Chemical modifications of the (1-->3)-alpha-D-glucan from spores of Ganoderma lucidum and investigation of their physicochemical properties and immunological activity

A low-molecular-weight α-glucan from edible fungus Agaricus blazei Murrill activates macrophage TFEB-mediated antibacterial defense to combat implant-associated infection

Implant-associated infection (IAI) is a prevalent and potentially fatal complication of orthopaedic surgery. Boosting antibacterial immunity, particularly the macrophage-mediated response, presents a promising therapeutic approach for managing persistent infections. In this study, we successfully isolated and purified a homogeneous and neutral water-soluble polysaccharide, designated as AM-1, from the edible fungus Agaricus blazei Murrill. Structure analysis revealed that AM-1 (Mw = 3.87 kDa) was a low-molecular-weight glucan characterized by a primary chain of →4)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → and side chains that were linked at the O-6 and O-3 positions. In vivo assays showed that AM-1 effectively attenuated the progression of infection and mitigated infectious bone destruction in IAI mouse models. Mechanistically, AM-1 promotes intracellular autophagy-lysosomal biogenesis by inducing the nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB, finally enhancing the bactericidal capabilities and immune-modulatory functions of macrophages. These findings demonstrate that AM-1 significantly alleviates the progression of challenging IAIs as a presurgical immunoenhancer. Our research introduces a novel therapeutic strategy that employs natural polysaccharides to combat refractory infections.

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.

Research progress and future development potential of Flammulina velutipes polysaccharides in the preparation process, structure analysis, biology, and pharmacology: A review

In recent years, Flammulina velutipes (F. velutipes) has attracted consequential attention in various research fields due to its rich composition of proteins, vitamins, amino acids, polysaccharides, and polyphenols. F. velutipes polysaccharides (FVPs) are considered as key bioactive components of F. velutipes, demonstrating multiple physiological activities, including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Moreover, they offer health benefits such as antioxidant and anti-aging properties, which have exceptionally valuable clinical applications. Polysaccharides derived from different sources exhibit a wide range of biomedical functions and distinct biological activities. The varied biological functions of polysaccharides, coupled with their extensive application in functional foods and clinical applications, have prompted a heightened focus on polysaccharide research. Additionally, the extraction, deproteinization, and purification of FVPs are fundamental to investigate the structure and biological activities of polysaccharides. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of the extraction, deproteinization, purification, characterization, and structural elucidation of FVPs. Furthermore, the biological activities and mechanisms of FVPs have been further explored through in vivo and in vitro experiments. This review aims to provide a theoretical foundation and guide future research and development of FVPs.

Semisynthesis of new sulfated heterorhamnan derivatives obtained from green seaweed Gayralia brasiliensis and evaluation of their anticoagulant activity

Marine green algae produce sulfated polysaccharides with diverse structures and a wide range of biological activities. This study aimed to enhance the biotechnological potential of sulfated heterorhamnan (Gb1) from Gayralia brasiliensis by chemically modifying it for improved or new biological functions. Using controlled Smith Degradation (GBS) and O-alkylation with 3-chloropropylamine, we synthesized partially water-soluble amine derivatives. GBS modification increase sulfate groups (29.3 to 37.5 %) and α-l-rhamnose units (69.9 to 81.2 mol%), reducing xylose and glucose, compared to Gb1. The backbone featured predominantly 3- and 2-linked α-l-rhamnosyl and 2,3- linked α-l-rhamnosyl units as branching points. Infrared and NMR analyses confirmed the substitution of hydroxyl groups with aminoalkyl groups. The modified compounds, GBS-AHCs and GBS-AHK, exhibited altered anticoagulant properties. GBS-AHCs showed reduced effectiveness in the APTT assay, while GBS-AHK maintained a similar anticoagulant activity level to Gb1 and GBS. Increased nitrogen content and N-alkylation in GBS-AHCs compared to GBS-AHK may explain their structural differences. The chemical modification proposed did not enhance its anticoagulant activity, possibly due to the introduction of amino groups and a positive charge to the polymer. This characteristic presents new opportunities for investigating the potential of these polysaccharides in various biological applications, such as antimicrobial and antitumoral activities.

Recent advances in the biosynthesis of fungal glucan structural diversity

Glucans are the most abundant class of macromolecule polymers in fungi, which are commonly found in Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Fungal glucans are not only essential for cell integrity and function but also crucial for the immense industrial interest in high value applications. They present a variety of structural characteristics at the nanoscale due to the high regulation of genes and the involvement of stochastic processes in synthesis. However, although recent findings have demonstrated the genes of glucans synthesis are relatively conserved across diverse fungi, the formation and organization of diverse glucan structures is still unclear in fungi. Here, we summarize the structural features of fungal glucans and the recent developments in the mechanisms of glucans biosynthesis. Furthermore, we propose the engineering strategies of targeted glucan synthesis and point out the remaining challenges in the synthetic process. Understanding the synthesis process of diverse glucans is necessary for tailoring high value glucan towards specific applications. This engineering strategy contributes to enable the sustainable and efficient production of glucan diversity.

Structural variety of glucans from Ganoderma lucidum fruiting bodies

Ganoderma lucidum, widely used in traditional medicine, has several biological properties. Polysaccharides, mainly glucans, are known as one of its main bioactive compounds. Consequently, the achievement and chemical investigation of such molecules are of pharmaceutical interest. Herein, we obtained water-insoluble and water-soluble polysaccharides from G. lucidum by alkaline extraction. Fractionation process yielded three fractions (GLC-1, GLC-2, and GLC-3). All samples showed to be composed mainly of glucans. GLC-1 is a linear (1 → 3)-linked β-glucan; GLC-2 is a mixture of three different linear polysaccharides: (1 → 3)-β-glucan, (1 → 3)-α-glucan, and (1 → 4)-α-mannan; while GLC-3 is a branched β-glucan with a (1 → 4)-linked main chain, which is branched at O-3 or O-6 by (1 → 3)- or (1 → 6)-linked side chains. This research reports the variability of glucans in Ganoderma lucidum fruiting bodies and applicable methodologies to obtain such molecules. These polysaccharides can be further applied in biological studies aiming to investigate how their chemical differences may affect their biological properties.

Pharmacological Activities and Safety of Ganoderma lucidum Spores: A Systematic Review

Ganoderma lucidum is traditionally used to prevent and treat some diseases such as liver disorders, hypertension, insomnia, diabetes, and cancer. G. lucidum spore extracts are also reported to share similar bioactivities as extracts from its other parts. However, there is no systematic review that elucidates its pharmacological effect. Our aim is to comprehensively summarise current evidence of G. lucidum spore extracts to clarify its benefits to be applied in further studies. We searched five primary databases: PubMed, Virtual Health Library (VHL), Global Health Library (GHL), System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe (SIGLE), and Google Scholar on September 13, 2021. Articles were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. A manual search was applied to find more relevant articles. Ninety studies that reported the pharmacological effects and/or safety of G. lucidum spores were included in this review. The review found that G. lucidum spore extracts showed quite similar effects as other parts of this medicinal plant including anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects, and immunomodulation. G. lucidum sporoderm-broken extract demonstrated higher efficiency than unbroken spore extract. G. lucidum extracts also showed their effects on some genes responsible for the body's metabolism, which implied the benefits in metabolic diseases. The safety of G. lucidum should be investigated in depth as high doses of the extract could increase levels of cancer antigen (CA)72-4, despite no harmful effect shown on body organs. Generally, there is a lot of potential in the studies of compounds with pharmacological effects and new treatments. Sporoderm breaking technique could contribute to the production of extracts with more effective prevention and treatment of diseases. High doses of G. lucidum spore extract should be used with caution as there was a concern about the increase in CA.

The structure and in vitro antioxidant activity of carboxymethyl glucans

In this study, a degree substitution of 0.796 was obtained through the process of carboxymethylation (CMG). Carboxymethyl glucans with three different molecular weights (CMG-A, CMG-B and CMG-C) were obtained using membrane separation technology. Structural characterization and in vitro antioxidant activity were also evaluated. As per the outcomes of infrared spectroscopy spectroscopy and Nuclear magnetic resonance studies, CMG-A, CMG-B, CMG-C and contained carboxyl methyl groups. The substitution order of carboxymethylation branched-chain was as follows: 6δ > 4δ > 2δ. Atomic Force Microscope images obtained from the analysis of dilute aqueous solution (0.1 mg/mL) showed that some of the structures in CMG-A, CMG-B and CMG-C, were triple-helical species coexisting with larger aggregates and single chains. In vitro antioxidant experiment shown that the CMG-C had the best antioxidant property, the half-inhibitory concentration of hydroxyl radical scavenging, iron chelation and ABTS scavenging were 0.319, 0.168 and 1.344 mg/mL, respectively.

(1→3)-α-d-Glucooligosaccharides Increase the Killing Capacity of NK Cells against Selected Human Colon Cancer Cells

Despite the progress of medicine, colorectal cancer has occupied one of the highest positions in the rankings of cancer morbidity and mortality for many years. Thus, alternative methods of its treatment are sought. One of the newer therapeutic strategies is immunotherapy based on NK cells (natural killers), which are the body's first line of defense against cancer. The aim of the study was to verify the possibility of using (1→3)-α-d-glucooligosaccharides (GOSs) obtained via acid hydrolysis of (1→3)-α-d-glucan from the fruiting body of Laetiporus sulphureus to improve the anticancer effect of NK-92 cells, with proven clinical utility, against selected human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines LS180 and HT-29. The study revealed that the investigated oligosaccharides significantly enhanced the ability of NK-92 cells to eliminate the examined colon cancer cells, mostly by an increase in their cytotoxic activity. The most significant effect was observed in LS180 and HT-29 cells exposed to a two-times higher quantity of NK cells activated by 500 µg/mL GOS, wherein NK-92 killing properties increased for 20.5% (p < 0.001) and 24.8% (p < 0.001), respectively. The beneficial impact of (1→3)-α-d-glucooligosaccharides on the anticancer properties of NK-92 suggests their use in colon cancer immunotherapy as adjuvants; however, the obtained data require further investigation and confirmation.

The antioxidant effects of hedysarum polybotrys polysaccharide in extending lifespan and ameliorating aging-related diseases in Drosophila melanogaster

Hedysarum polybotrys polysaccharide (HPS) is one of the main active ingredients of Hedysarum with many health-beneficial properties, including antioxidant property, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor. However, the effect of HPS on anti-aging is still unclear. This study was to explore the protective function of HPS on aging and age-related diseases using Drosophila melanogaster. The results demonstrated that HPS supplementation promoted hatchability and prolonged lifespan by enhancing the antioxidative capacity. Administraction of HPS ameliorated age-related symptoms such as imbalanced intestinal homeostasis, sleep disturbances, and beta-amyloid (Aβ) induced Alzheimer's disease (AD) in flies, but did not modulate neurobehavioral deficits in the AD model of tauopathy and the Parkinson's disease (PD) model of Pink1 mutation. Overall, this study reveals that HPS has strong potential in the prevention of aging and age-related diseases, and provided a new candidate for the development of anti-aging drugs.

Biological properties of exopolysaccharides produced by Bacillus spp

There is currently a constant search for ecofriendly bioproducts, which could contribute to various biomedical applications. Among bioproducts, exopolysaccharides are prominent contemporary extracellular biopolymers that are produced by a great variety of bacterial species. These homo- or heteropolymers are composed of monomeric sugar units linked by glycosidic bonds, which are secreted to the external medium. Bacillus spp. are reported to be present in different ecosystems and produce exopolysaccharides with different biological properties such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral anti-inflammatory, among others. Since a great diversity of bacterial strains are able to produce exopolysaccharides, a great variation in the molecular composition is observed, which is indeed present in some of the chemical structures predicted until date. These molecular characteristics and their relations with different biological functions are discussed in order to visualize future applications in biomedical section.

Chemical Structure and Immune Activation of a Glucan From Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii

Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii is a traditional Chinese herb used to treat depression and coronary heart disease. Studies on its active components mainly focus on small molecular compounds such as asarone and other essential oil components, while the large molecular active components such as polysaccharides are ignored. In this study, we aimed to study the chemical structure and immune activation of polysaccharides from Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii. In this study, a polysaccharide (RATAPW) was isolated and purified by DEAE-52 cellulose and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography from alkali extraction polysaccharide of Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii. The average molecular weight of RATAPW was 2.51 × 10⁴ Da, and the total carbohydrate contents of RATAPW were 98.23 ± 0.29%. The monosaccharide composition, methylation, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis results displayed that the polysaccharide was α-1,4-glucan with short α-1,6 branches. Immunofluorescence assay and inhibitor neutralization assay indicated that RATAPW could promote the TNF-α production of RAW264.7 macrophage through the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) molecular signaling pathway. Treatment with 200 μg/ml of RATAPW enhanced a 38.77% rise in the proliferation rate of spleen lymphocytes. RATAPW also enhances ConA-induced T cells and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced B cell proliferation in a dose-dependent effect. Our study lays a foundation for the discovery of natural polysaccharide immune modulators or functional food from Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii.

Structure Characterization, Immunological Activity, and Mechanism of a Polysaccharide From the Rhizome of Menispermum dauricum DC

The purpose of this study was to investigate the structural characterization and immunological activity in vitro and in vivo of a polysaccharide from the rhizome of Menispermum dauricum. A new polysaccharide named MDP was isolated from the rhizome of Menispermum dauricum by hot water extraction, ethanol precipitation, anion-exchange, and gel-filtration chromatography. MDP was homogeneous and had a molecular weight of 6.16 ×103 Da, and it was an α-D-glucan containing a (1 → 6)-linked backbone, with a glucosyl residue at the C-3 position along the main chain. MDP exhibited immunological activity in vitro, which could significantly promote the proliferation and phagocytosis of RAW264.7 cells and the release of TNF-α and IL-6 factors. For immunological activity in vivo. MDP could significantly increase the thymus and spleen indices, enhance the macrophage function, increase the level of cytokine (IL-6 and TNF-α) and immunoglobulin IgM in the serum and regulate T lymphocyte subsets. Furthermore, MDP elevated the expression of the critical nodes in the TLR4-MyD88 signaling pathways in vivo. These results support the concept that MDP may exhibit immunological activity through TLR4-MyD88 signaling pathway in vivo.

A comprehensive review on mutan (a mixed linkage of α-1-3 and α-1-6 glucans) from bacterial sources

Mutan is an extracellular sticky polymer having α-1-3 and α-1-6 glycosidic linkages with a large diversity in molecular weights and structures depending on the source. These compounds are reported to be highly thermostable and also have potential physiochemical and biological applications. The main aim of this review is to provide an overview of glucosyltransferases and their role in mutan synthesis. The production strategies and structural properties of bacterial mutans are discussed with a goal to improve production efficiency. The physicochemical features, chemical modifications, potential industrial applications and future prospects are also discussed. According to data, mutan and its derivatives will play a larger role in medicinal sectors and as thermoplastics in the near future.Abbreviations: ABTS: 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid; BHI: Brain heart infusion broth; ¹³C (HSQC) NMR: Heteronuclear Single Quantum Coherence NMR; CBMs: Carbohydrate binding modules; DPPH: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl; FTIR: Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy; GC-MS: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; GPC: Gel permeation chromatography; Gtfs: Glucosyltransferases; ¹H (DQF-COSY): Double-quantum filtered correlation spectroscopy; HPAEC-PAD: High-performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection; HPLC: High performance liquid chromatography; HPSEC-RI: High-performance size exclusive chromatography coupled with refractive index; HPSEC-MALLS: High-performance size exclusive chromatography with multi-angle laser light scattering detection; MALDI-TOF: Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Time of Flight mass spectrometry; M_w: Weight-average molecular weight; MWD: Molecular weight distribution; NMR: Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; TEM: Transmission electron microscopy; THB: Todd Hewitt Broth; TTY: Tryticase tryptose yeast extract broth.

Fungal α-1,3-Glucan as a New Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern in the Insect Model Host Galleria mellonella

Recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by appropriate pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) is a key step in activating the host immune response. The role of a fungal PAMP is attributed to β-1,3-glucan. The role of α-1,3-glucan, another fungal cell wall polysaccharide, in modulating the host immune response is not clear. This work investigates the potential of α-1,3-glucan as a fungal PAMP by analyzing the humoral immune response of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella to Aspergillus niger α-1,3-glucan. We demonstrated that 57-kDa and 61-kDa hemolymph proteins, identified as β-1,3-glucan recognition proteins, bound to A. niger α-1,3-glucan. Other hemolymph proteins, i.e., apolipophorin I, apolipophorin II, prophenoloxidase, phenoloxidase activating factor, arylphorin, and serine protease, were also identified among α-1,3-glucan-interacting proteins. In response to α-1,3-glucan, a 4.5-fold and 3-fold increase in the gene expression of antifungal peptides galiomicin and gallerimycin was demonstrated, respectively. The significant increase in the level of five defense peptides, including galiomicin, corresponded well with the highest antifungal activity in hemolymph. Our results indicate that A. niger α-1,3-glucan is recognized by the insect immune system, and immune response is triggered by this cell wall component. Thus, the role of a fungal PAMP for α-1,3-glucan can be postulated.

Structure/function relationships of bean polysaccharides: A review

Beans are a rich source of high quality protein and oil, and have attracted increasing interest from both nutrition researchers and health-conscious consumers. This review aims to provide a foundation for the future research and development of bean polysaccharides, by summarizing the sources, structure, and functions of bioactive bean polysaccharides. Structure/function relationships are described, for biological activities, such as immunological, antioxidant and anti-diabetes. This will provide useful guidance for further optimization of polysaccharide structure and the development of bean polysaccharides as a novel functional material.

Polysaccharides with Antitumor Effect in Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review of Non-Clinical Studies

Purpose: To review the effects of polysaccharides and their proposed mechanisms of action in breast cancer experimental models. Data sources, selection, and extraction: Articles were selected by using PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Medline, assessed from 1 May 2019 to 1 July 2020. The systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (Prospero) under the number CRD42020169103. Results: Most of the studies explore algae polysaccharides (43.2%), followed by mushrooms (13.5%), plants (13.5%), fruits (10.8%), fungus (2.7%), bacteria, (2.7%), and sea animals (2.7%). A total of 8.1% investigated only in vitro models, 62.1% evaluated only in vivo models, and 29.7% evaluated in vitro and in vivo models. The mechanism of action involves apoptosis, inhibition of cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, and antimetastatic effects through multiple pathways. Conclusions: Findings included here support further investigations on the anti-tumor effect of polysaccharides. Some polysaccharides, such as fucoidan and β-glucans, deserve detailed and structured studies aiming at translational research on breast tumors, since they are already used in the clinical practice of other proposals of human health.

Structure and chain conformation of bioactive β-D-glucan purified from water extracts of Ganoderma lucidum unbroken spores

Two polysaccharide fractions (GLSB50 and GLSB70) with total sugar content of 82.07 wt% and 53.79 wt%, respectively, were obtained from the water extracts of unbroken Ganoderma lucidum spores by sequential ethanol precipitation treatment. Compared with GLSB70, GLSB50 exhibited better activity on stimulation of humoral immune responses in immunosuppressed mice. A novel β-D-glucan (GLSB50A-III-1) with weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1.93 × 105 g/mol was purified from GLSB50 through chromatography separation. The exponent α value of Mark-Houwink-Sakurada equation was calculated to be 0.13, indicating that GLSB50A-III-1 presented globular spheres conformation in aqueous solution. Structural analysis showed that GLSB50A-III-1 mainly consisted of (1 → 3), (1 → 4), (1 → 6)-linked β-d-glucose residues in the backbone, with two single β-D-Glcp attached at O-6 of β-(1 → 3) and β-(1 → 4)-linked residues separately as side chains. The repeat unit of GLSB50A-III-1 was deduced as follows.

A comprehensive review on α-D-Glucans: Structural and functional diversity, derivatization and bioapplications

Glucans are the most abundant natural polysaccharides across the living kingdom with tremendous biological activities. Now a days, α-D-glucans are gaining importance as a prebiotics, nutraceuticals, immunostimulants, antiproliferative agents and biodegradable polymers in pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors. A wide variety of bioresources including bacteria, fungi, lichens, algae, plants and animals produce α-D-glucans either as an exopolysaccharide (EPS) or a cell wall component or an energy storage polymer. The α-D-glucans exhibit great structural and functional diversity as the type of linkage and percentage of branching dictate the functional properties of glucans. Among the different linkages, bioactivities are greatly confined to the α-D-(1 → 3) linkages whereas starch and other polymers consisting of α-D-(1 → 4) (1 → 6) linkages are specific for food and pharmaceutical applications. However, the bioactivities of the α-D-(1 → 3) glucans in native form is limited mainly due to their hydrophobic nature. Hence several derivatization techniques have been developed to improve the bioavailability as well as bioactive features such as antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and antitumor properties. Though, several reports have presented about α-D-glucans, still there is an ambiguity in terms of their structure among different natural sources and moreover no comprehensive information was available on their derivatization techniques and application potential. Therefore, the present review summarizes distinct description on diverse sources, type of linkages, derivatization techniques as well as the application potential of the native and modified α-D-glucans.

Advances in the extraction, purification, structural-property relationships and bioactive molecular mechanism of Flammulina velutipes polysaccharides: A review

With the further research in recent years, Flammulina velutipes (F. velutipes), an edible mushroom, has great application value in many fields. As one of the main bioactive components in F. velutipes, polysaccharide has a series of functions such as anti-oxidation, immune regulation, anti-inflammation, liver protection, anti-tumor, anti-hyperlipidemia and so on. In this paper, the current progress in the extraction, purification, structural characteristics and bioactivities of F. velutipes polysaccharides (FVPs) were reviewed. Meanwhile, the structural-property relationships of FVPs were further discussed. In addition, based on in vitro and in vivo experiments, the possible mechanisms of bioactivities of FVPs were summarized. In order to understand FVPs more comprehensively, the application status and the future research work of FVPs were also introduced. Finally, we hope that our research can provide a reference for further research and development of FVPs.

Highly swellable hydrogel of regioselectively aminated (1→3)-α-d-glucan crosslinked with ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether

(1→3)-α-d-glucan synthesized by glucosyltransferase J (GtfJ) cloned from Streptococcus salivarius was regioselectively aminated as 6-amino-6-deoxy-(1→3)-α-d-glucan (aminoglucan) through three steps: bromination, azidation, and reduction. The degree of substitution of the amino group was determined by elemental analysis to be 0.97 and the molecular weight was 3.74×10⁴ as measured by size exclusion chromatography. The regioselective amination at the C6 position of every pyranose ring was confirmed by ¹H/¹³C NMR and solid state ¹⁵N cross polarization/magic angle spinning NMR spectroscopy. Aminoglucan was characterized by FT-IR, X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. Solubility of aminoglucan in various solvents was investigated and confirmed in aqueous solution at pH ≤ 11. Therefore, aminoglucan was crosslinked with ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDE) by an epoxy-ring opening reaction under alkaline conditions. The obtained EGDE-crosslinked aminoglucan hydrogels were highly swellable in water owing to a strong water-holding ability and no water was released on compression and breaking of the gels.

A Report on Fungal (1→3)-α-d-glucans: Properties, Functions and Application

The cell walls of fungi are composed of glycoproteins, chitin, and α- and β-glucans. Although there are many reports on β-glucans, α-glucan polysaccharides are not yet fully understood. This review characterizes the physicochemical properties and functions of (1→3)-α-d-glucans. Particular attention has been paid to practical application and the effect of glucans in various respects, taking into account unfavourable effects and potential use. The role of α-glucans in plant infection has been proven, and collected facts have confirmed the characteristics of Aspergillus fumigatus infection associated with the presence of glucan in fungal cell wall. Like β-glucans, there are now evidence that α-glucans can also stimulate the immune system. Moreover, α-d-glucans have the ability to induce mutanases and can thus decompose plaque.

A new method for α-specific glucosylation and its application to the one-pot synthesis of a branched α-glucan

We have developed a new and highly efficient α-specific glucosylation method based on the synergistic α-directing effects of a TolSCl/AgOTf promoter system and the steric β-shielding or the remote participation of protecting groups at the donor 6-O-position.

Polysaccharide of Ganoderma and Its Bioactivities

Ganoderma, named lingzhi in China, has been used for centuries as drug and nutraceutical to treat diseases. Based on our research and other literatures, the chapter summarizes the progress of preparation, structural features and properties, bioactivities of Ganoderma polysaccharides. The aim is to provide a comprehensive source of information for researchers and consumers of Ganoderma, so they can better understand Ganoderma polysaccharides and their biological activities. In addition, more clinical studies should be carried out to meet the criteria for new drug development, and more convincing scientific data should be provided. In addition, on the basis of a large number of studies on Ganoderma polysaccharides, we suggest that more clinical studies should be carried out so that Ganoderma can be better recognized and applied all over the world.

Researches and Application of Ganoderma Spores Powder

Ganoderma lucidum spores (GLS) are the mature germ cells of Ganoderma lucidum. They have all the genetic substances and similar active components of Ganoderma lucidum. Similar to the fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum, ganoderma spores powder has the effect of regulating immunity, antitumor, antioxidation, and protecting cells and so on. In recent decades, with the development of the technology of breaking the wall of Ganoderma lucidum spores and the technology of extracting and preparing, the researches and application of Ganoderma lucidum spores powder have made great progress.

Anti-Cancerous Potential of Polysaccharide Fractions Extracted from Peony Seed Dreg on Various Human Cancer Cell Lines Via Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis

In this study, four homo/heterogenous polysaccharides (HBSS, CHSS, DASS, and CASS) extracted from peony seed dreg with respective molecular weights of 3467, 4677, 229, and 56 kDa were evaluated for anti-cancerous attributes in prostate cancer cells (Pc-3), colon cancer cells (HCT-116), human breast cancer cells (MCF-7), cervical cancer (Hela cells) and human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK 293) cells as control. Among them, CASS and DASS extracted by alkali, consisted of 34.43% Gal, 26.39% Ara, 21.80% Glc and 35.77% Ara, 19.35% Gal, 17.77% Man, respectively. CASS fraction had the most significant inhibitory effects on all the cell lines used whereas HBSS had least effect. The CASS shown remarkable inhibition and cytotoxic effects in Hela cells followed by other cell lines as compared to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). CASS arrested cell cycle in G0/G1 phase except MCF-7 cells and increased apoptotic cells percentage varied in different treated cells. CASS down regulated the expression of Cyclin A/B1/D1/E1, CDK-1/2/4/6 and p15/16/21/27 excluding p53. The notable change in expression of proteins (Cytochrome C, Bax, Bcl-2, p-Caspase-3, -8, -9, and PARP) was observed followed by Apaf-1 and Survivin. These findings indicated that CASS has an anti-cancerous potential in the treatment of human cancers which make it a potent candidate in functional foods.

Bioactivities, isolation and purification methods of polysaccharides from natural products: A review

Polysaccharides play multiple roles and have extensive bioactivities in life process and an immense potential in healthcare, food and cosmetic industries, due to their therapeutic effects and relatively low toxicity. This review describes their major functions involved in antitumor, anti-virus, and anti-inflammatory bioactivities. Due to their enormous structural heterogeneity, the approaches for isolation and purification of polysaccharides are distinct from that of the other macromolecules such as proteins, etc. Yet, to achieve the homogeneity is the initial step for studies of polysaccharide structure, pharmacology, and its structure-activity relationships. According to the experiences accumulated by our lab and the published literatures, this review also introduces the methods widely used in isolation and purification of polysaccharides.

Protective Effects of Sporoderm-Broken Spores of Ganderma lucidum on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity and Immune Function of Broiler Chickens Exposed to Low Level of Aflatoxin B₁

This study was conducted to investigate the toxic effects of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) and evaluate the effects of sporoderm-broken spores of Ganoderma lucidum (SSGL) in relieving aflatoxicosis in broilers. A total of 300 one-day-old male Arbor Acre broiler chickens were randomly divided into four dietary treatments; the treatment diets were: Control (a basal diet containing normal peanut meal); AFB₁ (the basal diet containing AFB₁-contaminated peanut meal); SSGL (basal diet with 200 mg/kg of SSGL); AFB₁+SSGL (supplementation of 200 mg/kg of SSGL in AFB₁ diet). The contents of AFB₁ in AFB₁ and AFB₁+SSGL diets were 25.0 μg/kg in the starter period and 22.5 μg/kg in the finisher period. The results showed that diet contaminated with a low level of AFB₁ significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the average daily feed intake and average daily gain during the entire experiment and reduced (p < 0.05) serum contents of total protein IgA and IgG. Furthermore, a dietary low level of AFB₁ not only increased (p < 0.05) levels of hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation, but also decreased (p < 0.05) total antioxidant capability, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and hydroxyl radical scavenger activity in the liver and spleen of broilers. Moreover, the addition of SSGL to AFB₁-contaminated diet counteracted these negative effects, indicating that SSGL has a protective effect against aflatoxicosis.

Effect of modified dietary fiber extracted from wholegrain wheat on the physicochemical and cake properties

Dietary fiber (DF) extracted from whole wheat was chemically modified by cross-linking (CL), carboxymethylation (CM), and hydroxypropylation (HP) and their physicochemical properties and baking performance were evaluated. CM contributed to the increase in soluble DF (SDF) contents and water solubility. While CL and HP contributed to the decrease in water solubility as insoluble DF (IDF) contents increased. In comparison to the chemically modified DF, CLDF deteriorated textural and physical properties of cakes. On the other hand, the cakes with CMDF and HPDF had improved cake qualities such as appearance, higher volume and lower hardness compared to cake with native DF. Consequently, this study suggested that the chemical modifications of wheat DF can effectively regulate the IDF/SDF ratio and total dietary fiber (TDF) contents, resulting in the change of physicochemical properties of them. When applied to cake, modified wheat DF diversified the physicochemical properties and quality by a functional group.

Carbohydrate-Carbohydrate Interactions Mediated by Sulfate Esters and Calcium Provide the Cell Adhesion Required for the Emergence of Early Metazoans

Early metazoans had to evolve the first cell adhesion mechanism addressed to maintain a distinctive multicellular morphology. As the oldest extant animals, sponges are good candidates for possessing remnants of the molecules responsible for this crucial evolutionary innovation. Cell adhesion in sponges is mediated by the calcium-dependent multivalent self-interactions of sulfated polysaccharides components of extracellular membrane-bound proteoglycans, namely aggregation factors. Here, we used atomic force microscopy to demonstrate that the aggregation factor of the sponge Desmapsamma anchorata has a circular supramolecular structure and that it thus belongs to the spongican family. Its sulfated polysaccharide units, which were characterized via nuclear magnetic resonance analysis, consist preponderantly of a central backbone composed of 3-α-Glc1 units partially sulfated at 2- and 4-positions and branches of Pyr(4,6)α-Gal1→3-α-Fuc2(SO3)1→3-α-Glc4(SO3)1→3-α-Glc→4-linked to the central α-Glc units. Single-molecule force measurements of self-binding forces of this sulfated polysaccharide and their chemically desulfated and carboxyl-reduced derivatives revealed that the sulfate epitopes and extracellular calcium are essential for providing the strength and stability necessary to sustain cell adhesion in sponges. We further discuss these findings within the framework of the role of molecular structures in the early evolution of metazoans.

Structure-function relationships of immunostimulatory polysaccharides: A review

Immunostimulatory polysaccharides are compounds capable of interacting with the immune system and enhance specific mechanisms of the host response. Glucans, mannans, pectic polysaccharides, arabinogalactans, fucoidans, galactans, hyaluronans, fructans, and xylans are polysaccharides with reported immunostimulatory activity. The structural features that have been related with such activity are the monosaccharide and glycosidic-linkage composition, conformation, molecular weight, functional groups, and branching characteristics. However, the establishment of structure-function relationships is possible only if purified and characterized polysaccharides are used and selective structural modifications performed. Aiming at contributing to the definition of the structure-function relationships necessary to design immunostimulatory polysaccharides with potential for preventive or therapeutical purposes or to be recognized as health-improving ingredients in functional foods, this review introduces basic immunological concepts required to understand the mechanisms that rule the potential claimed immunostimulatory activity of polysaccharides and critically presents a literature survey on the structural features of the polysaccharides and reported immunostimulatory activity.

Characterization, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of sulfated derivatives of a water-insoluble polysaccharides from Dictyophora indusiata

The present study described the characterization and biological properties of water‑soluble sulfated polysaccharides prepared from water‑insoluble polysaccharide (DIP), which were extracted from Dictyophora indusiata. The sulfation of DIP was performed using the chlorosulfonic acid‑pyridine method. The water solubilities of the sulfated derivatives were measured at room temperature according to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The scavenging activity of hydroxyl radicals and 1,1‑diphenyl‑2‑picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) as determined, together with the reduction ability of the sulfated polysaccharides. The cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects of DIP and the sulfated derivatives on MCF‑7 and B16 cells were then determined using an MTT assay. The substitution degrees of the sulfated polysaccharides were 0.584 (S1‑DIP), 0.989 (S2‑DIP) and 1.549 (S3‑DIP) according to barium chloride‑gelatin nephelometry. Infrared spectroscopy and 13C‑nuclear magnetic resonance indicated that the substitution of S‑DIP occurred mainly at the C‑6 position, followed by the C‑4 and C‑2 positions. A significant increase was noted in the antioxidant activity of the sulfated derivatives compared with that of DIP. In addition, the S‑DIPs exhibited a more marked reducing capacity and clearing activity of hydroxyl radicals and DPPH. This indicated that the antioxidant capacity of the polysaccharides was significantly higher following sulfation. Furthermore, in in vitro cell investigations, DIP exhibited no inhibitory effects on the growth of the B16 or MCF‑7 tumor cells. However, the sulfated derivatives exerted marked inhibitory effects on these cell lines. Sulfate modification may therefore contribute to an improvement in water solubility and in the antioxidant and antitumor activities of natural DIP.

Influence of culture medium growth variables on Ganoderma lucidum exopolysaccharides structural features

In this work the effect of carbon and nitrogen levels and initial pH of the wheat extract culture medium of submerged culture of Ganoderma lucidum on the amount, purity and structural features of exopolysaccharides (EPS) were studied. A low peptone level (1.65 g L(-1)) favored mycelium biomass, EPS purity, but a higher supply of peptone (4.80 g L(-1)) is needed for maximum EPS production. The carbohydrate composition of the EPS and structural features also changed significantly according to the different growing conditions, being observed significant differences in the (1 → 3)/(1 → 4)-Glcp ratio and also on the branching degree of EPS. As the biological activities of EPS are highly dependent on the polysaccharide structural features, this variability can have implications on the EPS biological activities, but can also be used advantageously to produce tailor made polysaccharides with specific applications.

Structural investigation and immunological activity of a heteropolysaccharide from Sargassum fusiforme

A heteropolysaccharide was isolated from the brown alga, Sargassum fusiforme. The heteropolysaccharide was estimated to have a molecular weight of 11kDa and showed [α]D(20) -62.2420 (c 0.05, H2O). SFPS65-B comprised galactose, glucose, mannose, fucose, and galacturonic acid at a ratio of 3.04:1:1.15:2.82:6.51. Its structural features were investigated using composition analysis, methylation analysis, IR, NMR spectroscopy, and ESI-Q-TOF MS spectroscopy. Results showed that SFPS65-B contained the backbone of →4)-α-GalAp-(1→4)-α-Hexp-(1→4)-α-GalAp-(1→4)-α-Fucp-(1→4)-α-GalAp-(1→. The sulfated unit and terminal fucose residues were attached onto the backbone through the O-2 of some galactose residues. Results also showed that SFPS65-B had a good effect on thymus and spleen indices at a dose of 100mg/kg upon immunosuppression in cyclophosphamide-treated mice.