Immune-modulating activities of polysaccharides extracted from brown algae Hizikia fusiforme

Near-infrared spectroscopy for the quality control of Sarassum fusiforme: Prediction of antioxidant capability of Sarassum fusiforme at different growth stages

The healthy benefits of seaweed have increased its market demand in recent times. Quality control is crucial for seaweed to ensure the customers' interest and the sustainable development of seaweed farming industry. This study developed a quality control method for seaweed Sargassum fusiforme, rapid and simple, using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and chemometrics for the prediction of antioxidant capacity of S. fusiforme from different growth stages, S. fusiforme was distinguished according to growth stage by partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and particle swarm optimization-support vector machine (PSO-SVM). The antioxidant properties including 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) scavenging capacity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were quantified using competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS)-PLS model. Based on the spectra data preprocessed by multiplicative scatter and standard normal variate methods, the PSO-SVM models can accurately identify the growth stage of all S. fusiforme samples. The CARS-PLS models exhibited good performance in predicting the antioxidant capacity of S. fusiforme, with coefficient of determination (RP2) and root mean square error (RMSEP) values in the independent prediction sets reaching 0.9778 and 0.4018 % for ABTS, 0.9414 and 2.0795 % for DPPH, and 0.9763 and 2.4386 μmol L-1 for FRAP, respectively. The quality and market price of S. fusiforme should increase in the order of maturation < growth < seedling regarding the antioxidant property. The overall results indicated that the NIR spectroscopy accompanied by chemometrics can assist for the quality control of S. fusiforme in a more rapid and simple manner. This study also provided a customer-oriented concept of seaweed quality grading based on deep insight into the antioxidant capability of S. fusiforme at different growth stages, which is highly valuable for precise quality control and standardization of seaweed market.

In vitro and in vivo immuno-enhancing effect of fucoidan isolated from non-edible brown seaweed Sargassum thunbergii

Fucoidan has been reported to have various biological activities, such as antioxidant, antitumor and anticoagulant, with various health benefits. However, few studies have been conducted to extract fucoidan from Sargassum thunbergii in terms of its immuno-enhancing activities. This aim of this study was to investigate the immuno-enhancing effect of fucoidan (S3) isolated from Sargassum thunbergii through water extraction and ethanol precipitation in RAW 264.7 macrophages and zebrafish. The results showed that S3 contained a relatively high content of fucose and sulfated polysaccharide. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results show that the characteristic peaks at 845 cm-1 and 1220-1270 cm-1 indicate that S3 contains sulfate groups. In vitro, S3 effectively enhanced nitric oxide (NO) production and phagocytic activity. In addition, the results of the study demonstrated that the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and IL-10 was upregulated by nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo, S3 activates zebrafish immune responses by promoting secretion of NO and activating the NF-κB pathway. Overall, these results suggest that S3 could be used as a functional ingredient added to nutritional supplements and functional foods.

Bioactivities of the Popular Edible Brown Seaweed Sargassum fusiforme: A Review

Sargassum fusiforme has a wide range of active constituents (such as polysaccharides, sterols, polyphenols, terpenes, amino acids, trace elements, etc.) and is an economically important brown algae with a long history. In recent years, S. fusiforme has been intensively studied and has attracted wide attention in the fields of agriculture, environment, medicine, and functional food. In this review, we reviewed the current research status of S. fusiforme at home and abroad over the past decade by searching Web of science, Google Scholar, and other databases, and structurally analyzed the active components of S. fusiforme, and on this basis, we focused on summarizing the cutting-edge research and scientific issues on the role of various active substances in S. fusiforme in exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, antiviral antibacterial, and anticoagulant effects. The mechanisms by which different substances exert active effects were further summarized by exploring different experimental models and are shown visually. It provides a reference to promote further development and comprehensive utilization of S. fusiforme resources.

Miyeokgui (Undaria pinnatifida Sporophyll) Characteristic under Different Relative Humidity: Microbial Safety, Antioxidant Activity, Ascorbic Acid, Fucoxanthin, α-/β-/γ-Tocopherol Contents

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different relative humidities (%) on the microbial safety, antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid, fucoxanthin, and tocopherol contents of Undaria pinnatifida sporophyll powder (UPSP) stored for 4 weeks. The caking phenomenon did not occur in the 11-53% relative humidity conditions, but it did in the 69%, 81%, and 93% relative humidity conditions with caking index values of 88.30%, 99.75%, and 99.98%, respectively. The aerobic bacterial contents increased drastically in samples stored at 69-93% relative humidity. Ascorbic acid was unstable at high relative humidity, but fucoxanthin and tocopherol were more unstable at low relative humidity. Therefore, it was most stable at intermediate relative humidity. The 69% relative humidity sample had higher DPPH (12.57 g BHAE/kg), ABTS (4.87 g AAE/kg), and FRAP (4.60 g Fe (II)/kg) than the other samples. This study could be helpful for the storage and transport of UPSP under optimum relative humidity conditions, which can significantly prevent quality losses.

Sulfated Glucuronorhamnoxylan from Capsosiphon fulvescens Ameliorates Osteoporotic Bone Resorption via Inhibition of Osteoclastic Cell Differentiation and Function In Vitro and In Vivo

Excessive osteoclast differentiation and/or bone resorptive function causes a gradual loss of bone, leading to the pathogenesis of bone diseases such as osteoporosis (OP). In this study, a sulfated glucuronorhamnoxylan polysaccharide (designated SPS-CF) of the green alga Capsosiphon fulvescens was evaluated for anti-osteoporotic activity using osteoclastic cells differentiated from RAW264.7 macrophages by receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) treatment and ovariectomized (OVX) female mice as a postmenopausal OP model. With negligible cytotoxicity, SPS-CF (50 μg/mL) significantly suppressed tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity, actin ring formation, and expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), cathepsin K, TRAF6, p-Pyk2, c-Cbl, c-Src, gelsolin, carbonic anhydrase II (CA II), and integrin β3, indicating that SPS-CF inhibits the differentiation and bone resorptive function of osteoclasts. Removal of sulfate groups from SPS-CF abolished its anti-osteoclastogenic activities, demonstrating that sulfate groups are critical for its activity. Oral administration of SPS-CF (400 mg/kg/day) to OVX mice significantly augmented the bone mineral density (BMD) and serum osteoprotegerin (OPG)/RANKL ratio. These results demonstrated that SPS-CF exerts significant anti-osteoporotic activity by dampening osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption via downregulation of TRAF6-c-Src-Pyk2-c-Cbl-gelsolin signaling and augmentation of serum OPG/RANKL ratios in OVX mice, suggesting that SPS-CF can be a novel anti-osteoporotic compound for treating postmenopausal OP.

An insight to the therapeutic potential of algae-derived sulfated polysaccharides and polyunsaturated fatty acids: Focusing on the COVID-19

Covid-19 pandemic severely affected human health worldwide. The rapidly increasing COVID-19 cases and successive mutations of the virus have made it a major challenge for scientists to find the best and efficient drug/vaccine/strategy to counteract the virus pathogenesis. As a result of research in scientific databases, regulating the immune system and its responses with nutrients and nutritional interventions is the most critical solution to prevent and combat this infection. Also, modulating other organs such as the intestine with these compounds can lead to the vaccines' effectiveness. Marine resources, mainly algae, are rich sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds with known immunomodulatory properties and the gut microbiome regulations. According to the purpose of the review, algae-derived bioactive compounds with immunomodulatory activities, sulfated polysaccharides, and polyunsaturated fatty acids have a good effect on the immune system. In addition, they have probiotic/prebiotic properties in the intestine and modulate the gut microbiomes; therefore, they can increase the effectiveness of vaccines produced. Thus, they with respectable safety, immune regulation, and modulation of microbiota have potential therapeutic against infections, especially COVID-19. They can also be employed as promising candidates for the prevention and treatment of viral infections, such as COVID-19.

An Overview of the Alternative Use of Seaweeds to Produce Safe and Sustainable Bio-Packaging

In modern times, seaweeds have become widely involved in several biotechnological applications due to the variety of their constituent bioactive compounds. The consumption of seaweeds dates to ancient times; however, only from the last few decades of research can we explain the mechanisms of action and the potential of seaweed-derived bioactive compounds, which has led to their involvement in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. Macroalgae-derived bioactive compounds are of great importance as their properties enable them to be ideal candidates for the production of sustainable “green” packaging. Diverse studies demonstrate that seaweed polysaccharides (e.g., alginates and carrageenans) not only provide health benefits, but also contribute to the production of biopolymeric film and biodegradable packaging. The dispersion of plastics and microplastics in the oceans provoke serious environmental issues that influence ecosystems and aquatic organisms. Thus, the sustainable use of seaweed-derived biopolymers is now crucial to replace plasticizers with biodegradable materials, and thus preserve the environment. The present review aims to provide an overview on the potential of seaweeds in the production of bioplastics which might be involved in food or pharmaceutical packaging.

An Overview of Potential Seaweed-Derived Bioactive Compounds for Pharmaceutical Applications

Nowadays, seaweeds are widely involved in biotechnological applications. Due to the variety of bioactive compounds in their composition, species of phylum Ochrophyta, class Phaeophyceae, phylum Rhodophyta and Chlorophyta are valuable for the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Seaweeds have been consumed as whole food since ancient times and used to treat several diseases, even though the mechanisms of action were unknown. During the last decades, research has demonstrated that those unique compounds express beneficial properties for human health. Each compound has peculiar properties (e.g., antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral activities, etc.) that can be exploited to enhance human health. Seaweed’s extracted polysaccharides are already involved in the pharmaceutical industry, with the aim of replacing synthetic compounds with components of natural origin. This review aims at a better understanding of the recent uses of algae in drug development, with the scope of replacing synthetic compounds and the multiple biotechnological applications that make up seaweed’s potential in industrial companies. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of action of seaweed’s compounds and to embrace the use of seaweeds in pharmaceutical companies and other applications, with the final scope being to produce sustainable and healthier products.

Hizikia fusiformis: Pharmacological and Nutritional Properties

The brown seaweed Hizikia fusiformis (syn. Sargassum fusiforme), commonly known as “Hijiki”, has been utilized in traditional cuisine and medicine in East Asian countries for several centuries. H. fusiformis has attracted much attention owing to its rich nutritional and pharmacological properties. However, there has been no comprehensive review of the nutritional and pharmacological properties of H. fusiformis. The aim of this systematic review was to provide detailed information from the published literature on the nutritional and pharmacological properties of H. fusiformis. A comprehensive online search of the literature was conducted by accessing databases, such as PubMed, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, for published studies on the nutritional and pharmacological properties of H. fusiformis between 2010 and 2021. A total of 916 articles were screened from all the databases using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses method. Screening based on the setdown criteria resulted in 59 articles, which were used for this review. In this review, we found that there has been an increase in the number of publications on the pharmacological and nutritional properties of H. fusiformis over the last 10 years. In the last 10 years, studies have focused on the proximate, mineral, polysaccharide, and bioactive compound composition, and pharmacological properties, such as antioxidant, anticancer, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, photoprotective, neuroprotective, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, osteoprotective, and gastroprotective properties of H. fusiformis extracts. Overall, further studies and strategies are required to develop H. fusiformis as a promising resource for the nutrition and pharmacological industries.

Antioxidant and Signal-Modulating Effects of Brown Seaweed-Derived Compounds against Oxidative Stress-Associated Pathology

The biological and therapeutic properties of seaweeds have already been well known. Several studies showed that among the various natural marine sources of antioxidants, seaweeds have become a potential source of antioxidants because of their bioactive compounds. Most of the metabolic diseases are caused by oxidative stress. It is very well known that antioxidants have a pivotal role in the treatment of those diseases. Recent researches have revealed the potential activity of seaweeds as complementary medicine, which have therapeutic properties for health and disease management. Among the seaweeds, brown seaweeds (Phaeophyta) and their derived bioactive substances showed excellent antioxidant properties than other seaweeds. This review focuses on brown seaweeds and their derived major bioactive compounds such as sulfated polysaccharide, polyphenol, carotenoid, and sterol antioxidant effects and molecular mechanisms in the case of the oxidative stress-originated disease. Antioxidants have a potential role in the modification of stress-induced signaling pathways along with the activation of the oxidative defensive pathways. This review would help to provide the basis for further studies to researchers on the potential antioxidant role in the field of medical health care and future drug development.

Inhibitory Effect of Sargassum fusiforme and Its Components on Replication of Respiratory Syncytial Virus In Vitro and In Vivo

Sargassum fusiforme, a plant used as a medicine and food, is regarded as a marine vegetable and health supplement to improve life expectancy. Here, we demonstrate that S. fusiforme extract (SFE) has antiviral effects against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in vitro and in vivo mouse model. Treatment of HEp2 cells with a non-cytotoxic concentration of SFE significantly reduced RSV replication, RSV-induced cell death, RSV gene transcription, RSV protein synthesis, and syncytium formation. Moreover, oral inoculation of SFE significantly improved RSV clearance from the lungs of BALB/c mice. Interestingly, the phenolic compounds eicosane, docosane, and tetracosane were identified as active components of SFE. Treatment with a non-cytotoxic concentration of these three components elicited similar antiviral effects against RSV infection as SFE in vitro. Together, these results suggest that SFE and its potential components are a promising natural antiviral agent candidate against RSV infection.

The Impact of Antarctic Ice Microalgae Polysaccharides on D-Galactose-Induced Oxidative Damage in Mice

Antarctic ice microalgae (Chlamydomonas sp.) are a polysaccharide-rich natural marine resource. In this study, we evaluated the impact of Antarctic ice microalgae polysaccharides (AIMP) on D-galactose-induced oxidation in mice. We conducted biological and biochemical tests on tissue and serum samples from mice treated with AIMP. We found that AIMP administration was associated with improved thymus, brain, heart, liver, spleen, and kidney index values. We also found that AIMP treatment inhibited the reduced aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione levels as well as the increased serum, splenic, and hepatic nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels arising from oxidation in these animals. Pathological examination revealed that AIMP also inhibited D-galactose-induced oxidative damage to the spleen, liver, and skin of these animals. AIMP was additionally found to promote the upregulation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, cuprozinc-superoxide dismutase, manganese superoxide dismutase, catalase, heme oxygenase-1, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase, and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 as well as the downregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase in these animals. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed AIMP to be composed of five monosaccharides (mannitol, ribose, anhydrous glucose, xylose, and fucose). Together, these results suggest that AIMP can effectively inhibit oxidative damage more readily than vitamin C in mice with D-galactose-induced oxidative damage, which underscores the value of developing AIMP derivatives for food purposes.

Macroalgal dietary glycans: potential source for human gut bacteria and enhancing immune system for better health

Macroalgae are the diverse group of photosynthetic algae found at the intertidal regions of oceans. Recent advances suggest that macroalgal derived glycans have tremendous potential to maintain gut microbiome and immune system. The human gut bacteria harbor unique arsenals for utilizing a variety of macroalgal glycans, and produce a variety of oligosaccharides in vivo. Those oligosaccharides interact with immune cell receptors, and also are available for microbial fermentation, thus play magnificent roles in balancing the gut homeostasis. However, this area of research is still in infancy condition in term to understand their molecular interactions. For wooing this area, we urge to emphasize more studies on mechanistic level sympathetic of depolymerizing marine dietary glycans by gut bacteria and elucidating molecular aspect of glycans to cell receptors interactions. This will invent new nutraceutical strategies to purposefully manipulate the microbial composition to improve health. Therefore, review focuses on the recent development of mechanistic understanding of human gut bacterial communities for utilizing macroalgal derived glycans. Recent trends of application of glycans in modulating immune system at mechanistic level and their available evidences are discussed.

Dietary Hizikia fusiforme enhance survival of white spot syndrome virus infected crayfish Procambarus clarkii

The sea vegetable Hizikia fusiforme is not only a good source of dietary fiber but also enhances immunity. In this study, we investigated the effects of H. fusiforme on innate immunity in invertebrates, using white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) challenge in the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. Supplementation with H. fusiforme significantly reduced mortality caused by WSSV infection and also reduced copy numbers of the WSSV protein VP28. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction showed that supplementation of feed with H. fusiforme increased the expression of immune-related genes, including NF-κB and crustin 1. Further analysis showed that supplementation with H. fusiforme also affected three immune parameters, total hemocyte count, and phenoloxidase and superoxide dismutase activity. H. fusiforme treatment significantly increased hemocyte apoptosis rates in both WSSV-infected and uninfected crayfish. H. fusiforme thus regulates the innate immunity of crayfish, and both delays and reduces mortality after WSSV challenge. Our study demonstrates the potential for the commercial use of H. fusiforme, either therapeutically or prophylactically, to regulate the innate immunity and protect crayfish against WSSV infection.

Ethanol Extract of Hizikia fusiforme Induces Apoptosis in B16F10 Mouse Melanoma Cells through ROS-Dependent Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have reported that Hizikia fusiforme, an edible brown seaweed, has diverse health-promoting effects; however, evidence for its anti-cancer potential is still lacking. In this study, we examined the effect of ethanol extract of H. fusiforme (EHF) on the proliferation of B16F10 mouse melanoma cells.

METHODS

Analyses of cell viability and apoptosis were performed to study the actions of EHF on B16F10 cells. Cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were measured using a flow cytometer. Western blot analysis was carried out to measure apoptosis and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling related proteins.

RESULTS

EHF treatment significantly decreased B16F10 cell viability, which was associated with induction of apoptosis. EHF activated caspase-8 and caspase-9, which are involved in the initiation of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis pathways, respectively, and also increased caspase-3 activity, a typical effect caspase, subsequently leading to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage. In addition, EHF destroyed the integrity of mitochondria and increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, which contributed to cytosolic release of cytochrome c. EHF further enhanced intracellular levels of ROS and the addition of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), a ROS inhibitor, significantly diminished EHF-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and growth inhibition. Moreover, EHF inactivated the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and LY294002, a PI3K/Akt inhibitor, increased the apoptosis-inducing effect of EHF. However, increased apoptosis and reduced cell viability by simultaneous treatment of EHF and LY294002 were significantly attenuated in the presence of NAC.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that EHF induces apoptosis through activation of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways and ROS-dependent inactivation of PI3K/Akt signaling in B16F10 cells.
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Structural analysis of a novel sulfated galacto-fuco-xylo-glucurono-mannan from Sargassum fusiforme and its anti-lung cancer activity

Polysaccharide (HFSGF) was purified from Sargassum fusiforme. Autohydrolysis and gel column chromatography were performed to fractionate HFSGF into three components (HFSGF-S, HFSGF-L and HFSGF-H). Compositional analysis, mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were used to elucidate the structural features of HFSGF. HFSGF-S was a mixture of sulfated galacto-fuco-oligomers, from the branches terminal ends; in HFSGF-L, the branches of HFSGF, was a sulfated galactofucan, containing a backbone of 1,3-linked α-L-fucan sulfated at C2/4 and/or C4 and interspersed with galactose (Gal); and in HFSGF-H, the backbone of HFSGF, was composed of alternating 1,2-linked α-D-mannose (Man) and 1,4-linked β-D-glucuronic acid (GlcA), branched with sulfated galactofucan or sulfated fucan, 1,3-linked α-L-fucan sulfated at C2/4 and/or C4 and partly interspersed with Gal. Some fucose (Fuc) residues were also partially branched with xylose (Xyl). The anti-lung cancer activities of HFSGF-L and HFSGF-H against human lung cancer A549 cells in vitro and A549 xenograft tumor growth in vivo were determined. HFSGF-H had higher activity in vitro (IC50 ~12 mg/mL for 24 h) and in vivo (tumor inhibition ~51%.) than HFSGF-L, indicating that HFSGF-H might be a leading compound for a potential new therapeutics for the treatment of lung cancer.

Composition, isolation, purification and biological activities of Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides: A review

Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides, acidic water-soluble polysaccharides extract from Sargassum fusiforme, are mainly composed of alginic acid, fucoidan and laminaran. Alginic acid is carboxyl-containing polysaccharide formed by joining β-D-mannuronic acid and α-L-guluronic acid through β-(1→4)/α-(1→4) glycosidic bond. Fucoidan, a natural water-soluble sulfated heteropolysaccharide with fucose and sulfuric acid groups as the core structure, is mainly linked by L-fucose through α-(1→3) glycosidic bond and has the strongest biological activity. Laminaran is mainly composed of β-D-glucose through β-(1→3) glycosidic bond linkage. Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides have a variety of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-tumor, promoting immunity, anti-aging, prompting bone growth, lowering blood glucose, anti-coagulation, anti-virus, anti-bacteria, anti-fatigue, promoting growth and development, and skin protection. These activities are closely related to the functions of fucoidan in Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides, which fucoidan is able to strengthen immune system and antioxidation in human body. In this review, the composition, the isolation and purification, and the biological activities of Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides are discussed and can bereference for further study.

Immunomodulating effect of a seaweed extract from Ulva armoricana in pig: Specific IgG and total IgA in colostrum, milk, and blood

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MSP extract increased IgG anti-Bordetella titers with the highest dosage.

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Improved IgG anti-Bordetella transudation from the blood to the colostrum.

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MSP extract increased total IgA titers in the milk, 7 days after farrowing.

The transfer of passive immunity from sows to piglets can be improved through the administration of immuno-stimulating products before farrowing. This study evaluated the immuno-stimulating effect of an algal sulfated polysaccharide extract (MSP extract) from the green algae Ulva armoricana when administrated orally to sows at the end of gestation. Four diets were tested: Control (no MSP extract), MSP1 (2 g/day of MSP extract), MSP2 (8 g/day), and MSP3 (16 g/day). The experimental diets were provided in two periods: before the last atrophic rhinitis vaccine booster, and a week before farrowing. Anti-Bordetella IgG antibodies were recorded in blood, colostrum, and milk, and total IgA were measured in colostrum and milk. Titer kinetics between the blood sampled before farrowing and colostrum displayed an increase in specific IgG for MSP3. Moreover, the MSP2 diet increased the level of total IgA in milk compared to the control group. Although the immuno-stimulating effect of MSP extract on piglet performance was not concurrent across the different supplementation levels, the present study supports the use of natural algae extract (MSP) as an immunomodulating solution in swine production.

Protective effect of polysaccharides from Celluclast-assisted extract of Hizikia fusiforme against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in vitro in Vero cells and in vivo in zebrafish

Polysaccharides were extracted by Celluclast-assisted hydrolysis and ethanol precipitation from Hizikia fusiforme (HFPS), and their in vitro antioxidant effects were evaluated in Vero cells. HFPS contains 63.56±0.32% sulfate polysaccharides, which comprise fucose (53.53%), galactose (23.15%), glucose (5.95%), and xylose (17.37%). HFPS scavenged DPPH, alkyl, and hydroxyl radicals at IC50 values of 0.81±0.02, 0.25±0.02, and 0.21±0.03mg/mL, respectively. HFPS significantly reduced H2O2-induced cytotoxicity in Vero cells. Furthermore, HFPS reduced intracellular ROS levels, and H2O2-induced apoptosis. HFPS has a strong protective effect against H2O2-stimulated oxidative stress in vivo in zebrafish, and showed improved survival rate, decreased heart rate, and reduced ROS generation and cell death. These results suggest that HFPS may be useful as an antioxidant in medical and cosmetic industries.

Costaria costata Extract Suppresses Development of Atopic Dermatitis in chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene-treated NC/Nga Mice

We investigated the potential effects of Costaria costata (CC) on atopic dermatitis (AD) development in chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB)-treated NC/Nga mice. CC is a brown alga distributed across the seas of Korea, China, and Japan. A total of 40 mice were randomly assigned to 5 groups with 8 mice per group: untreated Balb/c mice, AD control (0.1% w/v DNCB-treated NC/Nga mice), positive control (i.e., DNCB-treated NC/Nga mice fed a dietary supplement of 66.6 mg/kg of body weight [b.w.] of CJLP133), DNCB-treated NC/Nga mice fed a dietary supplement of 100 mg/kg b.w. of CCE10 (CCE10 100), and DNCB-treated mice fed a dietary supplement of 300 mg/kg b.w. of CCE10 (CCE10 300) groups. The CCE10 100 and CCE10 300 treatment groups suppressed AD development including clinical and histopathological changes and a reduction in skin hydration induced by DNCB. In addition, Th2 cytokine production in primary splenocytes, serum IgE and histamine production, and mast cell infiltration into the skin were suppressed in the CCE10 300 mice compared to the CCE10 100 mice. Our finding demonstrated an inhibitory effect of CCE10 in AD development by means of improving the Th1/Th2 cytokine balance and anti-inflammatory effect in an in vivo model.

Hematologic and serologic status of military working dogs given standard diet containing natural botanical supplements

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The experiments with military working dogs (MWDs) as a special case were carried out.

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Osteoarthritis is a common inflammatory disease in MWDs.

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We evaluated a mixture of natural botanicals as a dietary supplement.

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This supplementation had positive effects on hematological and serological values.

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Results provided support for the development of a feed supplement for MWDs.

The health of military working dogs (MWDs) deployed with Korean troops is of prime importance. The aim of our study was to investigate the hematologic and serologic status of Korean MWDs given natural botanical supplements. To do this, 11 natural botanicals were selected based on relevant references and combined to supplement MWDs. Throughout the 16-week experimental periods, there was no significant difference in body weights of individual dogs. The Hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) values were slightly higher in the group given the supplement. On the other hand, the Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) values were slightly lower. Changes in platelet, lymphocyte, and basophil counts were observed in the supplemented group. The median serum IL-6 level did not differ significantly between the supplemented and control groups. However, the mean serum C-reactive protein (CRP) value increased significantly from the start of supplementation to 8 weeks, and then decreased at 16 weeks. Taken together, our result suggests that the health condition of most MWDs supplemented with natural botanicals was gradually improved. Thus, this study may provide support for the development of a feed supplement for MWDs using natural botanicals.

Recent Advances in Marine Algae Polysaccharides: Isolation, Structure, and Activities

Marine algae have attracted a great deal of interest as excellent sources of nutrients. Polysaccharides are the main components in marine algae, hence a great deal of attention has been directed at isolation and characterization of marine algae polysaccharides because of their numerous health benefits. In this review, extraction and purification approaches and chemico-physical properties of marine algae polysaccharides (MAPs) are summarized. The biological activities, which include immunomodulatory, antitumor, antiviral, antioxidant, and hypolipidemic, are also discussed. Additionally, structure-function relationships are analyzed and summarized. MAPs' biological activities are closely correlated with their monosaccharide composition, molecular weights, linkage types, and chain conformation. In order to promote further exploitation and utilization of polysaccharides from marine algae for functional food and pharmaceutical areas, high efficiency, and low-cost polysaccharide extraction and purification methods, quality control, structure-function activity relationships, and specific mechanisms of MAPs activation need to be extensively investigated.

Immunostimulatory Effect of Enzyme-Modified Hizikia fusiformein a Mouse Model In Vitro and Ex Vivo

Hizikia fusiforme, a brown seaweed, has been utilized as a health food and in traditional medicine. In this study, we investigated whether enzyme-modified H. fusiforme extracts (EH) have immunological effects compared with normal H. fusiforme extracts (NH). The effects of NH and EH on immune responses were investigated by assessing nitric oxide (NO) production, phagocytosis, and cytokine secretion in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages and mice. Also, fucosterol was evaluated to find the active component of NH and EH by addressing cytotoxicity test and NO production. Both of NH and EH significantly increased cell viability and NO synthesis. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression was more induced by EH with LPS treatment. Phagocytic activity, as the primary function of macrophages, was markedly induced by EH treatment. Additionally, EH encouraged splenocyte proliferation and recovered the levels of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in mice. Finally, fucosterol increased NO production with no cytotoxicity, which means that fucosterol is an active component of EH. In conclusion, EH has the potential to modulate immune function and could offer positive therapeutic effect for immune system diseases.

Osteoprotective Effects of Polysaccharide-Enriched Hizikia fusiforme Processing Byproduct In Vitro and In Vivo Models

The traditional manufacturing method used to produce goods from Hizikia fusiforme, utilizes extraction steps with hot water. The byproduct (of hot water extraction) is rich in polysaccharide and is considered a waste. To evaluate the osteogenic effects of the byproduct of H. fusiforme (HFB), osteogenic cells and animal models were used to test it effects on osteogenesis. The HFB-treated mouse myoblast C2C12 cells exhibited significant dose dependently elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and slightly increased bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2). HFB also suppressed the formation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and TRAP staining in the bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMM) cells that had been stimulated with the receptor activator of the nuclear factor kB ligand/macrophage colony-stimulating factor kB ligand. In addition, HFB also increased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (p-ERK) level. Finally, osteogenic effects of HFB were clearly confirmed in the three in vivo models: zebrafish, ovariectomized mice, and mouse calvarial bones. HFB accelerated the rate of skeletal development in zebrafish and prevented much of the mouse femoral bone density loss of ovariectomized mice. Moreover, HFB enhanced woven bone formation over the periosteum of mouse calvarial bones. Our result showed that HFB functions as a bone resorption inhibitor as well as an activator of bone formation in vivo and in osteogenic in vitro cell systems.

A novel thyroglobulin-binding lectin from the brown alga Hizikia fusiformis and its antioxidant activities

A lectin (HFL) was isolated from the brown alga, Hizikia fusiformis, through ion exchange on cellulose DE52 and HPLC with a TSK-gel G4000PWXL column. SDS-PAGE showed that HFL had a molecular mass of 16.1 kDa. The HPLC (with a TSK-gel G4000PWXL column) indicated that HFL is a tetramer in its native state. The total carbohydrate content was 41%. Glucose, galactose and fucose were the monosaccharide units of HFL, and the normalized mol% values were 6, 14 and 80, respectively. HFL contains a large amount of the acidic amino acid, Asx. The β-elimination reaction suggested that the oligosaccharide and peptide moieties of HFL may belong to the N-glucosidic linkage. The amino acid sequences, of about five segments of HFL, were acquired by MALDI-TOF/TOF, and the sequences have no homology with other lectins. HFL was found to agglutinate sheep erythrocytes. The hemagglutination activity was inhibited by thyroglobulin, from bovine thyroid, but not by any of the monosaccharides tested. The lectin reaction was independent of the presence of the divalent cation Ca(2+). HFL showed free radical scavenging activity against hydroxyl, DPPH and ABTS(+) radicals.

Salicornia: evaluating the halophytic extremophile as a food and a pharmaceutical candidate

Food insecurity is a major issue in current scenario where a large section of mankind is at risk of insufficient diet. As food productivity has its limits, the prospecting of unutilized or underutilized flora as food candidates is collectively recognized as a sustainable option. In the past decade, a number of obscure plants have been identified to be rich in dietary components and deemed fit for integration into the food platter. This review discusses a candidate Salicornia, belonging to family Amaranthaceae. This halophyte has a broad geographical distribution, and phytochemical profiling has indicated its food relevance. An array of functional nutrients as fibers, polyphenols, and flavonoids have been detected in Salicornia. Though high salt, oxalate and saponin content in the plants are anti-nutrients, they can be removed to justify usage of Salicornia as a ‘sea vegetable’. Apart from culinary relevance, medicinal attributes like immunomodulatory, lipid-lowering, antiproliferative, osteoprotective, and hypoglycemic render this lesser-known marsh plant significant for phytochemical studies. This appraisal is expected to be useful towards further research and popularization of this extremophile halophyte.

Effect of Hijikia fusiforme extracts on degenerative osteoarthritis in vitro and in vivo models

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The inhibitory effect of Hijikia fusiforme (HF) extracts on degenerative osteoarthritis was examined in primary cultured rat cartilage cells and a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis rat model.

MATERIALS/METHODS

In vitro, cell survival and the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), collagen type I, collagen type II, aggrecan, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) was measured after H₂O₂ (800 µM, 2 hr) treatment in primary chondrocytes. In vivo animal study, osteoarthritis was induced by intra-articular injection of MIA into knee joints of rats, and then RH500, HFE250 and HFE500 were administered orally once a day for 28 days. To determine the anti-inflammatory effects of HFE, nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) expression were measured. In addition, real-time PCR was performed to measure the genetic expression of MMPs, collagen type I, collagen type II, aggrecan, and TIMPs.

RESULTS

In the in vitro assay, cell survival after H₂O₂ treatment was increased by HFE extract (20% EtOH). In addition, anabolic factors (genetic expression of collagen type I, II, and aggrecan) were increased by HFE extract (20% EtOH). However, the genetic expression of MMP-3 and 7, known as catabolic factors were significantly inhibited by treatment with HFE extract (20% EtOH). In the in vivo assay, anabolic factors (genetic expression of collagen type I, II, aggrecan, and TIMPs) were increased by oral administration of HFE extract. However, the genetic expression of MMP-3 and 7, known as catabolic factors, and production of NO and PGE₂ were significantly inhibited by treatment with oral administration of HFE extract.

CONCLUSIONS

HFE extract inhibited articular cartilage degeneration through preventing extracellular matrix degradation and chondrocyte injury.