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Tricholoma lobayense is a nutritious mushroom with great health benefits. Three polysaccharides with purity higher than 99% were successfully extracted from Tricholoma lobayense . The molecular weights of TLH-1, TLH-2 and TLH-3 were determined to be 8.43 × 10 5 ，5.36 × 10 5 and 4.53 × 10 3 Da, respectively. The backbones of TLH-1 and TLH-2 were mainly composed of 1,4-linked α- d -glucopyranosyl. However, polysaccharide TLH-3 was found to be a highly branched glucogalactan, which is made up of 1,3-linked α- d -glucopyranosyl branched at C-6 and 1,3-linked β - d -galactopyranosyl. In vitro antioxidant activity assays revealed that TLH-3 exhibited highest antioxidant activities among the polysaccharides from Tricholoma lobayense , which were comparable to those of ascorbic acid. The results suggested that the outstanding antioxidant activities of TLH-3 might depend on its low molecular weight, high branch degree, versatile linkage types and complex conformation. These characteristics make TLH-3 an attractive natural antioxidant for food and pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Polysaccharides extracted from mushrooms have shown a variety of medical activities, such as antitumor, immunostimulatory and hypoglycemic activity. In this study, characteristics and the antitumor activities of Sarcodon aspratus polysaccharides were investigated for the possibility of application of S. aspratus in health care and medicine. Two polysaccharide fractions (PSAN and PSAA) were extracted and isolated from the mycelium of S. aspratus. The average molecular weight of PSAN and PSAA were approximately 5.6×104 Da and 3.83×105 Da, respectively. PSAN was composed of l-rhamnose, d-xylose and d-mannose, with molar ratios of 1:10:21; PSAA consisted of l-rhamnose, d-xylose, d-mannose, d-glucose and d-galactose, with molar ratios of 1:39:76:10:21. Both PSAN and PSAA presented high antitumor activity against Hela cells in vitro. At a concentration of 400mg/L and an exposure time of 24h, the inhibition rates for PSAN and PSAA were 65% and 80%, respectively. PSAN and PSAA exhibited significantly lower cytotoxicity against human normal liver cell line L-02 than Hela tumor cells in comparison with 5-Fu. Polysaccharide extracted from an edible mushroom S. aspratus may be a potential candidate for developing a novel low toxicity antitumor agent. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A polysaccharide fraction was isolated from fresh Aloe barbadensis Miller leaves, which can promote the wound healing of the superficial II scald model mice. The monosaccharide composition and linkage determination were investigated by methylation and GC–MS, acetylation and GC, 13C NMR and DEPT. The results show that its glycosyl components contain d-glucose, d-galactose, d-xylose in a molar ratio of 5:5:1, and the API consists of a backbone of →2)-α-d-Galp-(1→2)-α-d-Glcp-(1→, having a branch of α-d-xylofuranosyl residue that is (1→3) linkage at O-3 of α-d-galactopyranosyl residue. It was found that the API could enhance proliferation of the human fibroblasts in vitro. The mechanisms of promotion proliferation were studied preliminarily. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper, discussed the high-pressure homogenization (HPH) method for the preparation of large-leaf yellow tea polysaccharide conjugates (LYTP), and the effects of LYTP on physicochemical properties as well as antioxidant activity were investigated. The results show that HPH extraction time was less than 0.5 h, and extraction rate reached 15.4%, which was nearly 1.8 times faster than that of hot water extraction (HWE). Component analysis showed that the total polysaccharide content of LYTP was higher, while the contents of polyphenols and free protein were lower than those of HWE. It is noteworthy that the 9.1% free protein content at 40 MPa was lower than that of the Sevag method (11.2%), indicating that HPH can eliminate the cumbersome protein removal process and is more environmentally. The small-molecule polysaccharide content extracted by HPH increased, but the monosaccharide composition did not change. Meanwhile, HPH decreased the particle size of the polysaccharides, and the changes in the surface topography of LYTP upon homogenization were confirmed with scanning electron microscopy. As a consequence, HPH extraction can improve the antioxidant capacity of LYTP. HPH extraction is an efficient, rapid and environmentally method for the preparation of polysaccharides, which could be widely used in the food industry. [Display omitted] • High-pressure homogenization extraction of polysaccharide from large-leaf yellow tea. • This non-heating method is efficient, and can greatly shorten the extraction time. • The physicochemical properties of the tea polysaccharides were determined and compared. • The polysaccharides exhibited stronger antioxidant activities in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal dysbiosis is one of the major causes of the occurrence of metabolic syndromes, such as obesity, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular diseases. Polysaccharide-based microbial therapeutic strategies have excellent potential in the treatment of metabolic syndromes, but the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain elusive. Identification of the internal regulatory mechanism of the gut microbiome and the interaction mechanisms involving bacteria and the host are essential to achieve precise control of the gut microbiome and obtain valuable clinical data. Polysaccharides cannot be directly digested; the behavior in the intestinal tract is considered a "bridge" between microbiota and host communication. To provide a relatively comprehensive reference for researchers in the field, we will discuss the polysaccharide extraction and purification processes and chemical and structural characteristics, focusing on the polysaccharides in gut microbiota through the immune system, gut-liver axis, gut-brain axis, energy axis interactions, and potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new polysaccharide fraction HLP-1 (2.55 × 105 Da) was obtained from the fruiting bodies of Helvella leucopus. Structural characterization of HLP-1 was elucidated by infrared spectroscopy, monosaccharide composition analysis, methylation analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and Congo red assay. HLP-1 was a mannan with a backbone of →6)- α -D-Man p (1 → 4)- α -D-Man p (1 →6)- α -D-Man p (1 → 3)- α -D-Man p (1 → 4)- α -D-Man p (1 → 3)- α -D-Man p (1→, which branched at the O-6 position and terminated with T- β -D-Man p. Moreover, HLP-1 could significantly improve the proliferation and neutral red phagocytosis of RAW264.7. Besides, HLP-1 could stimulate the production of nitric oxide (NO), ROS, tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF- α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). HLP-1 induced macrophage activation via NF-κB signal pathway. These findings indicated that HLP-1 was a potential immune enhancement agent applied in functional foods. • A new mannan HLP-1 was obtained from the fruiting bodies of Helvella leucopus. • Structural characterization of HLP-1 was analyzed. • HLP-1 possessed significantly immunostimulatory activity in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were (1) to prepare Armillariella tabescens mycelia polysaccharides (PAT) with remarkably growth inhibitory effect on typical food-borne pathogenic bacteria using a green and efficient polyamide method and (2) to explore the antibacterial mechanism of PAT for use as a natural antibacterial agent. The sugar and uronic acid contents of PAT were 93.41% and 12.24%, respectively. PAT could inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli , Proteus vulgaris , Bacillus subtilis , and Staphylococcus aureus cells, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 4.0, and 4.0 mg/mL, respectively. Ultra-high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed cell wall and membrane rupture of E. coli treated with PAT. Further, 0.5–4.0 mg/mL PAT was found to significantly (P < 0.01) and concentration-dependently increase the conductivity of the broth, exudation of the intracellular protein, and alkaline phosphatase and β-galactosidase activities. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed morphological changes in E. coli DNA after PAT treatment and intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation; flow cytometry revealed E. coli cell apoptosis. Our findings provide a theoretical basis and technical support for the development of PAT as a natural antibacterial product. • Preparation of antibacterial polysaccharides (PAT) using the polyamide method • PAT damaged E. coli cell wall and cell membrane. • PAT induced DNA morphological changes in E. coli. • PAT caused intracellular ROS accumulation in E. coli. • Multi-targeting ability of PAT, inducing drug resistance was difficult for E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucus penetration is one of the physiologic barriers of inhalation and nanocarriers can effectively facilitate the permeation of drugs. The interactions between the nanocarriers and mucin are crucial for penetration across the mucus layer on the respiratory tract. In this study, we proposed a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation method for the screening of polysaccharides that acted as the surface modification materials for inhalable nano-preparations to facilitate mucus penetration. MD revealed all-atom interactions between the monomers of polysaccharides, including dextran (DEX)/hyaluronic acid (HA)/carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) and the human mucin protein MUC5AC (hMUC5AC). The obtained data showed that DEX formed stronger non-covalent bonds with hMUC5AC compared to HA and CMCS, which suggested that HA and CMCS had better mucus permeability than DEX. For the in vitro verification, HA/CMCS-coated liposomes and DEX/PEG-inserted liposomes were prepared. The results of mucin interactions and mucus penetration studies confirmed that HA and CMCS possessed the weakest interactions with mucin and facilitated the mucus penetration, which was in consistent with the data from MD simulation. This work may shed light on the MD simulation-based screening of surface modification materials for inhalable nano-preparations to facilitate mucus penetration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemotherapy, the most common class of anticancer drugs, is considerably limited owing to its adverse side effects. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effect and mechanism of action of large-leaf yellow tea polysaccharides (ULYTP-1, 1.29 × 104 Da) against chemotherapeutic 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu). Structural characterisation revealed that ULYTP-1 was a β-galactopyranouronic acid. Furthermore, ULYTP-1 promoted autolysosome formation, activating autophagy and reducing the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by 5-Fu. Our in vivo study of 4 T1 tumour-bearing mice revealed that ULYTP-1 also attenuated 5-Fu toxicity through modulation of the gut microbiota. Moreover, ULYTP-1 effectively protected immune organs and the liver from 5-Fu toxicity, while promoting its tumour-inhibitory properties. The current findings provide a new strategy for optimising chemotherapy regimens in the clinic. [Display omitted] • Polysaccharide ULYTP-1 was extracted from large-leaf yellow tea. • ULYTP-1 is a β-galactopyranouronic acid with a spongy steric configuration. • ULYTP-1 activates autophagy to alleviate 5-fluorouracil-induced liver injury. • ULYTP-1 alleviated gut dysbiosis in 4 T1 tumour-bearing mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A polysaccharide, CSL-0.1, was isolated from the medicinal lichen, Usnea longissima. CSL-0.1 was a neutral rhamnose-containing glucogalactomannan with a molecular weight of 7.86 × 104 Da. The polysaccharide had a core mannan structure with (1 → 6)-α- d -Man p units as the main chain and was substituted at the O -2 positions with side chains containing (1 → 2)-α- d -Man p residue, [3)-α-Glc p (1 → 4)-α-Glc p (1→] and 6- O -substituted β- d -Gal f units. 2- O - and 2,3-di- O -substituted Rha p units. The effects of CSL-0.1 on intestinal immunity and antioxidant activity were evaluated. CSL-0.1 increased the spleen and thymus indices in a dose-dependent manner and conferred immunomodulation on reversing the Th1/Th2-related cytokine imbalance in cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced immunosuppressed mice. CSL-0.1 could also enhance the levels of secretory immunoglobulin A in CP-injected mice. Additionally, the antioxidant levels in the liver and intestine of the mice were increased 20%–50% after intragastric injection by CSL-0.1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two sulfated polysaccharide fractions (S1 and S2) were successfully isolated from seaweed Undaia pinnitafida and the chemical characteristics were determined. Antioxidant activities of the polysaccharide fractions were evaluated by assays of various antioxidants in vitro systems, including superoxide anion, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity and metal chelating ability. The results showed that the two sulfated polysaccharides contained rhamnose as the major neutral sugar and present high sulfate content (33.99–34.29%). Antioxidant assays suggested that the two sulfated polysaccharide fractions (S1 and S2) possessed good antioxidant properties and had stronger antioxidant abilities than de-sulfated polysaccharides (DS-1 and DS-2). Available data obtained by in vitro models suggested that the correlation between the sulfate content and antioxidant activity was positive. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Orthogonal array design (OAD) was applied for the first time to optimize ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UE) of polysaccharides from Poria cocos (PCP). An analysis of variance technique was employed as the data analysis strategy in this study. PCP were successfully extracted from P. cocos under the optimum UE conditions: 75min extraction time, 70 mesh particle size, and 90°C extraction temperature. An analytical method was developed and validated for the determination of chemical components of PCP by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Wistar rats were fed for 40days with PCP. The total antioxidant status of organs was assayed by monitoring antioxidant enzyme activities. Results indicated that PCP could increased the level of GSH and activities of antioxidant enzymes in Wistar rats. These results confirm the effectiveness of PCP supplementation in detoxifying free radicals that are produced excessively in rats with cervical cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

M1 polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) is a promising approach to breaking through therapeutic barriers imposed by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). As a clinically-used immunopotentiator for cancer patients after chemotherapies; however, the immunomodulatory mechanism and potential of polyporus polysaccharide (PPS) remains unclear. Here, we present mannose-decorated PPS-loaded superparamagnetic iron-based nanocomposites (Man/PPS-SPIONs) for synergistic M1 polarization of TAMs and consequent combinational anti-breast cancer therapy. Once internalized by M2-like TAMs, PPS released from Man/PPS-SPIONs induces the M1 polarization via IFN-γ secretion and downstream NF-κB pathway activating. The SPIONs within the nanocomposites mediate a Fenton reaction, producing OH· and activating the subsequent NF-κB/MAPK pathway, further facilitating the M1 polarization. The Man/PPS-SPIONs thereby establish a positive feedback loop of M1 polarization driven by the "IFN-γ-Fenton-NF-κB/MAPK" multi-pathway, leading to a series of anti-tumoral immunologic responses in the TME and holding promising potential in combinational anticancer therapies. Our study offers a new strategy to amplify TME engineering by combinational natural carbohydrate polymers and iron-based materials. [Display omitted] • Man/PPS-SPIONs exhibit tumor accumulation facilitated by an external magnetic field. • PPS and iron-based nanocarriers synergistically induce M1 polarization of TAMs. • The "IFN-γ-Fenton-NF-κB/MAPK" multi-pathway works for M1 polarization of TAMs. • Man/PPS-SPIONs created a favorable condition for celastrol-based therapy. • Man/PPS-SPIONs overcomes the limitations of celastrol in anti-tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) is an effective anticarcinogenic agent, however, continuous use of 5-Fu may cause severe side effects. The goal of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Sarcodon aspratus polysaccharides (SATP) in alleviating 5-Fu-induced toxicity in Lewis tumor-bearing mice. Lewis tumor-bearing mice were treated with saline, SATP, 5-Fu or 5-Fu + SATP. The results indicated that compared to the 5-Fu group, the 5-Fu + SATP group showed effective amelioration of the liver, kidney and small intestine injury caused by 5-Fu and decreases in the levels of related biochemical indicators, such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and urea nitrogen (BUN). Additionally, the combination therapy enhanced the quality of life and immune organ indexes of mice. Further mechanistic studies indicated that the 5-Fu + SATP group showed a decrease in hepatotoxicity caused by 5-Fu via a reduction in the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), an increase in the expression of Bcl-2 and decreases in the expression of p-p38, p-JNK and Bax. Collectively, the results indicated that SATP could significantly alleviate the toxicity of 5-Fu in Lewis tumor-bearing mice and showed the hepatoprotective capability of SATP via its effect on the expression levels of inflammatory factors and components of the MAPK/P38/JNK pathway, which shows that it may be a potential adjuvant for the chemotherapeutic drug 5-Fu in cancer treatment. • SATP could alleviate the toxicity of 5-Fu on tumor bearing mice organs. • SATP could enhance the immune functions during the tumor inhibition process of 5-Fu. • SATP has shown hepatoprotective ability by affecting MAPK/P38/JNK pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a complication of diabetes mellitus, has been the leading cause of death in people with chronic kidney disease. This study was conducted to examine the potential health benefits of Cordyceps cicadae polysaccharides (CCP) on kidney injury and renal interstitial fibrosis that occur in DN rats. First, a DN model was established using SD rats fed with a high-fat diet for 8 weeks, then injected with STZ (35 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. The rats were then supplemented with CCP (75, 150 and 300 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. The results indicated that CCP improve insulin resistance and glucose tolerance in DN rats. Furthermore, CCP intervention significantly suppressed the inflammation, renal pathological changes and renal dysfunction, slowing down the progression of renal interstitial fibrosis. Moreover, high-throughput pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA suggested that CCP modulated the dysbiosis of gut microbiota by enhancing the relative abundance and proliferation capacity of probiotics. In vitro, CCP can markedly decrease LPS-induced inflammatory cytokine levels and TGF-β1-induced fibroblast activation. In summary, the results provided evidence that CCP exerted a beneficial effect on tubulointerstitial fibrosis in DN rats by possibly suppressing the inflammatory response and modulating gut microbiota dysbiosis, via blocking the TLR4/NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD), accompanied by chronic low-grade inflammation, is one of the most common complications of diabetes. Armillariella tabescens has potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of polysaccharides from Armillariella tabescens mycelia (AT) on the kidney in type 2 diabetic mice and explore the underlying mechanism. The mice were randomized into 4 groups: normal control (NC), diabetic control (DC), DC + 200 mg/kg AT (LAT), and DC + 400 mg/kg AT (HAT). The results showed that compared with the NC group, the levels of fasting blood glucose, renal function-related indices, and serum pro-inflammatory mediators including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-18 were elevated; the renal morphopathological alterations, oxidative stress, and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation and renal fibrosis were aggravated; the intestinal microbiota dysbiosis and colonic inflammation and barrier dysfunction were deteriorated in the DC group. After supplementation with AT, the aforementioned indices were ameliorated in the AT treatment groups, especially in the HAT group. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that modulating the intestinal microbiota and inflammatory reaction was implicated in the effects of AT against DKD in mice. Unlabelled Image • AT alleviated renal damage by modulating the intestinal microbiota in T2DM mice. • AT alleviated renal inflammation by inhibiting LPS-triggered NLRP3 inflammasome. • AT enhanced the intestinal barrier function in T2DM mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) exposure could cause many acute and chronic respiratory diseases. In this study the protective effects of polysaccharide from Morchella esculenta (FMP-1) and its derivatives against PM 2.5 -induced inflammation were evaluated. By flow cytometry and ELISA analysis, sulfated polysaccharide SFMP-1 showed the best protective effect in reducing PM 2.5 -induced cell death, cell apoptosis and production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), which was accompanied by a diminished level in reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation caused by PM 2.5 in rat alveolar macrophage NR8383 cells. Furthermore, the mechanism was studied by immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR and western blotting. SFMP-1 could down-regulate the expression of inducible NO synthesis (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) at both mRNA and protein levels in PM 2.5 -treated cells. The PM 2.5 -induced phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was also reduced through suppressing nuclear translation of the NF-κB and inhibiting the degradation and phosphorylation of IκBα. These results indicated that SFMP-1 could protect NR8383 cells from PM 2.5 -induced inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB activation. Highlights • Polysaccharide from Morchella esculenta (FMP-1) was chemically modified to obtain sulfated and carboxymethylated derivatives. • Protection of FMP-1 and its derivatives against PM 2.5 -induced inflammation were comparatively investigated. • Sulfated polysaccharide SFMP-1 showed the best protective effect in PM 2.5 -treated alveolar macrophage NR8383 cells. • SFMP-1 could protect NR8383 cells from PM 2.5 -induced inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A new glucan EFSP-1 was firstly obtained from the seeds of Euryale ferox Salisb. • Structure of EFSP-1 was characterized by FT-IR, GC–MS and NMR. • EFSP-1 possessed high hypoglycemic activities in vitro. • EFSP-1 could improve insulin resistant through PI3K/Akt signal pathway in IR HepG2 cells. Abstract In this research, a polysaccharide fraction (EFSP-1) was obtained from the seeds of Euryale ferox Salisb. by DEAE sepharose FF and Superdex™ 75 gel chromatography. The average molecular weight (Mw) of EFSP-1 was 8.75 kDa. Monosaccharides composition analysis indicated that EFSP-1 was a glucan. The structure of EFSP-1 was characterized by analysis of FT-IR, GC–MS and NMR, which indicated that the backbone of EFSP-1 was mainly composed of (1→4)- α -D-Glc p with branches substituted at O-6 and terminated with T- α -D-Glc p. Moreover, the hypoglycemic effect of EFSP-1 was investigated by establishing insulin resistance HepG2 and 3T3-L1 cells. The results showed that EFSP-1 could increase glucose consumption by up-regulating the expression of GLUT-4 via activating PI3K/Akt signal pathway in IR cells. Hence, EFSP-1 could be a potential functional food to ameliorate insulin resistance for diabetes therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Our previous report showed that the novel polysaccharide SAP isolated from the fruiting bodies of Sarcodon aspratus induced Hela cells apoptosis via mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study we found that SAP enhanced immunostimulatory activities of RAW264.7 cells, which was characterized by increased the production of nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS), cytokines and phagocytic. However, SAP-induced macrophage activation was abolished when Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling was blocked by anti-TLR4 antibodies. Moreover, according to the Western blot analysis and use of specific inhibitors against the MAPKs (mitogen-activated protein kinases) and NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB), we speculated that SAP activated RAW264.7 cells through TLR4-mediated activation of NF-κB and MAPKs pathways. Thus, Sarcodon aspratus is a potential immunomodulator that can be used as healthcare food. Highlights • A polysaccharide isolated from the Sarcodon aspratus enhanced immunostimulatory activities of RAW264.7 cells. • SAP induced macrophage activation via TLR4/ROS activated MAPK and NF-κB pathway. • SAP has potential as a dietary supplement for immunomodulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Oxidative stress is considered to involve cell death in severe pulmonary diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Polysaccharide FMP-1 from Morchella esculenta can exert significant antioxidant activity. However, its effects on alveolar epithelial cells remain unperceived. Herein, the effects of FMP-1 against H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative damage in human alveolar epithelial A549 cells were investigated. FMP-1 could inhibit H 2 O 2 -induced cytochrome C and Caspase-3 release to prevent cell apoptosis via attenuation of MDA and ROS levels, and enhancement the enzymatic activities of SOD and T-AOC. Furthermore, the underlying molecular mechanisms were clarified. The phosphorylation of AKT and the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 were observed to be promoted by FMP-1 as well as the level of HO-1. These findings suggested that FMP-1 attenuate cellular oxidative stress through PI3K/AKT pathway, and FMP-1 could be explored as natural potential antioxidants to lower oxidative stress relevant to the progression of IPF. Highlights • Polysaccharide FMP-1 from Morchella esculenta could inhibit H 2 O 2 -induced cell apoptosis. • FMP-1 alleviated H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative stress in alveolar epithelial A549 cells. • FMP-1 exerted excellent protective effects through PI3K/AKT/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new polysaccharide fraction (CCPP-1) was obtained from Craterellus cornucopioides . CCPP-1 had an average molecular weight of 9.2 × 10 5  Da, which was mainly composed of mannose, glucose, xylose, arabinose, fructose in molar ratio of 0.7:0.05:0.18:1:0.05. Results of structural characterization revealed that the dominant linkage types of CCPP-1 were →3, 6)-Man p (1→, T-Ara f , →4, 6)-Man p (1→, →5)-Ara f (1→ and →3)-Ara f (1→. Interesting, in vitro antioxidant activities assays showed that CCPP-1 possessed strong scavenging abilities on DPPH and ABTS radicals. The oxidative hemolysis induced by AAPH in mice erythrocytes was effectively reversed by incubation with CCPP-1. CCPP-1 significantly prevented AAPH-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Moreover, CCPP-1 could significantly restore AAPH-induced increase of intracellular antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activities to normal level, as well as inhibit intracellular malondialdehyde (MDA) formation. Therefore, CCPP-1 could protect against AAPH-induced oxidative-stress in erythrocytes, which would be explored as naturally potential antioxidant agent applied in food and cosmetic fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the structural features, in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of a heteropolysaccharide from the fruiting bodies of Morchella esculenta (FMP-1). FMP-1 had an average molecular weight of 4.7 × 10 3  Da and consisted of mannose, glucose and galactose. By methylation and NMR analysis, the backbone of FMP-1 was deduced to be made up of 1,4-linked Glc p and 1,6-linked Gal p . Hydroxyl, DPPH and superoxide radicals could be efficiently scavenged by FMP-1, with IC 50 values of 74.26, 119.32 and 161.49 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, FMP-1 could significantly protect zebrafish embryos against AAPH-induced oxidative damage. Decrease in malformations and mortalities was observed along with the reduction of ROS production, NO production and cell death. The protective effects were by decreasing MDA content and increasing SOD, CAT and GSH-Px levels. The current work provided a good suggestion of the potential utilization of FMP-1 as an attractive natural antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, lycopene-loaded nanofibers were successfully fabricated by electrospinning of oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions stabilized by whey protein isolate-polysaccharide TLH-3 (WPI–TLH-3) complexes. The lycopene encapsulated in the emulsion-based nanofibers exhibited enhanced photostability and thermostability, and achieved improved targeted small intestine-specific release. The release of lycopene from the nanofibers followed Fickian diffusion mechanism in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and first-order model in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) with the enhanced release rates. The bioaccessibility and cellular uptake efficiency of lycopene in micelles by Caco-2 cells after in vitro digestion were significantly improved. The intestinal membrane permeability and transmembrane transport efficiency of lycopene in micelles across Caco-2 cells monolayer were greatly elevated, thus promoting the effective absorption and intracellular antioxidant activity of lycopene. This work opens a potential approach for electrospinning of emulsions stabilized by protein–polysaccharide complexes as a novel delivery system for liposoluble nutrients with enhanced bioavailability in functional food industries. • Fabrication of lycopene-loaded nanofibers by electrospinning of O/W emulsions • Lycopene encapsulated exhibited enhanced photostability and thermostability. • The targeted small intestine-specific release of lycopene was achieved. • The bioaccessibility and cellular uptake efficiency of lycopene were improved. • The transport efficiency of lycopene across Caco-2 cells monolayer was elevated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work introduced an eco-friendly approach for the synthesis of sliver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with a water-soluble fraction of polysaccharides extracted from the roots of Astragalus membranaceus (AMWP). AMWP mediated AgNPs (AMWP-AgNPs) were successfully synthesized using 1.0 mM AgNO 3 and 1.25 mg/mL AMWP, reacting in aqueous environment at 25 °C for 6 h. The synthesized AMWP-AgNPs exhibited a broad surface plasmon resonance peak (SPR) at 445 nm in Ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) spectrum, which was characteristic of a poly-dispersed AMWP-AgNPs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis revealed that the AMWP-AgNPs were almost spherical shaped with an average diameter of 65.08 nm. The antibacterial activities of AMWP-AgNPs were assessed on four strains of clinical isolated multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria and four relative reference strains using modified agar disk diffusion and tetrazolium methods. All strains, especially the resistant strains, were significantly inhibited by AMWP-AgNPs at comparatively low concentration (minimum inhibition concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.032 to 0.063 mg/mL). Therefore, we propose that the AMWP-AgNPs will have a great potential in anti-MDR bacterial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the properties of oppositely charged natural polysaccharides, the polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) prepared with chitosan-related polycationic polyelectrolytes and cellulose-related polyanionic polyelectrolytes have been widely concerned for their potential applications as micro-drug-carriers for colon. However, the poor mechanical property of the PECs becomes the obstacle encountered in practical applications. This study investigated the effect of the cross-linking agent (sodium polyphosphate, PPS) on the performances of sodium cellulose sulfate −chitosan/water soluble chitosan (NaCS-CS/WSC) microcapsules. The results revealed that PPS could penetrate through the PEC film and form tighter interior structures compared with the microcapsules without the addition of cross-linking agent. The NaCS-CS microcapsules and NaCS-WSC microcapsules with or without PPS had distinct microstructures, which could be ascribed to the different physicochemical properties of CS and WSC. During the formation process, CS can be dissolved in water under acidic conditions, while WSC can be directly dissolved and protonated in acid-free aqueous providing NH 3 + groups quickly, which resulted in the microstructure’s difference. Further analysis showed the NaCS-CS-PPS microcapsules and NaCS-WSC-PPS microcapsules had lower swelling ratios due to their tighter interior microstructures that formed. The cross-linking agent had important effect on the total mass of PECs that produced; moreover, the decline of zeta potential of NaCS-CS-PPS microcapsules was lower than that of NaCS-CS microcapsules, similar trend was found in the NaCS-WSC-PPS microcapsules compared with NaCS-WSC microcapsules, indicating the PPS participated in the interactions and played a role in the microcapsules’ formation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ORP-1 can restore a healthy gut microbial population to handle age-related gut microbiota dysbiosis mainly by facilitating the proliferation and adhesion of intestinal probiotics L. acidophilus and B. bifidum in the colon to compete with pathogenic microbes E. coli for ecological niches. Furthermore, ORP-1 strengthened the intestinal structural integrity primarily by abolishing the aggravation of apoptosis and the age-associated alterations of TJ protein expression in intestine. [Display omitted] • ORP-1 is a novel bioactive component of edible fungus Oudemansiella raphanipes. • ORP-1 facilitates the adhesion of probiotics to compete with intestinal pathogenic. • ORP-1 abolishes the aggravation of apoptosis and heightened intestinal structural integrity. • ORP-1 strengthens intestinal barrier integrity by abolishing TJ proteins and mRNA expression. Age-associated increase in intestinal permeability is known to relate with gut microbiota dysbiosis and loss of epithelial tissue integrity. To improve healthy aging and prevent age-associated chronic disabilities, the protective potential of polysaccharides from Oudemansiella raphanipes (ORP-1) against age-associated intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction in d -galactose-induced Caco-2 cells monolayer was investigated. In-vitro results demonstrated that ORP-1 can restore a healthy gut microbial population to handle age-related gut microbiota dysbiosis mainly by facilitating the proliferation and adhesion of probiotics Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus) and Bifidobacterium bifidum (B. bifidum) to compete with intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) for ecological niches and nutrition. Meanwhile, ORP-1 strengthened the intestinal structural integrity primarily by abolishing the aggravation of apoptosis and the age-associated alterations of tight junction (TJ) proteins expression in intestine. These findings highlighted that ORP-1 could be a potential functional food component with preventive utility against age-associated intestinal barrier injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ultra-high pressure (UHP) could change the primary and spatial structure of polysaccharides. • UHP could enhance the content of uronic acid and the bioactivity of polysaccharides. • UHP treatment was more efficient than Sevage's method in removing protein. In this study, the changes of structure and bioactivity of polysaccharides from large leaf yellow tea (LYTP) were investigated under ultra-high pressure (UHP). Native yellow tea polysaccharide were treatmented with ultra-high pressure (200, 400 and 600 MPa) for 5 min to yield yellow tea polysaccharide including 200 MPa-LYTP, 400 MPa-LYTP and 600 MPa-LYTP. It was found that the monosaccharide composition of LYTP changed significantly after the ultra-high pressure treatment. The molecular weight (Mw) of 200 MPa-LYTP (from 563.6 to 11.7 kDa), 400 MPa-LYTP (from 372.2 to 11.8 kDa) and 600 MPa-LYTP (from 344 to 11.6 kDa) sharply decreased upon ultra-high pressure treatment compared with LYTP (771.5 kDa), coincidentally particle size was also significantly reduced for 200 MPa-LYTP (23.2 %), 400 MPa-LYTP (40.2 %) and 600 MPa-LYTP (25.9 %). The results of the scanning electron microscope showed that ultra-high pressure also changed the surface and spatial morphology of LYTP. LYTP after ultra-high pressure treatment (UHP-LYTP) could further ameliorate alcohol-induced liver injury in mice. In addition, UHP treatment can more efficiently remove protein than the Sevages method. With the gradual removal of protein, its hepatoprotective effect increased. These findings demonstrated that UHP treatment could change the primary structure and spatial structure of LYTP, increase the content of acidic polysaccharides, and improve its bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Response surface method (RSM) was employed to optimize the extraction conditions of polysaccharides from Rhizoma Panacis Majoris (the rhizomes of Panax japonicus C. A. Mey. var. major (Burk.) C. Y. Wu et K. M. Feng) (RPMP), a well-known Chinese traditional medicine. In order to obtain the optimal processing parameters, a three-variable Box–Behnken designs (BBD) were applied for experimental designs. RSM analysis indicated the good correspondence between experimental and predicted values, the optimal conditions for the yield of polysaccharides were as follows: the ultrasound time is 31.15 min, extraction temperature is 92.50 °C, and the ratio of water to raw material is 40 mL/g. The maximum value (13.87 ± 0.16%) of the yield of polysaccharides was obtained under these optimal conditions. The molecular weight ( M W ) was determined to be 1.48 × 10 5 (± 0.39%) Da by HPSEC-MALLS-RID chromatography system. FT-IR spectra demonstrated obvious characteristic peaks of polysaccharides. The antioxidant activities of RPMP were investigated including scavenging activity of hydrogen radicals, ABTS radicals, and free radicals of superoxide anion in vitro , and the results exhibited that RPMP had a good potential for antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharides from edible fungi usually exhibit many bioactivities. Our previous studies found that polysaccharide TLH-3 extracted from Tricholoma lobayense possessed noticeable antioxidant activity. To further explore its biological activities, the antioxidant and anti-aging activities of TLH-3 were evaluated in vitro and in vivo . The results of antioxidant activity in vitro showed that TLH-3 could enhance the cell viability, reduce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibit oxidative damage induced by tert -butylhydroperoxide ( t -BHP) in human embryonic lung fibroblasts (HELF) cells. The anti-aging capability was measured in d -galactose ( d -gal)-induced aged mice model, and the experimental data showed that TLH-3 significantly inhibited the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and raised the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in mice liver and serum ( p < 0.05). This study suggested that TLH-3 possessed apparent antioxidant and anti-aging activities and could be exploited as a potent dietary supplement to attenuate aging and prevent age-related diseases in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharide TLH-3 from the fruit body of Tricholoma lobayense Heim has shown outstanding antioxidant activity. In order to further explore it, TLH-3 was successfully modified to obtain a sulfated derivative (STLH-3). The chemical characteristics of STLH-3 and TLH-3 were determined by high performance liquid chromatography and infrared spectroscopy. Antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity of the samples were investigated in vitro . The antioxidant activities of STLH-3 were significantly improved. In the four indicators of antioxidant activity, the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and superoxide anion scavenging activities of STLH-3 have exceeded that of Vitamin C (Vc). The cytotoxicity against tumor cells including human cervical carcinoma cell line (HeLa) and human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) of STLH-3 was obviously stronger than that of TLH-3. STLH-3 had no toxic on human embryonic lung fibroblasts (HELF) cells. These results suggested that STLH-3 would be a promising bioactive macromolecule for potential applications in the field of health care and pharmaceutical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our previous studies have revealed that the Tricholoma lobayense polysaccharide TLH-3, which has an IC50 value for scavenging superoxide radicals comparable to that of Vitamin C (VC), could be prepared by hot water extraction and column chromatography. However, this method is tedious and inefficient. In this study, high-pressure homogenization (HPH) was used to extract polysaccharides from T. lobayense Heim. The yield of 17.3% using HPH was higher than the 12.3% yielded by traditional extraction. Moreover, the operation combined quaternary ammonium salt precipitation with ultrafiltration (QASP-UF) to purify the crude polysaccharides successfully, which provided a higher TLH-3′ yield, a larger separation volume, and a shorter purification time than that of column chromatography. The whole process for TLH-3′ preparation presented here exhibited significant advantages of quicker processing, low consumption, high efficiency, and flexible compatibility with follow-up studies. Based on a characterization of molecular weight, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis, and monosaccharide composition analysis, it can be concluded that TLH-3 and TLH-3′ are the same polysaccharide. Antioxidant activity was tested to prove that the TLH-3′ prepared in this study could scavenge DPPH and superoxide radicals, with IC50 values of 111.7 μg/mL and 160.0 μg/mL, respectively. Its outstanding antioxidant ability was comparable to that of ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our continuous exploration for bioactive polysaccharides, a novel polysaccharide FMP-2 was isolated and purified from the fruiting bodies of Morchella esculenta by alkali-assisted extraction. FMP-2 had an average molecular weight of 1.09 × 106 Da and contained mannose, glucuronic acid, glucose, galactose, and arabinose in a molar ratio of 4.10:0.22:1.00:5.75:0.44. The backbone of FMP-2 mainly consisted of 1,2- α -D-Gal p , 1,6- α -D-Gal p , and 1,4- α -D-Man p , with branches of 1,4,6- α -D-Man p and 1,2,6- α -D-Gal p. FMP-2 can stimulate phagocytosis and promote the secretion of NO, ROS, and cytokines like IL-6, IL-1 β , and TNF- α in RAW264.7 cells ranging from 25 to 400 μg/mL. FMP-2 had great repairing effect on the immune injury of zebrafish induced by chloramphenicol. The phagocytosis ability of zebrafish macrophages and the proliferation of neutrophils can be greatly enhanced by polysaccharide FMP-2 with concentrations from 50 to 200 μg/mL. These findings suggest that FMP-2 might be used as a potential immunomodulator in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Sulfated polysaccharides (F1, F2) from seaweed Corallina officinalis were isolated through anion-exchange column chromatography. Their chemical characteristics were determined by GC, HPLC, FT-IR and UV spectra. F1 and F2 contained only two monosaccharides, namely galactose and xylose. The antioxidant activities of F1, F2 and the de-sulfated polysaccharides (DF-1, DF-2) in vitro were investigated, including hydroxyl radicals scavenging effect, superoxide radical scavenging capacity, DPPH radical activity and reducing power. As expected, antioxidant assay showed that the two sulfated polysaccharide fractions (F1, F2) possessed considerable antioxidant properties and had more excellent abilities than de-sulfated polysaccharides (DF-1, DF-2). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aberrant microglia activation causes dopaminergic neuronal loss and nitric oxide produced by microglia plays a critical role in dopaminergic neuronal degeneration. However, no study has determined if GDNF protects dopaminergic neurons via inhibiting nitric oxide generation in Parkinson''s disease animal model. We report that GDNF not only reduces lipopolysaccharide-induced degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, suppresses microglia activation and nitric oxide generation, but also reverses the inhibition of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) in dopaminergic neurons and microglia. It suggests that the neuroprotective effect of GDNF on dopaminergic neurons may be related to its suppression of microglia activation-mediated nitric oxide via releasing the inhibition of PI3K in both neurons and microglia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Three polysaccharides PS1-1, PS1-2 and PS2-1 were successfully isolated from marine fungus Penicillium sp. F23-2 and the chemical characteristics were determined. Antioxidant properties of the three polysaccharides were evaluated by assays of various antioxidant in vitro systems. The results showed that PS1-1, PS1-2 and PS2-1 were primarily consisted of mannose with variable amounts of glucose and galactose, whereas their glucuronic acid contents, molecular weights and glycosidic linkage pattern were different. The three polysaccharides possessed good antioxidant properties, especially scavenging abilities on superoxide radicals and hydroxyl radicals. Moreover, PS2-1 showed higher antioxidant properties than PS1-1 and PS1-2 and should be explored as a potential antioxidant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim of the study: Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (ginseng) is a well-known Chinese herb often used in Asian countries for physical strength development. Ginseng polysaccharides are its active component and have a lot of pharmaceutical activities. However, anti-fatigue activity of ginseng polysaccharides has not yet been tested. The current study was designed to evaluate the anti-fatigue activity of ginseng polysaccharides (WGP) in an animal test for fatigue and compare the activities between the neutral (WGPN) and acidic (WGPA) portion in an attempt to determine whether the medicinal uses are supported by pharmacological effects. Materials and methods: WGP, WGPN and WGPA were orally administrated to mice once daily for 15 days. Anti-fatigue activity was assessed using the forced swim test (FST) and serum biochemical parameters were determined by autoanalyzer and commercially available kits. Results: While all compounds were found to reduce immobility in the FST, the effect of WGPA was demonstrated in lower doses compared with WGP and WGPN. Moreover, the FST-induced reduction in glucose (GLU) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and increase in creatine phosphokinase (CK), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, all indicators of fatigue, were inhibited by the corresponding doses of WGP, WGPN and WGPA. Conclusions: Ginseng polysaccharides have anti-fatigue activity, also reflected in the effects on the physiological markers for fatigue. The acidic polysaccharide is more potent than the neutral polysaccharide. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]