Antioxidative and hepatoprotective effects of the polysaccharides from Zizyphus jujube cv. Shaanbeitanzao

Effect of ultrasonic degradation on the physicochemical property, structure characterization, and bioactivity of Houttuynia cordata polysaccharide

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of ultrasonic degradation on Houttuynia cordata polysaccharide (HCP) physicochemical properties, structure characterization, and bioactivities. The results indicated that the ultrasonic degradation could significantly decrease HCP's molecular weight (MW). Total polysaccharide, uronic acid content, solubility, and thermal stability of HCP increased gradually with the increase in ultrasonication power. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) spectra proved that the primary structure of HCP had not been changed via ultrasonic degradation. Antioxidant and hypoglycemic activity results confirmed that ultrasonication enhanced the ability to scavenge free radicals (DPPH, ABTS, and OH) and improved α-glycosidase and α-amylase inhibition with the increase of ultrasonic power, which was increased in order HCP Collapse

Key Words

• Antioxidant activity
• Houttuynia cordata polysaccharide
• Hypoglycemic activity
• Polyphenols
• Structure characterization
• Ultrasonication

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MESH Headings

• Polysaccharides/chemistry
• Polysaccharides/pharmacology
• Houttuynia/chemistry
• alpha-Amylases/antagonists & inhibitors
• Ultrasonic Waves
• Antioxidants/chemistry
• Antioxidants/pharmacology
• Chemical Phenomena
• Molecular Weight
• Solubility
• Sonication
• Hypoglycemic Agents/chemistry
• Hypoglycemic Agents/pharmacology

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Affiliation(s)

Mohammed Mansour College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Food Science (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing & Quality Control, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Desert Research Center (DRC), Matariya, Cairo, Egypt
Ramy M Khoder College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
Lin Xiang College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Food Science (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing & Quality Control, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
Lan Lan Zhang College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Food Science (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing & Quality Control, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
Ahmed Taha Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agricultural, (Saba Basha), Alexandria University, Alexandria 21531, Egypt
Alsadig Yahya College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Food Science (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing & Quality Control, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
Ting Wu College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Food Science (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing & Quality Control, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
Hassan Barakat Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Food, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
Ibrahim Khalifa Food Technology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Benha University, Moshtohor, Toukh 13736, Egypt
Xu Xiaoyun College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Food Science (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing & Quality Control, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.

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Ziziphus jujube promotes fertility and pregnancy outcomes in Rat model of uterine adhesions

Introduction

The therapeutic efficacy of oral administration of Ziziphus jujube in the context of uterine adhesion (UA) and its impact on pregnancy outcomes was investigated.

Methods

In a rat UA model, Z. jujube was evaluated for its ability to mitigate injury-induced uterine adhesion bands, uterine shortening, and enhance endometrial regeneration. The assessment included analysis of gland numbers, uterine endometrial thickness, and regulation of inflammatory cytokines. The antioxidant properties of Z. jujube were also studied through antioxidant enzyme activity in uterine tissue homogenates. Fibrotic changes were examined through histological Trichrome staining and analysis of pro-fibrotic factors.

Results

Treatment with Z. jujube resulted in a significant reduction in uterine tissue fibrosis, as evidenced by histological evaluation and reduced expression of fibrotic markers. The intervention demonstrated positive outcomes in embryonic development, pregnancy rates, and pregnancy outcomes. Z. jujube effectively inhibited the formation of extra-uterine adhesion bands to internal organs. No toxicity-related morphological changes were observed in vital organs of the Z. Jujube-treated group.

Discussion

The results collectively indicate that Z. jujube is a safe and potent natural product with anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties, highlighting its potential as a novel candidate for clinical studies targeting UA in patients.

Antioxidant and antiaging activities of the polysaccharide ZJP-04M from Ziziphus jujuba in Caenorhabditis elegans

Aging is a social problem that people pay particular attention to. Oxidative stress is closely related to aging. Natural polysaccharides have numerous biological activities, and they show good application prospect in preventing oxidative stress and aging prospects. Herein, morphological analysis, molecular weight analysis, monosaccharide composition, methylation analysis, and NMR spectrum analysis were used to characterize the structure of ZJP-04M, an isolated homogeneous polysaccharide from the Ziziphus jujuba fruit. Results indicated that in ZJP-04M, the trunk chain was formed through the alternately connected homogalacturonan skeleton and rhamnogalacturonan-I domain and the branch chain was formed by arabinan and arabinogalactan. After feeding the polysaccharide to Caenorhabditis elegans, ZJP-04M was found to exert a certain paraquet-induced protective effect on the oxidative damage. Under normal conditions, ZJP-04M could significantly prolong the lifespan of C. elegans but exhibited no obvious effect on its reproductive capacity. We futher confirmed that ZJP-04M can play an antiaging role by regulating DAF-16. Based on these results, ZJP-04M can be used in antioxidation and antiaging applications.

Xiaobugan decoction prevents CCl4-induced acute liver injury by modulating gut microbiota and hepatic metabolism

BACKGROUND

The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification and metabolism. When its capacity to metabolize foreign substances is exceeded, it can lead to acute liver injury (ALI). Therefore, preventing liver disease and maintaining daily liver health are of utmost importance. Xiaobugan Decoction (XBGD), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, is recorded in 'Fuxingjue', is used in folk practice to promote liver health and regulate respiration. However, the hepatoprotective mechanisms of XBGD remained unclear.

PURPOSE

We investigated the prophylactic and hepatoprotective effects of XBGD and explored its related molecular mechanisms using a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced ALI.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

XBGD composition was determined using analytical methods, and the main compounds were identified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q-Exactive focus mass spectrum (UHPLC-QE-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). A CCl4-induced L02 cell injury model was employed to explore the protective effects of XBGD on liver cells, and a CCl4-induced ALI mouse model was used to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of XBGD.

RESULTS

Cellular experiments demonstrated that XBGD had a protective function against L02 cell damage by increasing cell viability, restoring alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and improving mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). In the mouse ALI model, XBGD prevented ALI by reducing ALT, AST, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels and inhibiting oxidative stress. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), immumohistochemical staining and western blotting results revealed that XBGD exerted hepatoprotective effects by reducing inflammatory responses and inhibiting cell apoptosis. Furthermore, 1H-NMR metabolomics indicated that XBGD regulates hepatic and intestinal metabolism, whereas 16S rDNA sequencing demonstrated the regulatory effects of XBGD on the gut microbiota. Correlation analysis highlighted the close relationship among gut microbiota, metabolites, and ALI indicators.

CONCLUSIONS

XBGD is a promising TCM for the prevention of CCl4-induced ALI via regulation of microbiota and metabolism. This study provides a new perspective on the development of hepatoprotective measures and the prevention of liver disease in daily life.

Effects of jujube (Ziziphus jujuba mill.) fruit extracts on oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis of rodent studies

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) fruit extracts on oxidative stress levels in rodent models. Animal studies meeting the inclusion criteria were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, and VIP Periodical Service Platform. The Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) risk-of-bias tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias in the included studies. A meta-analysis was performed based on the guidelines provided in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions (CHSRI) by using Stata 17.0 software. Nineteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Jujube fruit extracts significantly decreased the level of malonaldehyde (MDA) and increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Meanwhile, there was no significant improvement in the catalase (CAT) levels. In addition, there was considerable heterogeneity in the results of the meta-analysis. The results of the subgroup analysis indicated that the animal model, type of extracts, and source of target parameters may have contributed to the heterogeneity. Jujube fruit extracts are healthy and effective antioxidant dietary supplements that may be an effective adjunctive therapy for diseases in which oxidative stress is a major pathological factor. However, the overall methodological quality of the included studies was low, and additional research is warranted.

Effects of Jujube Powder on Growth Performance, Blood Biochemical Indices, and Intestinal Microbiota of Broiler

In total, 576 Cobb broilers were randomized into 6 treatment groups, with 8 replicates in each treatment group and 12 broilers in each replicate. Each treatment group was fed six different experimental diets containing 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% jujube powder. The group receiving 0% jujube powder was considered the blank control group. The experimental period was 42 days and was divided into two periods: starter (0-21 days) and finisher (22-42 days). Compared with the control group, the addition of 8% jujube powder significantly improved the ADG of broilers (p < 0.05), and 8% and 10% jujube powder significantly improved the total tract apparent digestibility of organic matter in broilers (p < 0.05). Adding 10% jujube powder significantly improved the apparent metabolic energy of broilers (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, 4-10% jujube powder significantly increased IgA, IgG, IgM, and sCD4 levels (p < 0.05) and T-AOC and SOD contents, and it reduced the MDA content in the serum of broilers (p < 0.05). In addition, the relative abundance of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Lactobacillus, and Romboutsia significantly increased in the broiler ileum, whereas that of Proteobacteria and Enterobacter decreased significantly (p < 0.05) when 8% jujube powder was added to the diet. The relative abundance of Proteobacteria, Bacteroides, and Faecalibacterium in the cecum increased significantly (p < 0.05), whereas that of Bacteroidetes decreased significantly (p < 0.05).

Enhancement of Oxidative Stability of Deep-Fried Sunflower Oil by Addition of Essential Oil of Amomum villosum Lour

In this study, the essential oil of the fruits of Amomum villosum Lour. (AVEO) was extracted through steam distillation and the components of the AVEO were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Additionally, the antioxidant capacity in vitro of the AVEO was gauged using radical scavenging activity (DPPH, ABTS, superoxide anion) and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays; the antioxidant effect of a certain concentration of AVEO is even comparable to 0.08 mg/mL of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Moreover, AVEO was applied to sunflower oil in a 30 h successive deep-frying experiment. Throughout the frying procedure, the sunflower oil-added antioxidant showed different degrees of benign changes in the physical and chemical parameters compared to the blank group, with 1 g/kg of AVEO being more consistent with 0.01 g/kg of tert-butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ), while 1.5 g/kg of essential oil revealed a stronger antioxidative capability. Meanwhile, the organoleptic characteristics of Chinese Maye, including its appearance, taste, flavor, and overall acceptability, were ameliorated when AVEO was added at 1.5 g/kg. Consequently, AVEO can be applied to substitute synthetic antioxidants as a natural antioxidant and flavoring agent during the deep-frying course of food.

Xiaochaihu Decoction Treatment of Chicken Colibacillosis by Improving Pulmonary Inflammation and Systemic Inflammation

Chicken colibacillosis-the most common disease of poultry, is caused mainly by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC). It has a major impact on the poultry industry worldwide. The present study was conducted to investigate the therapeutic effects of Xiaochaihu Decoction (XCHD) supplementation on clinical manifestation, organ index, bacterial load in organ and inflammatory mediators in a chicken model challenged with APEC. The results showed that all doses of XCHD significantly elevated the survival rate of infected chickens. XCHD improved the clinical signs of infected chickens, reduced the organ index, reduced the bacterial load of organs, and inhibited the secretion of serum and pulmonary inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF- α. Taken together, this study demonstrates that XCHD had protective effects on APEC-infected chickens. Its mechanism includes anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. These findings may contribute to the further study of the mechanism of the formula and the prevention or treatment of colibacillosis in poultry. The significance of this study is that it provides a certain theoretical basis for the replacement of antibiotics by XCHD.

A Homogalacturonan from Peel of Winter Jujube (Zizyphus jujuba Mill. cv. Dongzao): Characterization and Protective Effects against CCl4-Induced Liver Injury

A homogalacturonan pectin (HG, designated as WJP-F80) was extracted from the peel of winter jujube (Zizyphus jujuba Mill. Cv. Dongzao) and separated via ethanol-graded precipitation. The structural and conformational features were elucidated through HPAEC-PAD, GC-MS, 2D NMR, and HPSEC-MALLS studies. In vivo assessments were carried out to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of WJP-F80 against CCl₄-induced injury of mice. Results showed that WJP-F80 was a linear 1,4-α-galacturonan with partially methyl-esterified at O-6 of GalpA and occasionally acetylation. The Mw of WJP-F80 was determined as 45.3 kDa, the polydispersity was calculated as 1.56, and the Rg was measured as 22.7 nm in 0.1 M NaNO₃. The conformational analysis revealed that WJP-F80 exhibited as rigid stiff chain in low Mw range, while aggregation by self-assembly of HG chains lead to high Mw and random coil conformation. In vivo studies indicated that WJP-F80 can protect the livers of mice from acute injury induced via CCl₄ by decreasing the serum biochemical markers of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to normal levels. This work provides a theoretical basis for the value-added deep processing of winter jujube.

Anti-cancer Potential of Polysaccharide Extracted From Polygonatum sibiricum on HepG2 Cells via Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis

Polygonatum sibiricum is one of the most widely used traditional Chinese medicine in China. Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide (PSP) is the main functional component of Polygonatum sibiricum. In this study, a water-soluble polysaccharide (PSP-1) was first isolated from Polygonatum sibiricum with a molecular weight of 38.65 kDa. Structural analysis was performed via methylation and FT-IR spectroscopy analyses, which in combination with NMR spectroscopy, revealed that PSP-1 has a → 4-α-D-Glcp-1 → backbone with the substitution at O-6 with the β-D-Glcp-1 → residues. Furthermore, PSP-1 exhibited potent and concentration-dependent anticancer effects, inducing HepG2 cell apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle at the G1 phase. Moreover, PSP-1 also decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential, damaged the nucleus of HepG2 cells, and increased the activity of caspase-9 and−3 in the intrinsic apoptotic pathways to induce HepG2 cell apoptosis. To conclude, PSP-1 might be a good candidate for the treatment of liver cancer, and this work provides important information for understanding the relationship between structure and antitumor activity of PSP-1, which is relevant for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in clinic.

Optimized Extraction of cAMP From Jujube by Ultra-High Pressure Technology and the Anti-allergic Effect for Peanut Allergy Mouse

Jujube contains abundant cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). In contrast, the extraction technology of cAMP from jujube is still to be explored. In this study, the ultra-high pressure extraction (UHPE) conditions for obtaining the maximum cAMP yield from jujube were optimized. Orthogonal array design (OAD) was applied to evaluate the effects of three variables (pressure, pressure-holding time, and liquid-to-solid ratio) by UHPE on cAMP yield. The results showed that the optimal cAMP yield (1223.2 μg/g) was derived at 300 MPa, 20 min duration, and a liquid-to-solid ratio of 2.5 ml/g. In addition, as an important functional ingredient in jujube, cAMP has potential anti-allergic effect. To develop the functional characteristics of jujube, the effect of cAMP was characterized in vivo with the Balb/c mouse model of peanut allergy, which was established by subcutaneous injection of crude peanut protein extract (PN). The results showed that treatment with cAMP in PN-sensitized mice suppressed the lesions in jejunal tissues and allergic symptoms and restored spleen index. Meanwhile, cAMP treatment reduced serum levels of specific immunoglobulin E (IgE), histamine, as well as interleukin-4 (IL-4) and stimulated the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), whereas the serum levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) were not affected. Our results suggested that cAMP has an anti-allergic effect in PN-sensitized mice.

The Protective Effect of Polysaccharide SAFP from Sarcodon aspratus on Water Immersion and Restraint Stress-Induced Gastric Ulcer and Modulatory Effects on Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis

Sarcodon aspratus is a popular edible fungus for its tasty flavour and can be used as a dietary supplement for its functional substances. This study was conducted to evaluate the potential health benefits of Sarcodon aspratus polysaccharides (SAFP) on water immersion and restraint stress (WIRS)-induced gastric ulcer in rats. The results indicated that SAFP could decrease myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and plasma corticosterone levels, as well as enhance Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and Nitrate/nitrite (NOx) concentration in rats. Furthermore, SAFP significantly attenuated the stress damage, inflammation, pathological changes and gastric mucosal lesion in rats. Moreover, high-throughput pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA suggested that SAFP modulated the dysbiosis of gut microbiota by enhancing the relative abundance of probiotics, decreasing WIRS-triggered bacteria proliferation. In summary, these results provided the evidence that SAFP exerted a beneficial effect on a WIRS-induced gastric ulcer via blocking the TLR4 signaling pathway and activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Notably, SAFP could modulate the WIRS-induced dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Thus, SAFP might be explored as a natural gastric mucosal protective agent in the prevention of gastric ulcers and other related diseases in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Protective effects of curcumin/cyclodextrin polymer inclusion complex against hydrogen peroxide-induced LO2 cells damage

The objective of the present study was to explore the protective effects of the curcumin/cyclodextrin polymer (CUR/CDP) inclusion complex on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced LO2 cells damage. In this study, a H2O2-induced cells oxidative injury model was established to test the protective effects of the CUR/CDP inclusion complex. The cell viability of cells was detected by the thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The extracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) level were detected by assay kits. The cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was detected using the dichlorodihydrofluorescein (DCF) fluorescence assay. Western blotting analysis was conducted to assess the changes of phosphorylated-p53 and caspase-3. The results showed that 700 μM H2O2-treated LO2 cells for 3 h resulted in a significant decrease of cell viability to 53.00 ± 1.68%, which established the cell oxidative injury model. Cells treated with H2O2 led to a significant increase of extracellular LDH activity, MDA content, and ROS level, and decreased CAT activity. Treatment with CUR/CDP significantly reversed the changes of the above indicators. Moreover, CUR/CDP treatment at 20 and 40 μg/ml inhibited H2O2-induced increase in phosphorylated-p53 and caspase-3 expression, indicating that CUR/CDP suppressed cell apoptosis to alleviate liver injury. The results of those studies demonstrated that CUR/CDP had a protective effect on the oxidative damage of LO2 cells, and it could be developed as a new type of natural liver protection product to apply in the prevention of liver injury.

Brightening effect of Ziziphus jujuba (jujube) fruit extract on facial skin: A randomized, double-blind, clinical study

Ziziphus jujuba Mill. (jujube) is an invaluable medicinal plant in traditional and modern medicine. Jujube syrup is a complex of herbal extracts including Z. jujuba, Berberis vulgaris, Rhus coriaria, Prunus domestica, and Rosa damascene. The purpose of the present study was to formulate and investigate the efficacy and safety of jujube syrup on brightening of facial skin. In this randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical study, 46 participants consumed jujube syrup or placebo (23 in each group) twice a day for 8 weeks. The number of pigments, area of pigmentation, and physician's global assessment score (PGAS) were evaluated at baseline and after 8 weeks. The results showed the amounts of total phenolics and flavonoids were 81.97 ± 0.25 and 4.98 ± 1.04 mg/ml, respectively. The amounts of organic acids (gallic acid and chlorogenic acid) were quantified at 1140 ± 17.65 and 1520 ± 25.77 μg/ml, respectively. The amounts of total phenolic and flavonoids were stable under accelerated conditions. Eight weeks after treatment, the number of pigment counts reduced to 0.545 ± 0.307 compared to the placebo group. Moreover, the pigmented area and its percentages were significantly reduced to 0.556 ± 0.285 and 0.561 ± 0.288 in jujube syrup compared with placebo, respectively. Jujube syrup is efficient and safe for treating hyperpigmentation of the face.

Hypolipidemic Effects of Fermented Seaweed Extracts by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum

The fermentation of food materials with suitable probiotic strains is an effective way to improve biological activities. In this study, seaweed extracts were fermented by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and the hypolipidemic effects of the fermentation products were investigated. In vitro experiments suggested that fermented seaweed extracts have a high capacity for bile acid-binding. Additionally, a significant inhibitory effect against pancreatic lipase was observed. Furthermore, effects in hyperlipidemic mice were determined. Fermented seaweed extracts can alleviate lipid metabolism disorder. The administration of fermented seaweed extracts to mice showed decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Combined, these results suggest that fermented seaweed extracts perform a potent hypolipidemic action, thus providing an effective method for the preparation of functional foods to combat cardiovascular diseases.

Sequential Extraction, Characterization, and Analysis of Pumpkin Polysaccharides for Their Hypoglycemic Activities and Effects on Gut Microbiota in Mice

This study aimed to extract polysaccharides from pumpkin, characterize the structures of four of them, and evaluate their in vitro antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. Additionally, an animal model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was established and used to determine their hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects in vivo, and the underlying mechanisms related to the regulation of gut microbiota. Water-extracted crude pumpkin polysaccharides (W-CPPs), water extraction and alcohol precipitation crude pumpkin polysaccharides (WA-CPPs), deproteinized pumpkin polysaccharides (DPPs), and refined pumpkin polysaccharides (RPPs) were sequentially extracted and purified from pumpkin powder by hot water extraction, water extraction, and alcohol precipitation, deproteinization and DEAE-52 cellulose gel column, respectively. The extraction and purification methods had significant influence on the extraction yield, physicochemical properties, and in vitro antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. W-CCP and RPPs had a significant positive free radical-scavenging capacities and inhibitory activities on α-glucosidase and α-amylase. RPP-3 not only inhibited the uptake of glucose in Caco-2 monolayer but also promoted the excretion of glucose, while RPP-2 had no inhibitory effect. Animal experiment results showed that W-CPP treatment significantly improved the T2DM symptoms in mice, which included lowering of fasting blood glucose (FBG), reducing insulin resistance (IR), and lowering of blood lipid levels. It increased the diversity of intestinal flora and reduced the harmful flora of model mice, which included Clostridium, Thermoanaerobe, Symbiotic bacteria, Deinococcus, Vibrio haematococcus, Proteus gamma, and Corio. At the family level, W-CPP (1,200 mg/kg) treatment significantly reduced the abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae, and the Akkermanaceae of Verrucobacterium became a biomarker. Pumpkin polysaccharides reshaped the intestinal flora by reducing Erysipelotrichaceae and increasing Akkermansia abundance, thereby improving blood glucose and lipid metabolism in the T2DM mice. Our results suggest that W-CCP and RPP-3 possess strong antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities, and are potential candidates for food additives or natural medicines.

Ultrafine Jujube Powder Enhances the Infiltration of Immune Cells during Anti-PD-L1 Treatment against Murine Colon Adenocarcinoma

Simple Summary

While modulating gut microbiota using dietary intervention with natural nutrients has proven to be effective in improving the response rate of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the underpinning mechanism is poorly understood. This work demonstrates that the oral administration of ultrafine jujube powder (JP) let to a significant alteration of gut microbiota, an increased abundance of Clostridiales, including Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae, an elevated SCFA production, an intensified infiltration of CD8⁺ T cells to the tumor microenvironment, and a greatly improved response of anti-PD-L1 treatment against murine colon adenocarcinoma. Moreover, the size of the JP particles had a significant impact on the abovementioned attributes. The present study demonstrates that dietary intervention with nutrients is highly effective in modulating the gut microbiota for an improved immune checkpoint blockage therapy.

Abstract

Whereas dietary intervention with natural nutrients plays an important role in activating the immune response and holds unprecedented application potential, the underpinning mechanism is poorly understood. The present work was dedicated to comprehensively examine the effects of ultrafine jujube powder (JP) on the gut microbiota and, consequentially, the effects associated with the response rate to anti-PD-L1 treatment against murine colon adenocarcinoma. A murine colon adenocarcinoma model with anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy was established to evaluate how dietary interventions affect the microbiota. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the role of SCFAs in the immune response. Oral administration of JP greatly improves the response of anti-PD-L1 treatment against murine colon adenocarcinoma. Such an improvement is associated with the alteration of gut microbiota which leads to an increased abundance of Clostridiales, including Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae, an elevated SCFA production, and an intensified infiltration of CD8⁺ T cells to the tumor microenvironment. This work demonstrates that JP is particularly effective in modulating the gut microbiota for an improved immune checkpoint blockage therapy by boosting cytotoxic CD8⁺ T cells in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The experimental findings of the present study are helpful for the development of dietary intervention methods for cancer immunotherapy using natural nutrients.

Preparation Optimization, Characterization, and Antioxidant and Prebiotic Activities of Carboxymethylated Polysaccharides from Jujube

In this study, jujube polysaccharides (JP) were extracted from Jinsixiaozao, and carboxymethylated jujube polysaccharides (CMJP) were prepared. The optimum carboxymethylation conditions optimized by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) were as follows: the reaction temperature was 60°C, the concentration of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution was 2.8 mol/L, and the content of chloroacetic acid was 2.12% with a degree of substitution (DS) of 0.2275 ± 0.0108. Physicochemical characterizations and in vitro antioxidant and prebiotic activities of JP and CMJP were evaluated. Compared with unmodified JP, water solubility and viscosity were improved in CMJP. Chemical analysis revealed that CMJP was composed of Rha: Ara: Xyl: Glc: Gal = 0.18 : 9.09 : 0.45 : 0.36 : 0.98 with a molecular weight of 3.04 × 105 Da. The signals of carboxymethyl were observed at 1600, 1420, and 1328 cm−1 in FT-IR. In addition, CMJP showed obviously strong hydroxyl radical scavenging ability compared with JP and also exhibited stronger abilities than JP on the proliferation growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus strains. These results indicated that CMJP could be explored as a promising resource for the development of functional foods.

Immunoregulatory Effect of Acanthopanax trifoliatus (L.) Merr. Polysaccharide on T1DM Mice

Background

Acanthopanax trifoliatus (L.) Merr. is a medicinal plant found in Southeast Asia, and its young leaves and shoots are consumed as a vegetable. The main bioactive components of this herb are polysaccharides that have significant anti-diabetic effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunoregulatory effect of A. trifoliatus (L.) Merr. polysaccharide (ATMP) on a mouse model of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

Methods

The monosaccharide composition and mean molecular mass of ATMP were determined by HPLC and HPGPC. T1DM was induced in mice using STZ, and 35, 70 and 140mg/kg ATMP was administered daily via the intragastric route for six weeks. Untreated and metformin-treated positive control groups were also included. The body weight of the mice, food and water intake and fasting glucose levels were monitored throughout the 6-week regimen. Histological changes in the pancreas and spleen were analyzed by H&E staining. Oral glucose tolerance was evaluated with the appropriate test. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) mRNA and protein levels in the spleen were measured by quantitative real time PCR and Western blotting. IL-10, IFN-γ and insulin levels in the sera were determined by ELISA. The CD4⁺ and CD8⁺T cells in spleen tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

ATMP and metformin significantly decreased fasting blood glucose, and the food and water intake after 6 weeks of treatment. In contrast, serum insulin levels, glucose tolerance and body weight improved considerably in the high and medium-dose ATMP and metformin groups. T1DM was associated with pancreatic and splenic tissue damage. The high dose (140mg/kg) of ATMP reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells into the pancreas and restored the structure of islet β-cells in the diabetic mice. Consistent with this, 35, 70 and 140mg/kg ATMP increased IL-10 levels and decreased that of IFN-γ, thereby restoring the CD4⁺/CD8⁺ and Th1/Th2 cytokine ratio. At the molecular level, high-dose ATMP up-regulated PPARγ in the splenic cells.

Conclusion

ATMP exerts a hypoglycemic effect in diabetic mice by restoring the immune balance in the spleen.

A standardized extract of Ziziphus jujuba Mill protects against adriamycin-induced liver, heart, and brain toxicity: An oxidative stress and biochemical approach

Due to the antioxidant effects of the Ziziphus jujuba Mill (Z. jujuba), we investigated the liver, heart, and brain-protective effects of this herb against toxicity induced by adriamycin (ADR). In this study, Wistar rats were divided into 1) control, 2) ADR and 3, 4, and 5) treated groups orally administrated three doses of Z. jujuba hydroalcoholic extract for 1 month. The liver, heart, and brain were removed for evaluation of the oxidative markers. Blood samples were evaluated to determine the levels of Lactate dehydrogenase, total and direct bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, Aspartate transaminase, and Alanine aminotransferase. Administration of Z. jujuba significantly decreased the biochemical enzymes compared to the ADR. Oxidative condition in treated rats with different doses of Z. jujuba was improved compared to the ADR group. Z. jujuba could decrease the oxidative injury through invigoration of the tissues antioxidant system. The mentioned hepatic and cardiac parameters levels improved during extract administration. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In the first stage, our findings and other supplementary works have shown that administration of jujube extract has prevented the effects of histotoxicity caused by adriamycin, so it seems that in the next stage, the effects of this herbal plant on patients with tissue toxicity caused by adriamycin should be evaluated and if the results are positive in pharmacological studies, it should be used as a complementary drug in the treatment of these patients.

Characterization of the antioxidative polysaccharides from Ziziphus jujube cv. Goutouzao and its tumor-inhibitory effects on human colorectal carcinoma LoVo cells via immunocyte activation

Colorectal cancer, the most common malignancy in Asian and west world, is listed as the fourth lethal neoplastic disease with increasing incidence worldwide. Recently, Ziziphus jujube were reported with hepatoprotective, antihypertensive, and hypoglycemic functions. The polysaccharides from Ziziphus jujube was considered as the main component for these bioactivities. In this study, polysaccharides from Ziziphus jujube cv. Goutouzao (GZSP) was comprehensively investigated, and characterized as a heteropolysaccharide with antioxidant activity. Besides, it can stimulate the viability of immune cells RAW 264.7, which in turn inhibited the proliferation of colorectal carcinoma cells (LoVo) by inducing apoptosis, arresting cell cycle in G0/G1, and increasing intracellular ROS, as demonstrated by Flow Cytometric analyses. The results suggest that, different from chemotherapeutic modalities, GZSP can exert antitumor effects by activating immune reaction, providing more evidence for the development of GZSP-based functional foods and anticancer drugs serving as human colon cancer prevention. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Natural products from medicinal and edible plant are great sources of phytochemicals beneficial to human health, such as tea polyphenols, carotenoids, and phytosterols, etc. In this study, GZSP, the polysaccharides from a well-received fruit, Ziziphus jujube cv. Goutouzao, has been comprehensively investigated. The results show that GZSP fights against free radicals commonly found in human circulation, a property that enables it to be used as an antioxidant food additive with jujube flavor. More importantly, GZSP impedes neoplastic progression by activating immune response, as evidenced by the inhibition of colorectal carcinoma (LoVo) cells. Comparing with chemotherapies usually imposing cytotoxicity on normal tissues, natural product GZSP is able to exert the antiproliferative effects on carcinoma cells with minimal side-effects. Therefore, GZSP-based functional foods and anticancer drugs with the purpose of preventing human colon cancer formation are promising to be developed.

Structural characterization of phosphorylated Pleurotus ostreatus polysaccharide and its hepatoprotective effect on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in mice

This study aimed to explore the basic structural features of phosphorylated Pleurotus ostreatus polysaccharide (PPOP) and study the protective effect of PPOP on liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride in male Kunming mice. The phosphorylated polysaccharide was prepared from the natural polysaccharide extracted from Pleurotus ostreatus (POP). The structures of PPOP and POP were characterized by FT-IR, ESEM spectroscopy, and Congo red test. Chemical composition analysis revealed that PPOP was mainly composed of rhamnose, galacturonic acid, and xylose in a molar ratio of 0.10: 1.98: 1.00. Structural analysis indicated that PPOP had multi-strand structure and the absorption peaks of PO and P-O-C. Furthermore, animal experiments showed that the hepatoprotective effect of PPOP against liver injury was reflected by decreasing the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total cholesterol, trilaurin, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the serum, increasing the content of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and albumin in blood, reducing the content of malondialdehyde and promoting the activity of antioxidant enzymes in liver. PPOP exhibited stronger hepatoprotective effect and antioxidant activity in vivo than POP. The final results indicated that PPOP could be used in the treatment of chemical-induced hepatotoxicity based on the above biological research.

Traditional fruits of South India: Bioactive components and their potential health implications in chronic diseases

Fruits are colorful, flavorful, and nutritious components and play an important role for the vital health and maintenance of our body. Experimental evidences suggested that fruits contain various bioactive constituents including flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, and micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Because of these, fruits are receiving greater attention to treat and/or control various health complications such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular disease, immune system decline, and certain neurological disorders. Experimental evidences from various in vitro and in vivo imply that fruit extracts and/or isolated bioactive compounds are associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. Therefore, fruits have the potential to be converted into functional foods as well as pharmaceuticals to prevent or/and treat several chronic complications. In the present article, we review current knowledge about the bioactivities and health benefits of selected Indian fruits for the treatment/management of the chronic health complications in humans. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This review provides practical information about how best to take advantage of the bioactive compounds and health implications of the South Indian fruits like Bael, Jujube, Cotton Candy Berry, and Manilla Tamarind as a potential source of functional and nutritive compounds. It aims at emphasizing the most recent findings on biological effects of major groups of fruits like Bael, Jujube, Cotton Candy Berry, and Manilla Tamarind and their major components, their medical interest, potential drug interaction, notably for human nutrition, health benefits, and therapeutic impacts.

Ziziphus jujube ameliorated cavernosal oxidative stress and fibrotic processes in cavernous nerve injury-induced erectile dysfunction in a rat model

The aim of this study was to investigate potential antioxidant and antifibrotic effects of Ziziphus jujube (ZJ) in a cavernosal nerve injury (CNI)-induced erectile dysfunction (ED) rat model. Forty-eight male rats were assigned to six-sized groups as group 1: sham-operated; group 2: sham-operated + low-dose ZJ (200 mg/kg); group 3: sham-operated + high-dose ZJ (400 mg/kg); group 4: CNI + distilled water; group 5: CNI + low-dose ZJ; and group 6: CNI + high-dose ZJ. At the end of 2 weeks, intracardiac blood was taken and rats were sacrificed. For biochemical analysis, cavernosal transforming growth factor-beta-1, collagen type I and type 3, fibronectin, α and β actin were examined in plasma and cavernosa. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA) and prolidase levels were measured in serum to evaluate antioxidant effect of ZJ. Histopathological examination of tissues revealed that highest fibrosis rate was in group 4 (66.84%). Collagen 1 and 3, alpha and beta actin, fibronectin levels were significantly different among groups (p < .05). Differences between plasma SOD, CAT, MDA and prolidase were also significant among those groups (p < .05). In this study, antioxidant and antifibrotic effects of ZJ were determined in the corporal tissue after CNI. It is thought that ZJ may be beneficial on ED patients especially after radical pelvic surgeries.

Resource, chemical structure and activity of natural polysaccharides against alcoholic liver damages

Many natural polysaccharides from bio-resources hold advantages of multi-functions, high efficiency, non-toxicity or low side effect, and have strong potentials in protection against alcoholic liver damages. This review summarized the bio-resources, chemical and structural characteristics of natural polysaccharides with potentials in inhibition against alcoholic liver damages, and also emphasized knowledge on correlations between their chemical structure and function. Approximately 95 species were confirmed in generation of hepatoprotective polysaccharides. Products as crude polysaccharides originated from 17 species were sum up despite the indetermination of their accurate structure. Additional four polysaccharides were described for their known chemical structures. Possible roles of hepatoprotective polysaccharides were provided with evidence on antioxidant promotion, lipids regulation, apoptosis inhibition and anti-inflammation, as well as confirmations in immune enhancement, iron removal and anti-fibrosis when currently treated against the alcoholic liver damages. To sum up, this overview could serve to guide development and utilization of natural hepatoprotective polysaccharides.

Decaisnea insignis Seed Oil Inhibits Trimethylamine-N-oxide Formation and Remodels Intestinal Microbiota to Alleviate Liver Dysfunction in l-Carnitine Feeding Mice

Elevated circulating level of the intestinal microbiota-derived l-carnitine metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) has recently been linked to many chronic diseases. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of omega-7-enriched Decaisnea insignis seed oil (DISO) on reducing TMAO formation to prevent the l-carnitine-induced hepatic damage in mice. Feeding of mice with 3% l-carnitine in drinking water clearly increased the serum and urinary levels of TMAO (p < 0.05 vs Normal), whereas the serum and urinary TMAO formation was sharply reduced by DISO administration (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, DISO resulted in strong inhibition against the elevation of hepatic injury marker (AST, ALT, and ALP) activities and dyslipidemia (TC, TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C), as well as liver inflammatory cytokine (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and TNF-β) release in l-carnitine-fed mice (p < 0.05). As revealed by 16S rDNA gene sequencing, DISO significantly inhibited the l-carnitine-induced elevations in the abundance of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Erysipelotrichaceae and the increases in the proportion of Lactobacillus and Akkermansia, revealing that DISO attenuated the l-carnitine-caused gut dysbiosis. These findings suggested that DISO could alleviate liver dysfunction in l-carnitine-fed mice, which might be due to the protection against TMAO formation by modulating the gut microbiota.

Bioactive exopolysaccharide from Neopestalotiopsis sp. strain SKE15: Production, characterization and optimization

Fungal exopolysaccharides are powerful resources of medicinal applications. Neopestalotiopsis sp. SKE15 was isolated and identified according to phenotypical and genotypical analyses (GenBank Accession No. MG649986). The exopolysaccharide (EPS) was produced by cultivation of mycelia in broth culture and extracted. The production was optimized to 2.02 g/l after selection of agitation, temperature, FeSO₄ and K₂HPO₄ concentrations as the most influencing factors using Placket-Burman design and then by applying response surface methodology. Analytical Tools showed that the EPS is composed of a polysaccharide (1.5-2.1 × 10⁶ Da) and its probable low molecular weight derivatives, in a wide range of chain lengths, among them an oligosaccharide of about 1970 Da was dominant. GC-MS (Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) analysis revealed the EPS was mainly constructed from d-glucose, sorbitol and D-galactose. The EPS showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity assays showed strong antioxidant activity of the EPS. A challenge with three different cancerous cell lines showed cytotoxic activity of the EPS at final concentration of 100 and 200 μg/ml. Further investigation on medicinal applications of the biopolymer is promising.

Optimization of Ultrasonic-Microwave Assisted Extraction and Hepatoprotective Activities of Polysaccharides from Trametes orientalis

Ultrasonic-microwave assisted extraction (UMAE) of Trametes orientalis polysaccharides was optimized by response surface methodology. Hepatoprotective effects of a purified T. orientalis polysaccharide (TOP-2) were evaluated by alcohol-induced liver injury model mice. The optimal UMAE parameters were indicated as below: ratio of water to raw material 28 mL/g, microwave power 114 W, extraction time 11 min. The polysaccharides yield was 7.52 ± 0.12%, which was well consistent with the predicted value of 7.54%. Pre-treatment with TOP-2 effectively increased the liver index and spleen index in alcohol-treated mice. The elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels of mice after alcohol exposure were inhibited by TOP-2 administration. The liver tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels have decreased significantly as a result of alcohol exposure, while pre-treatment with TOP-2 could mitigate these consequences. Furthermore, pre-treatment with TOP-2 could efficiently boost the superoxidase dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, and observably constrain the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. The findings suggest that TOP-2 might be useful for alleviating the alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.

Structural characteristics and hepatoprotective potential of Aralia elata root bark polysaccharides and their effects on SCFAs produced by intestinal flora metabolism

The structural characteristics of the polysaccharides from Aralia elata root barks (AERP) were systematically investigated by FT-IR, HPSEC-ELSD and colorimetric methods as well as by GCMS based monosaccharide compositions, Smith degradations, and methylation analysis. The result showed average molecular weights of AERP were between 42.7 kDa and 93.9 kDa. AERP was composed of Ara, Rha, GlcA, Man, Glc, and Gal in a molar ratio of 22.2: 10.3: 8.1: 32.7: 5.7: 21.2 along with a small number of sulfate (3.38%) and acetyl (4.87%) groups. The abundant glycosidic linkages of Man, Ara, Gal, and Rha were observed as more than 90% of all the monosaccharides detected. Studies to evaluate hepatoprotective potentials of AERP showed that they had potent hepatoprotective effects in vivo in carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver injury (CIALI) in mice by histopathological evaluation, biochemical examinations and ELISA assays. GCMS was further used to determine the effects of AERP on the chemical profiles of nine common short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by intestinal flora metabolism in CIALI mice. These findings not only provide novel insights into the pharmacological actions of AERP on the protection from CIALI in mice, but they also demonstrate that determining SCFA profiles by targeted GC-MS metabolomics is an effective technique to investigate the molecular mechanisms of the effects of plant polysaccharides on intestinal flora metabolism.

Extraction, purification, characterization and antioxidant activities of polysaccharides from Zizyphus jujuba cv. Linzexiaozao

The extraction process, purification and characterization analyses of polysaccharides (LZJP) in Ziziphus jujuba planted in Linze County, Gansu Province were investigated, respectively. The results showed a maximum polysaccharide yield of 5.72% was achieved at a solid/liquid ratio of 1:20 g/mL for 90 min at 80 °C. Two homogenous acidic polysaccharides (LZJP3 and LZJP4) were purified successively by DEAE-52 cellulose and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography. LZJP3 is composed of one polymer with galactose while LZJP4 is made up of two different kinds of polymers with xylose and glucose by size-exclusion chromatograph combined with multi-angle laser photometer (HPSEC-LLS) and gas chromatography (GC) analysis. LZJP3 and LZJP4 were β-pyran polysaccharides with a large number of molecular globular aggregates by FT-IR (Fourier-transform infrared) and AFM (Atomic force microscopy) analysis, and the surface morphology exhibited smooth and filamentous staggered extension in the form of rod-like aggregation with SEM (Scanning electron microscopy) determination. Meanwhile, LZJP3 and LZJP4 exhibited antioxidant activities against DPPH, hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide radical and stronger reducing power in vitro with the concentration increasing. The results indicated that LZJPs were worthy of being developed further as a natural antioxidant in food and medicine industries.

Comparative investigation for hypoglycemic effects of polysaccharides from four substitutes of Lonicera japonica in Chinese medicine

The polysaccharide fractions were obtained from flower buds of the four substitutes of Lonicera japonica, L. macranthoides (LMPB), L. hypoglauca (LHPB), L. fulvotomentosa (LFPB) and L. confuse (LCPB), and their hypoglycemic effects were investigated. In study, streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats were orally administrated once daily with LMPB, LHPB, LFPB and LCPB (each 800 mg/kg) for 42 days. Reduction for food and water intake (p < 0.05, p < 0.01) and levels of sugar and insulin (p < 0.01, p < 0.05) in blood, as well as elevation for contents of liver and skeletal muscle glycogen (p < 0.05) and concentrations of hepatic pyruvate kinase and hexokinase (p < 0.01, p < 0.05) were observed. Together with significant decline of total cholesterol (TC, 45.8 51.0%, p < 0.05), total triglyceride (TG, 50.6-53.8%, p < 0.01), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterin (LDL-C, 71.2-76.3%, p < 0.01) and very-low-density lipoprotein-cholesterin (VLDL-C, 45.2-50.0%, p < 0.01), the significant rise of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterin (HDL-C, 21.6-24.3%, p < 0.05) were also demonstrated. Consequently, the four polysaccharide fractions displayed notable hypoglycemic effects, similar to that of the polysaccharide fraction from L. japonica (LJP), so that they can be also considered as ingredients of functional foods for type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Preliminary Characterization, Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activities of Polysaccharides from Taishan Pinus massoniana Pollen

The objectives of the present study were to characterize the chemical composition, antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effect of the polysaccharides from Taishan Pinus massoniana pollen (TPPPS). HPLC analysis showed that TPPPS was an acidic heteropolysaccharide with glucose and arabinose as the main component monosaccharides (79.6%, molar percentage). Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis indicated that the spectra of TPPPS displayed infrared absorption peaks characteristic of polysaccharides. In in vitro assays TPPPS exhibited different degrees of dose-dependent antioxidant activities , and this was further verified by suppression of CCl₄-induced oxidative stress in the liver with three tested doses of TPPPS (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg bw) in rats. Pretreatment with TPPPS significantly decreased the levels of alanine aminotransferase (AST), aspartate aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) against CCl₄ injuries, and elevated the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Histopathological observation further confirmed that TPPPS could protect the liver tissues from CCl₄-induced histological alternation. These results suggest that TPPPS has strong antioxidant activities and significant protective effect against acute hepatotoxicity induced by CCl₄. The hepatoprotective effect may partly be related to its free radical scavenging effect, increasing antioxidant activity and inhibiting lipid peroxidation.

Extraction and physicochemical properties of polysaccharides from Ziziphus Jujuba cv. Muzao by ultrasound-assisted aqueous two-phase extraction

In this paper, ultrasound-assisted aqueous two-phase extraction (UAATPE) performed via a one-step procedure was applied to extract polysaccharides from Ziziphus Jujuba cv. Muzao. Using an ethanol/ammonium sulfate system as a multiphase solvent, effects of UAATPE on extraction of ZMP, such as solvent-to-material ratio, composition of aqueous two-phase system, and extraction time and temperature, were investigated using response surface methodology on basis of results of single-factor experiment. The final optimal conditions were ATPS composition: 29% ethanol and 15% (NH₄)₂SO₄, extraction time: 38min, extraction temperature: 48°C, solvent-to-material ratio: 30, and microwave power: 70W. Under these conditions, the experimental extraction yield was 8.18%. Chemical analysis revealed that ZMP were composed of rhamnose, arabinose, xylose, mannose, glucose, galactose, and galacturonic acid, at a ratio of 1.46:2.47:2.27:1.12:1.00:1.57:5.40, respectively. The structures were also characterized with UV, FTIR, and SEM. The DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities showed ZMP had moderately antioxidant activity.