharide composition of the three. RIP-A1 is mainly composed of Ara and Gal, except for a small quantity of Rha. Its main structure is covered with glycosidic linkages of T-α-Araf, 1,2-α-Rhap, 1,5-α-Araf, T-β-Galp, 1,2,4-α-Rhap, 1,3,5-α-Araf and 1,6-β-Galp with 0.33:0.12:1.02:0.09:0.45:11.41:10.23. RIP-A1 significantly inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines (NO, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, RIP-A1 could significantly inhibit the mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and L-1β. It could also activate IKK, p65 and IκBα (the components of the NF-κB signaling pathway). In conclusion, the above results show the structural characterization and anti-inflammatory potentials of RIP-A1 as an effective natural anti-inflammatory drug.