Inulin, a flexible oligosaccharide I: Review of its physicochemical characteristics

Structural analysis of (2 → 1)-β-d-fructofuranosides linked to a terminal difructose dianhydride III produced by Bacteroides endo-type inulin fructotransferase

The glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 91 inulin fructotransferase (IFTase) complexes from Bacteroides ovatus and B. caccae act as endo-type IFTases targeting inulin. However, their degradation mechanism remains unclear. Herein, the exact structure of the accumulated inulin-degradation product in a culture supernatant is revealed as linear oligo-(2 → 1)-β-d-fructofuranosides linked to difructose dianhydride III (DFA III) at the reducing end. Additionally, we developed a method to quantify endo-IFTase activity by measuring DFA III released from inulin after sequential treatment with endo-IFTase and GH32 β-d-fructofuranosidase. Using this approach, we investigated the effect of varying concentrations of endo-IFTase subunits 1 and 2 and found that an equimolar mixture of the two subunits exhibited the highest enzymatic activity, indicating that the active complex forms in a 1:1 ratio. The endo-IFTase accepts fructooligosaccharide DP7 (GF6) as the shortest substrate, suggesting that the complex recognizes the region between subsites +3 and - 3. This study provides insights into the understanding of inulin degradation by Bacteroides species and elucidates the molecular mechanisms underlying prebiotic effects of inulin.

Current state, challenges and future orientations of the applications of lactic acid bacteria exopolysaccharide in foods

In the quest for a balanced diet and better health, the global shift towards nutrient-dense foods highlights the multiple roles of lactic acid bacteria exopolysaccharides (LAB-EPS) in improving food quality and health. This paper offers a comprehensive survey of LAB-EPS, focusing on their classification, biosynthesis pathways and application in the food industry, from dairy products to bakery products and meat. It highlights the impact of LAB-EPS on the texture and sensory qualities of food. Despite their promising prospects, these polysaccharides face various application challenges in the food industry. These include variability in EPS production among LAB strains, complexity in structure-function relationships, and limited understanding of their health benefits. In order to address these issues, the review identifies and suggests future research directions to optimize the production of LAB-EPS, elucidating their health benefit mechanisms, and expanding their application scope. In summary, this review aims to contribute to advance innovation and progress in the food industry by developing healthier food options and deepening the understanding of LAB-EPS in promoting human health.

Microbial exopolysaccharides: Classification, biosynthetic pathway, industrial extraction and commercial production to unveil its bioprospection: A comprehensive review

Polysaccharides, found universally in all living-species, exhibit diverse biochemical structures and play crucial roles in microorganisms, animals, and plants to defend against pathogens, environmental stress and climate-changing. Microbial exopolysaccharides are essential for cell adhesion and stress resilience and using them has notable advantages over synthetic polysaccharides. Exopolysaccharides have versatile structures and physicochemical properties, used in food systems, therapeutics, cosmetics, agriculture, and polymer industries. Immense economic and infrastructural constraints hinder its widespread commercial use, necessitating a deeper understanding of metabolic-pathways amidst changing environmental climate that influences the biomass composition of EPS-producing wild-microbes. Green and sustainable extraction of EPS from microbes followed by commercial product development has still not been exploited comprehensively. Yield of EPS production vary from 0.1 to 3 g/g of cell weight, influenced by fermentation conditions. Economic barriers, including substrate and processing costs, limit commercial viability. Key biosynthetic pathways involve glycosyltransferases enzymes, whose regulatory network gaps and substrate specificity remain areas for optimization. Addressing these could enhance yields and lower production costs. Review illustrates various microbial-exopolysaccharides, influencing factors of production, and offer valuable insights on the bioplastic, biofuel, agri-bioproduct, and biomedicine. But their bioprospecting potential is yet to be exhaustively explored, along with their pros and cons nor documented comprehensively in scientific literature.

Inulin as a Biopolymer; Chemical Structure, Anticancer Effects, Nutraceutical Potential and Industrial Applications: A Comprehensive Review

Inulin is a versatile biopolymer that is non-digestible in the upper alimentary tract and acts as a bifidogenic prebiotic which selectively promotes gut health and modulates gut-organ axes through short-chain fatty acids and possibly yet-to-be-known interactions. Inulin usage as a fiber ingredient in food has been approved by the FDA since June 2018 and it is predicted that the universal inulin market demand will skyrocket in the near future because of its novel applications in health and diseases. This comprehensive review outlines the known applications of inulin in various disciplines ranging from medicine to industry, covering its benefits in gut health and diseases, metabolism, drug delivery, therapeutic pharmacology, nutrition, and the prebiotics industry. Furthermore, this review acknowledges the attention of researchers to knowledge gaps regarding the usages of inulin as a key modulator in the gut-organ axes.

Soluble fibres modulate dough rheology and gluten structure via hydrogen bond density and Flory-Huggins water interaction parameter

Soluble fibres are gaining increasing interest for functional food applications like bread, but their interaction with gluten and effects on dough rheology are not fully elucidated. This study hypothesized that soluble fibres influence gluten structure and dough rheology by acting as plasticizers and humectants. Plasticizing properties depend on the effective number of hydrogen bonding sites available in the fibre molecule (N OH,s ). Humectant properties are related to the water interaction parameter derived from analysis of the sorption behaviour. Oligo-fructoses, inulins, polydextrose and a glucose syrup were added individually and in mixtures to wheat dough to test the hypothesis. PCA and multi-linear regressions showed that the G' from temperature sweeps increased with an increase in the effective volume fraction of hydrogen bonding sites (Φ w , e f f ) in the solvent and in the water interaction parameter (χ eff ). The enhanced G' corresponded to a reduction in tan(δ), indicating an increased elastic behaviour. The parametersΦ w , e f f and χ eff also explained the changes in phase transitions during heating, i.e. Tonset and Tpeak of starch gelatinization (R2 > 0.9). Image analysis of the gluten network revealed that fibre structure and physico-chemical properties influenced the gluten network by altering branching rate, lacunarity, and protein strand width. Comparing inulins and polydextrose of similar molecular weights (Mw) indicated that interactions with gluten were influenced more by N OH,s than Mw. High Mw inulins, with a linear structure, promoted junctions in the gluten network through hydrogen bonds, and possibly phase separation in gluten-rich and inulin-rich phases. In contrast, the more hydrophilic, branched polydextrose reduced junction formation in the gluten network due to fewer N OH,s . This study provides new insights into the physico-chemical properties of soluble fibres and their role in wheat dough functionality.

Valorization of Onion By-Products Bioactive Compounds by Spray Drying Encapsulation Technique

The increasing interest in sustainability has driven research into the utilization of food by-products. Onion by-products, rich in bioactive compounds, represent a valuable resource for developing functional ingredients; however, they are prone to degradation due to environmental factors such as light, heat, and oxygen, leading to reduced efficacy and increased spoilage. Microencapsulation represents an effective approach to meet important goals in the formulation of food products such as the protection against degradation or the control of interactions with other ingredients that may modify and impair their functionality. This study explores the microencapsulation of flavonoid-rich onion by-product extract through spray drying, employing various wall materials (maltodextrin and a mixture of maltodextrin/trehalose and maltodextrin/trehalose/inulin) and their effect on the chemical and physical properties of the powders such as encapsulation efficiency, total flavonoids content, moisture content, water activity, bulk density, and bulk tapped density. The storage stability was further evaluated. This research supports waste reduction and suggests strategies for developing functional ingredients with extended shelf life and controlled release properties.

Rheological properties, microstructure, and encapsulation efficiency of inulin-type dietary fiber-based gelled emulsions at different concentrations

Gelled emulsion systems offer promising matrices for encapsulating bioactive compounds, enhancing stability, bioavailability, and controlled release. Incorporating inulin-type dietary fibers into emulsion-filled gels can innovate food products. This study explored the impact of inulin concentration (0-15 % w/w) on visual aspect, microstructure, particle size distribution, creaming stability, rheological behavior, and encapsulation efficiency of emulsions and gelled emulsions with clove bud oil rich in eugenol. Regardless of inulin concentration, systems exhibited evenly distributed small oil droplets, ensuring good creaming stability. Emulsions with 10-15 % inulin formed gels upon natural cooling to approximately 30 °C. Viscoelastic properties varied with inulin concentration, attributed to increased polymer chain approximation and mobility. Higher inulin content decreased the transition temperature (66 °C, 56 °C, and 54 °C for 10 %, 12.5 %, and 15 % inulin, respectively). While inulin did not enhance creaming stability, it acted as a physical barrier, improving encapsulation efficiency of eugenol to nearly 100 %. Inulin-based emulsion-filled gels offer potential for functional food development, enriching nutritional value and health benefits.

Valorization of Rosehip (Rosa canina L.) Pomace Using Unconventional Carbohydrate Carriers for Beverage Obtainment

Rosehip is of notable scientific interest due to its rich content of bioactives and its wide-ranging applications in nutrition, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The valorization of rosehip by-products, such as pomace, is highly significant for promoting sustainability. This study investigates the development of rosehip-based powders and beverage prototypes derived from both juice and pomace to evaluate the potential use of pomace in instant beverage design and compare it with juice-based formulations. Three matrices were evaluated: non-pasteurized and pasteurized juice, as well as non-pasteurized pomace preparations. Powders were produced by freeze- and spray drying using maltodextrin, inulin and unconventional carriers, i.e., palatinose and trehalose. The results demonstrated that carrier addition significantly influenced the physical and techno-functional properties of the powders, such as moisture content (below 10%), water activity (below 0.35), solubility (above 85%), and color indexes (yellowness and browning). The water absorption capacity varied with drying techniques, particularly for inulin-enriched samples, while the matrix type affected the ascorbic acid content. Non-pasteurized pomace powders exhibited a higher antioxidant capacity (67.7 mmol Trolox/100 g dry matter) than their juice counterparts (52.2 mmol Trolox/100 g dry matter), highlighting the potential of the pomace matrix for beverage production. Because of their favorable properties, spray-dried samples were also selected for reconstitution into prototype beverages, among which those obtained from pomace showed a higher antioxidant potential. An analysis of particle sizes, which ranged between 34 nm and 7363 nm, revealed potential interactions between the carrier and matrix, reflected in the distinct behavior of carrier-only samples. Both the carrier type and the matrix significantly contributed to the final properties of the beverages, providing valuable insights for the design of functional food products.

Classifying compounds as prebiotics - scientific perspectives and recommendations

Microbiomes provide key contributions to health and potentially important therapeutic targets. Conceived nearly 30 years ago, the prebiotic concept posits that targeted modulation of host microbial communities through the provision of selectively utilized growth substrates provides an effective approach to improving health. Although the basic tenets of this concept remain the same, it is timely to address certain challenges pertaining to prebiotics, including establishing that prebiotic-induced microbiota modulation causes the health outcome, determining which members within a complex microbial community directly utilize specific substrates in vivo and when those microbial effects sufficiently satisfy selectivity requirements, and clarification of the scientific principles on which the term 'prebiotic' is predicated to inspire proper use. In this Expert Recommendation, we provide a framework for the classification of compounds as prebiotics. We discuss ecological principles by which substrates modulate microbiomes and methodologies useful for characterizing such changes. We then propose statistical approaches that can be used to establish causal links between selective effects on the microbiome and health effects on the host, which can help address existing challenges. We use this information to provide the minimum criteria needed to classify compounds as prebiotics. Furthermore, communications to consumers and regulatory approaches to prebiotics worldwide are discussed.

Viability and stability evaluation of microencapsulated Lactobacillus reuteri in polysaccharide-based bionanocomposite

Microencapsulation is one of the most important methods to enhance the survival of bacteria when exposed to various harsh conditions. The present study evaluated the viability of L. reuteri ATCC 23272 microencapsulated in polysaccharide-based bionanocomposite. Inulin, polydextrose, and pectin were utilized as prebiotics, and magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) as reinforcing agent in the microgel structure. The composition of bionanocomposite was optimized using the simplex-lattice mixture method. Bionanocomposite optimal formulation was achieved by combining 91.6 % inulin and 8.4 % pectin in the presence of MgO NPs. L. reuteri prebiotic score (1.33) and E. coli (1.08), extrusion efficiency (97.57 %), viability after drying (99.37 %), and viability in simulated gastrointestinal conditions (SGI) (91.74 %) were obtained. Not using MgO NPs in the optimal composite structure caused a decrease of 2.14 log CFU/g in SGI. During 28 days of storage of bacteria at 4 and 25 °C, respectively, a reduction of 2.56 and 3.04 log CFU/g was observed for free cells compared to encapsulated cells. SEM, FTIR, and XRD analyses were performed on ingredients and microcapsules with and without bacteria. The results exhibited that the optimal bionanocomposite could be used as a beneficial encapsulation system to improve the performance of probiotics in harsh conditions.

Advances in understanding dietary fiber: Classification, structural characterization, modification, and gut microbiome interactions

Gut microbiota and their metabolites profoundly impact host physiology. Targeted modulation of gut microbiota has been a long-term interest in the scientific community. Numerous studies have investigated the feasibility of utilizing dietary fibers (DFs) to modulate gut microbiota and promote the production of health-beneficial bacterial metabolites. However, the complexity of fiber structures, microbiota composition, and their dynamic interactions have hindered the precise prediction of the impact of DF on the gut microbiome. We address this issue with a new perspective, focusing on the inherent chemical and structural complexity of DFs and their interaction with gut microbiota. The chemical and structural complexity of fibers was thoroughly elaborated, encompassing the fibers' molecular composition, polymorphism, mesoscopic structures, porosity, and particle size. Advanced characterization techniques to investigate fiber structural properties were discussed. Additionally, we examined the interactions between DFs and gut microbiota. Finally, we summarized processing techniques to modify fiber structures for improving the fermentability of DF by gut microbiota. The structure of fibers, such as their crystallinity, porosity, degree of branching, and pore wettability, significantly impacts their interactions with gut microbiota. These structural differences also substantially affect fiber's fermentability and capability to modulate the composition of gut microbiota. Conventional approaches are not capable of investigating complex fiber properties and their influences on the gut microbiome; therefore, it is of the essence to involve advanced material characterization techniques and artificial intelligence to unveil more comprehensive information on this topic.

Inulin biopolymer as a novel material for sustainable soil stabilization

The development of new urban areas necessitates building on increasingly scarce land, often overlaid on weak soil layers. Furthermore, climate change has exacerbated the extent of global arid lands, making it imperative to find sustainable soil stabilization and erosion mitigation methods. Thus, scientists have strived to find a plant-based biopolymer that favors several agricultural waste sources and provides high strength and durability for sustainable soil stabilization. This contribution is one of the first studies assessing the feasibility of using inulin to stabilize soil and mitigate erosion. Inulin has several agricultural waste sources, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional additives. Soil samples susceptible to wind erosion were collected from a dust-prone area in southwest Iran and treated with inulin at 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2% by weight. Their mechanical strength was evaluated using unconfined compressive strength tests and a penetrometer. In addition, wind tunnel tests (at 16 m/s) were performed to investigate inulin's wind erosion mitigation potential. The durability of treated samples was evaluated after ten wetting-drying cycles to assess the effect of environmental stressors. The results indicated a 40-fold increase in the unconfined compressive strength (up to 8 MPa) of the samples treated with 2% inulin and only 0.22% weight loss after ten wetting-drying cycles. SEM images revealed the formation of biopolymer-induced particle-to-particle bonds. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy indicated molecular (hydrogen) bonding of the biopolymer hydrogel-soil particles facilitated by the hydroxyl groups of inulin. The deterioration in stiffness and strength of treated samples was less noticeable after 3rd dry-wet cycle, indicating the durability of the samples. The durability of samples against wet-dry cycles was attributed to molecular bonding of soil-biopolymer hydrogel, as revealed by FTIR analysis.

A systematic review on Cynara cardunculus L.: bioactive compounds, nutritional properties and food-industry applications of a sustainable food

The cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L.), is a perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, and its cultivated species are widely used in the Mediterranean diet. This review provides an overview of cardoons' chemical composition, bioactive properties and multiple industrial and food applications. Thanks to its nutritional composition, the use of cardoon has increased in food, cosmetic and industrial sectors, such as the energy industry or in the production of paper pulp or bio-packaging. An application in the food industry has involved using of cardoon as a vegetable coagulant for gourmet cheeses-making, as the flowers are rich in aspartic proteases. Cardoon by-products are also rich in bioactive compounds with important health benefits. Most of these nutritional activities are due to the presence of phenolic compounds, minerals, inulin, fibre and sesquiterpene lactones with interesting antioxidant and antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, lipid-lowering, cytotoxic and anti-diabetic activities.

Inulin-based nanoparticles for targeted siRNA delivery in acute kidney injury

RNA interference has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to tackle acute kidney injury (AKI). Development of targeted delivery systems is highly desired for selective renal delivery of RNA and improved therapeutic outcomes in AKI. Inulin is a plant polysaccharide traditionally employed to measure glomerular filtration rate. Here, we describe the synthesis of inulin modified with α-cyclam-p-toluic acid (CPTA) to form a novel renal-targeted polymer, Inulin-CPTA (IC), which is capable of selective siRNA delivery to the injured kidneys. We show that conjugating CPTA to inulin imparts IC with targeting properties for cells that overexpress the C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4). Self-assembled IC/siRNA nanoparticles (polyplexes) demonstrated rapid accumulation in the injured kidneys with selective uptake and prolonged retention in injured renal tubules overexpressing the CXCR4 receptor. Tumor-suppressor protein p53 contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of AKI. siRNA-induced silencing of p53 has shown therapeutic potential in several preclinical studies, making it an important target in the treatment of AKI. Systemically administered nanoparticles formulated using IC and siRNA against p53 selectively accumulated in the injured kidneys and potently silenced p53 expression. Selective p53 knockdown led to positive therapeutic outcomes in mice with cisplatin-induced AKI, as seen by reduced tubular cell death, renal injury, inflammation, and overall improved renal function. These findings indicate that IC is a promising new carrier for renal-targeted delivery of RNA for the treatment of AKI.

Limited support for a direct connection between prebiotics and intestinal permeability - a systematic review

The intestinal barrier is a selective interface between the body´s external and the internal environment. Its layer of epithelial cells is joined together by tight junction proteins. In intestinal permeability (IP), the barrier is compromised, leading to increased translocation of luminal contents such as large molecules, toxins and even microorganisms. Numerous diseases including Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Coeliac disease (CD), autoimmune disorders, and diabetes are believed to be associated with IP. Dietary interventions, such as prebiotics, may improve the intestinal barrier. Prebiotics are non-digestible food compounds, that promote the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This systematic review assesses the connection between prebiotic usage and IP. PubMed and Trip were used to identify relevant studies conducted between 2010-2023. Only six studies were found, which all varied in the characteristics of the population, study design, and types of prebiotics interventions. Only one study showed a statistically significant effect of prebiotics on IP. Alteration of intestinal barrier function was measured by lactulose/mannitol, chromium-labelled Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (51Cr-EDTA), lactulose/rhamnose, and sucralose/erythritol excretion as well as zonulin and glucagon-like peptide 2 levels. Three studies also conducted gut microbiota assessment, and one of them showed statistically significant improvement of the gut microbiome. This study also reported a decrease in zonulin level. The main conclusion from this review is that there is a lack of human studies in this important field. Futhermore, large population studies and using standardized protocols, would be required to properly assess the impact of prebiotic intervention and improvement on IP.

The impact of high polymerization inulin on body weight reduction in high-fat diet-induced obese mice: correlation with cecal Akkermansia

Obesity presents a significant public health challenge, demanding effective dietary interventions. This study employed a high-fat diet-induced obesity mouse model to explore the impacts of inulin with different polymerization degrees on obesity management. Our analysis reveals that high-degree polymerization inulin (HDI) exhibited a significantly higher oil binding capacity and smaller particle size compared to low-degree polymerization inulin (LDI) (p < 0.05). HDI was more effective than LDI in mitigating body weight gain in high-diet induced obese mice, although neither LDI nor HDI affected blood sugar levels when compared to the high-fat diet control group (p < 0.05). Both HDI and LDI administrations reduced liver weight and enhanced brown adipose tissue thermogenesis compared to the high-fat diet induced control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, HDI suppressed hepatic lipogenesis, resulting in a further reduction in liver triglycerides compared to the high-fat diet-induced obese mice (p < 0.05). Notably, HDI improved gut health by enhancing intestinal morphology and modulating gut microbiota structure. HDI administration notably increased the relative abundance of cecal Akkermansia, a gut microbe associated with improved metabolic health, while LDI showed limited efficacy (p < 0.05 and p > 0.05, respectively). These findings underscore the importance of the structural properties of inulin in its potential to combat obesity and highlight the strategic use of inulin with varying polymerization degrees as a promising dietary approach for obesity management, particularly in its influence on gut microbiota composition and hepatic lipid metabolism regulation.

Polysaccharide-Based Composite Systems in Bone Tissue Engineering: A Review

In recent years, a growing demand for biomaterials has been observed, particularly for applications in bone regenerative medicine. Bone tissue engineering (BTE) aims to develop innovative materials and strategies for repairing and regenerating bone defects and injuries. Polysaccharides, due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability as well as bioactivity, have emerged as promising candidates for scaffolds or composite systems in BTE. Polymers combined with bioactive ceramics can support osteointegration. Calcium phosphate (CaP) ceramics can be a broad choice as an inorganic phase that stimulates the formation of new apatite layers. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of composite systems based on selected polysaccharides used in bone tissue engineering, highlighting their synthesis, properties and applications. Moreover, the applicability of the produced biocomposites has been analyzed, as well as new trends in modifying biomaterials and endowing them with new functionalizations. The effects of these composites on the mechanical properties, biocompatibility and osteoconductivity were critically analyzed. This article summarizes the latest manufacturing methods as well as new developments in polysaccharide-based biomaterials for bone and cartilage regeneration applications.

Modeling the effects of prebiotic interventions on luminal and mucosa-associated gut microbiota without and with Clostridium difficile challenge in vitro

Prebiotics can modulate the gut microbial community composition and function for improved (gut) health and increase resilience against infections. In vitro models of the gut facilitate the study of intervention effects on the gut microbial community relevant to health. The mucosa-associated gut microbiota, which thrives in close contact with the host plays a pivotal role in colonization resistance and health. Therefore, we here introduce the Mi-screen, an experimental approach implementing a 96-well plate equipped with a mucus agar layer for the additional culturing of mucosa-associated microbiota in vitro. In this study, we screened the effects of 2'-Fucosyllactose (2'-FL), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and inulin within a complex microbiota without and with infection with the C. difficile strains ATCC 43599 (Ribotype 001) or ATCC BAA-1870 (Ribotype 027). We analyzed the microbial community composition and short-chain fatty acid levels after 48 h of incubation. The inclusion of an additional substrate and surface in the form of the mucus agar layer allowed us to culture a microbial richness ranging between 100-160 in Chao index, with Shannon indices of 5-6 across culture conditions, indicative of a microbial diversity of physiological relevance. The mucus agar layer stimulated the growth of characteristic mucosa-associated bacteria such as Roseburia inulinovorans. The prebiotic interventions affected luminal and mucosal microbial communities cultured in vitro and stimulated short-chain fatty acid production. FOS, inulin and 2'-FL promoted the growth of Bifidobacterium adolescentis within the mucosa-associated microbiota cultured in vitro. When spiking the untreated conditions with pathogenic C. difficile, the strains thrived within the luminal and the mucosal sample types, whereas prebiotic treatments exhibited inhibitory effects on C. difficile growth and prevented colonization. In conclusion, the Mi-screen facilitates the screening of luminal and mucosa-associated gut microbial community dynamics in vitro and therefore fills an important gap in the field of in vitro modeling.

Effect of Intake of Bifidobacteria and Dietary Fiber on Resting Energy Expenditure: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Parallel-Group Comparison Study

Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis GCL2505 in combination with inulin has been shown to have several health benefits, including an improvement in the intestinal microbiota and a reduction in human visceral fat. Previous studies have suggested that the visceral fat reduction of GCL2505 and inulin may be achieved by improving daily energy expenditure. This parallel, placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study was conducted to evaluate the effects of GCL2505 and inulin on resting energy expenditure (REE) in overweight or mildly obese Japanese adults (n = 44). Participants ingested 1 × 1010 colony forming units of GCL2505 and 5.0 g of inulin daily for 4 weeks. REE score at week 4 was set as the primary endpoint. At week 4, the REE score of the GCL2505 and inulin group was significantly higher than that of the placebo group, with a difference of 84.4 kcal/day. In addition, fecal bifidobacteria counts were significantly increased in the GCL2505 and inulin group. Our results indicated that the intake of GCL2505 and inulin improves energy balance, which is known to be a major factor of obesity, by modulating the microbiota in the gut. This is the first report to demonstrate the effects of probiotics and dietary fiber on REE in humans.

The Influence of Technological Factors on the Structure and Chemical Composition of Tuberous Dahlia Roots Determined Using Vibrational Spectroscopy

This research investigated the structural and chemical modifications of Dahlia 'Kennemerland' across different technological conditions and throughout the vegetation period. Using FT-IR imaging, this study focused on the changes in the inulin, lignin, and suberin contents of tuberous roots. FT-IR maps were generated to visualize the distribution of these compounds across scanned areas, highlighting variations across cultivation methods and seasonal stages. The key compounds analyzed included inulin, lignin, and suberin, which were identified in different root zones. The results showed that inulin was distributed in all analyzed areas, predominantly in zone 1 (periderm), with a distribution that increased with forced cultivation, while lignin and suberin distributions varied with zone and season. Forced tuberous root lignin was detected in all four areas analyzed, in the fall accumulating mainly in area 4 and in suberin starting from summer until autumn. Based on the evaluation of the maps obtained by representing the area ratios of specific bands (inulin/lignin and inulin/suberin), we established where the inulin was present in the highest quantity and concluded that suberin was the constituent with the lowest concentration in tuberous Dahlia roots. These findings emphasize the influence of technological factors and seasonal changes on the biochemical makeup of tuberous Dahlia roots. This detailed biochemical mapping provides insights for optimizing Dahlia cultivation and storage for various industrial applications. This study concludes that FT-IR spectroscopy is an effective tool for monitoring and understanding the biochemical dynamics of Dahlia roots, aiding their agricultural and industrial utilization.

Effects of inulin with different polymerization degrees on the structural and gelation properties of potato protein

This study investigated the effect of inulin with different polymerization degrees (DP), including L-inulin (DP 2-6), M-inulin (DP 10-23) and H-inulin (DP 23-46), on the structural and gelation properties of potato protein isolate (PPI). Results revealed that textural properties (hardness, cohesiveness, springiness and chewiness) and water-holding capacity (WHC) of PPI-inulin composite gels were positively correlated with the inulin DP and addition content at 0-1.5% (w/v), but deteriorated at 2% due to phase separation. The addition of 1.5% H-inulin showed the most significant increment effects on the WHC (18.65%) and hardness (2.84 N) of PPI gel. Furthermore, M-/H-inulin were more effective in increasing the whiteness and surface hydrophobicity, as well as in strengthening hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions than L-inulin. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis and microstructural observation indicated that inulin with higher DP promoted more generation of β-sheet structures, and leading to the formation of stronger and finer network structures.

Inulin with different degrees of polymerization as a functional ingredient: Evaluation of flour, dough, and steamed bread characteristics during freezing

In the study, the effects of short-chain inulin (OP), natural inulin (OH), and long-chain inulin (OHP) at substitution levels of 3%, 6%, and 9%, as well as freezing of 0, 15, and 30 days, on the farinograph and extensograph characteristics of flour, the rheological properties, water distribution, and microstructure of dough, as well as the quality of the final steamed bread, were investigated. The findings revealed that inulin led to a reduction in the water absorption of the dough while increasing its stable time. Furthermore, inulin delayed the alteration of freezable water within the frozen dough. Notably, the addition of inulin resulted in a more cohesive and evenly arranged network structure within the frozen dough. Steamed bread supplemented with 6% OP, 6% OH, and 3% OHP consistently dislayed a higher specific volume and spread ratio. These findings offer valuable insights into the utilization of inulin in frozen wheat foods.

Immobilised Inulinase from Aspergillus niger for Fructose Syrup Production: An Optimisation Model

Fructose is a carbohydrate with essential applications in the food industry, mainly due to its high sweetness and low cost. The present investigation focused on optimising fructose production from commercial inulin using the enzymatic immobilisation method and applying the response surface methodology in a 12-run central composite design. The independent variables evaluated were the pH (-) and temperature (°C). The substrate consisted of a commercial inulin solution at a concentration of 1 g/L, while the catalyst consisted of the enzyme inulinase from Aspergillus niger (EC 232-802-3), immobilised in 2% m/v sodium alginate. A stirred vessel reactor was used for 90 min at 120 rpm, and quantification of reducing sugars was determined using DNS colorimetric and UV-Vis spectrophotometric methods at a 540 nm wavelength. After applying the response surface methodology, it was determined that the catalytic activity using the immobilisation method allows for a maximum total productivity of 16.4 mg/h under pH and temperature of 3.9 and 37 °C, respectively, with an efficiency of 96.4%. The immobilised enzymes' reusability and stability compared to free enzymes were evaluated, obtaining activity up to the fifth reuse cycle and showing significant advantages over the free catalyst.

Dietary fiber as a wide pillar of colorectal cancer prevention and adjuvant therapy

Colorectal cancer is the third most incident and second most lethal type of cancer worldwide. Lifestyle and dietary patterns are the key factors for higher disease development risk. The dietary fiber intake from fruits and vegetables, mainly formed by food hydrocolloids, can help to lower the incidence of this type of neoplasia. Different food polysaccharides have applications in anti-tumoral therapy, such as coadjuvant to mainstream drugs, carriage-like properties, or direct influence on tumoral cells. Some classes include inulin, β-glucans, pectins, fucoidans, alginates, mucilages, and gums. Therefore, it is fundamental to discuss colorectal cancer mechanisms and the roles played by different polysaccharides in intestinal health. Genetic, environmental, and immunological modulation of mutated pathways regarding colorectal cancer has been explored before. Microbial diversity, byproduct formation (primarily short-chain fatty acids), inflammatory profile control, and tumoral mutated pathways regulation are thoroughly explored mechanisms by which dietary fiber sources influence a healthy gut ambiance.

Quality characteristics of cereal-based foods enriched with different degree of polymerization inulin: A review

Vegetables, cereals and fruit are foods rich in fibre with beneficial and nutritional effects as their consumption reduces the onset of degenerative diseases, especially cardiovascular ones. Among fibres, inulin, oligofructose or fructooligosaccharide (FOS) are the best-studied. Inulin is a generic term to cover all linear β(2-1) fructans, with a variable degree of polymerization. In this review a better understanding of the importance of the degree of polymerization of inulin as a dietary fibre, functions, health benefits, classifications, types and its applications in the food industry was considered in different fortified foods. Inulin has been used to increase the nutritional and healthy properties of the product as a sweetener and as a substitute for fats and carbohydrates, improving the nutritional value and decreasing the glycemic index, with the advantage of not compromising taste and consistency of the product. Bifidogenic and prebiotic effects of inulin have been well established, inulin-type fructans are fermented by the colon to produce short-chain fatty acids, with important local and systemic actions. Addition of inulin with different degrees of polymerization to daily foods for the production of fortified pasta and bread was reviewed, and the impact on sensorial, technological and organoleptic characteristics even of gluten-free bread was also reported.

Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) By-Products in Food Applications: Functional and Biological Properties

Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus L.) is widely cultivated in the Mediterranean area and Italy is one of the largest producers. A great issue is represented by its high amount of by-product, mainly consisting of external bracts and stems, but also of residual leaves, stalks, roots, and seeds. Artichoke by-products are rich in nutrients (carbohydrates and proteins) and bioactive compounds (polyphenols and terpenes) and represent potential ingredients for foodstuffs, functional foods, and food supplements, due to their functional and biological properties. In fact, artichoke by-products' components exhibit many beneficial effects, such as dyspeptic, prebiotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiglycative, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, and hypolipidemic properties. Therefore, they can be considered potential food ingredients useful in reducing the risk of developing metabolic and age-related disorders. This work summarizes the economic and environmental impact of the recovery and valorization of artichoke by-products, focusing on rheological, physical, and biological properties of the different components present in each by-product and their different food applications.

Synthesis, characterization, and application of honey stabilized inulin nanoparticles as colon targeting drug delivery carrier

Inulin (INU) is a versatile natural polysaccharide primarily derived from chicory roots. INU possesses the unique quality of evading digestion or fermentation in the early stages of the human digestive tract, instead reaching the lower colon directly. Exploiting on this distinctive attribute, INU finds application in the creation of targeted carrier systems for delivering drugs tailored to colon-related diseases. This study presents a novel method for synthesizing highly stable and non-aggregatory inulin nanoparticles (INU NPs) by ionotropic gelation method, using calcium chloride as crosslinker and natural honey as a stabilizing agent. Different formulation and process parameters were optimized for the synthesis of monodispersed INU NPs. These INU NPs efficiently encapsulated a hydrophilic drug irinotecan hydrochloride trihydrate (IHT) and drug loaded formulation (IINPs) demonstrated excellent colloidal and storage stabilities. Notably, these IINPs exhibited pH-dependent drug release, suggesting potential for colon-specific drug delivery. Anticancer activity of the NPs was found significantly higher in comparison to IHT through cytotoxicity and apoptosis studies against human colorectal carcinoma cells. Overall, this study revealed that the INU NPs synthesized by ionotropic gelation will be an efficient nanocarrier system for colon-targeted drug delivery due to their exceptional biocompatibility and stability in stomach and upper intestinal conditions.

Evidence for transporter-mediated uptake of environmental L-glutamate in a freshwater sponge, Ephydatia muelleri

The freshwater sponge, Ephydatia muelleri, lacks a nervous or endocrine system and yet it exhibits a coordinated whole-body action known as a "sneeze" that can be triggered by exposure to L-glutamate. It is not known how L-glutamate is obtained by E. muelleri in sufficient quantities (i.e., 70 µM) to mediate this response endogenously. The present study tested the hypothesis that L-glutamate can be directly acquired from the environment across the body surface of E. muelleri. We demonstrate carrier mediated uptake of two distinct saturable systems with maximal transport rates (Jmax) of 64.27 ± 4.98 and 25.12 ± 1.87 pmols mg-1 min-1, respectively. The latter system has a higher calculated substrate affinity (Km) of 2.87 ± 0.38 µM compared to the former (8.75 ± 1.00 µM), indicative of distinct systems that can acquire L-glutamate at variable environmental concentrations. Further characterization revealed potential shared pathways of L-glutamate uptake with other negatively charged amino acids, namely D-glutamate and L-aspartate, as well as the neutral amino acid L-alanine. We demonstrate that L-glutamate uptake does not appear to rely on exogenous sodium or proton concentrations as removal of these ions from the bathing media did not significantly alter uptake. Likewise, L-glutamate uptake does not seem to rely on internal proton motive forces driven by VHA as application of 100 nM of the VHA inhibitor bafilomycin did not alter uptake rates within E. muelleri tissues. Whether the acquired amino acid is used to supplement feeding or is stored and accumulated to mediate the sneeze response remains to be determined.

Application of inulin for the formulation and delivery of bioactive molecules and live cells

Inulin is a fructan biosynthesized mainly in plants of the Asteraceae family. It is also found in edible vegetables and fruits such as onion, garlic, leek, and banana. For the industrial production of inulin, chicory and Jerusalem artichoke are the main raw material. Inulin is used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic as well biotechnological industries. It has a GRAS status and exhibits prebiotic properties. Inulin can be used as a wall material in the encapsulation process of drugs and other bioactive compounds and the development of their delivery systems. In the review, the use of inulin for the encapsulation of probiotics, essential and fatty oils, antioxidant compounds, natural colorant and other bioactive compounds is presented. The encapsulation techniques, materials and the properties of final products suitable for the delivery into food are discussed. Research limitations are also highlighted.

Differences in physicochemical, rheological, and prebiotic properties of inulin isolated from five botanical sources and their potential applications

This study compares the physicochemical and prebiotic properties of inulin isolated from five botanical sources. The average degree of polymerization (DP) for inulin ranged from 5.00 to 13.33. Notably, inulin from Dahlia tubers (DP = 13) and Platycodonis Radix (DP = 8) demonstrated granular, clustered morphology under SEM, semi-crystalline structures via X-ray diffraction, and exhibited shear-thinning behaviors from shear rate 1 s-1 to 500 s-1. In contrast, inulin from Jerusalem artichoke (DP = 5), chicory root (DP = 7), and Asparagi Radix (DP = 5) showcased rough flake morphologies under SEM, amorphous structures in X-ray patterns, and similar shear-thinning behaviors. All inulin types showed acid stability at pH levels below 2.0, with a reducing sugar conversion ratio (RRS) under 1 %. Furthermore, the isolated inulin from the different sources presented prebiotic capacity when added as a sole carbon source in the culture media of the probiotics Lactobacillus paracasei and Bifidobacterium longum. This study provides the properties of inulin from various sources, thereby offering a reference for the selection of appropriate inulin in industrial applications based on the desired characteristics of the final product.

Rheological and Micro-Rheological Properties of Chicory Inulin Gels

As a soluble fiber, inulin is present in many plants and has many applications in food and non-food products. In this work, we investigated the rheological properties of inulin dispersions at seven concentrations. The linear viscoelastic properties of inulin were determined using a conventional mechanical rheometer. At 25 wt%, inulin exhibited fluid-like viscoelastic liquid behavior. However, when concentrations were ≥27.5 wt%, inulin exhibited gel-like viscoelastic properties. The viscoelastic properties (moduli and viscosities) increased with increasing inulin concentration. The high-frequency linear rheological properties of inulin were also investigated using the modern light scattering technique, diffusion wave spectroscopy (DWS). The diffusion wave spectroscopy (DWS) measurements showed the amplitude of complex moduli (|G*(ω)|) of inulin gels (≥27.5 wt%) to be proportional to ½ power law of the frequency, which suggests inulin gels behave similarly to flexible polymers. The non-linear steady shear experiments demonstrated that inulin exhibited shear-thinning behavior that was well fitted by a power law constitutive model. The trend of the power law exponent from the experiments indicated that the shear-thinning extent for inulin was greater as the inulin concentration increased. The results of this work indicated that the properties of inulin gel can be manipulated by altering its concentration. Therefore, the desired inulin product can be designed accordingly. These results can be used to direct further food and non-food applications, such as wound healing materials for inulin gels.

New Horizons in Probiotics: Unraveling the Potential of Edible Microbial Polysaccharides through In Vitro Digestion Models

In vitro digestion models, as innovative assessment tools, possess advantages such as speed, high throughput, low cost, and high repeatability. They have been widely applied to the investigation of food digestion behavior and its potential impact on health. In recent years, research on edible polysaccharides in the field of intestinal health has been increasing. However, there is still a lack of systematic reviews on the application of microbial-derived edible polysaccharides in in vitro intestinal models. This review thoroughly discusses the limitations and challenges of static and dynamic in vitro digestion experiments, while providing an in-depth introduction to several typical in vitro digestion models. In light of this, we focus on the degradability of microbial polysaccharides and oligosaccharides, with a particular emphasis on edible microbial polysaccharides typically utilized in the food industry, such as xanthan gum and gellan gum, and their potential impacts on intestinal health. Through this review, a more comprehensive understanding of the latest developments in microbial polysaccharides, regarding probiotic delivery, immobilization, and probiotic potential, is expected, thus providing an expanded and deepened perspective for their application in functional foods.

Inulin: Unveiling its potential as a multifaceted biopolymer in prebiotics, drug delivery, and therapeutics

In recent years, inulin has gained much attention as a promising multifunctional natural biopolymer with numerous applications in drug delivery, prebiotics, and therapeutics. It reveals a multifaceted biopolymer with transformative implications by elucidating the intricate interplay between inulin and the host, microbiome, and therapeutic agents. Their flexible structure, exceptional targetability, biocompatibility, inherent ability to control release behavior, tunable degradation kinetics, and protective ability make them outstanding carriers in healthcare and biomedicine. USFDA has approved Inulin as a nutritional dietary supplement for infants. The possible applications of inulin in biomedicine research inspired by nature are presented. The therapeutic potential of inulin goes beyond its role in prebiotics and drug delivery. Recently, significant research efforts have been made towards inulin's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties for their potential applications in treating various chronic diseases. Moreover, its ability to reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses opens new avenues for treating conditions such as autoimmune disorders and gastrointestinal ailments. This review will attempt to illustrate the inulin's numerous and interconnected roles, shedding light on its critical contributions to the advancement of healthcare and biomedicine and its recent advancement in therapeutics, and conclude by taking valuable insights into the prospects and opportunities of inulin.

Effect of alternative sweetener and carbohydrate polymer mixtures on the physical properties, melting and crystallization behaviour of dark compound chocolate

This study aims to evaluate the effect of sucrose replacer mixtures (erythritol, mannitol, or tagatose in combination with inulin or polydextrose) on the crystal morphology, particle size distribution, rheology, melting properties, and fat polymorphism of dark compound chocolate. The result showed that the replacer mixture's hygroscopicity, particle size, and sugar crystal shape might significantly impact dark compound chocolate's rheological and textural properties but had no substantial impact on the melting properties and fat crystallization. Mannitol-containing samples exhibited the highest rheological value, likely related to their high moisture content, small particle size, and elongated crystal shape. Due to the similar specific surface area and comparable D90 value, the sample containing erythritol-polydextrose mixture resulted in a similar (P ≥ 0.05) Casson yield value (46.184 ± 2.45 Pa) compared to the sample containing sucrose (38.348 ± 1.68 Pa). It could be a potential sucrose replacer in the dark compound chocolate.

Efficacy of an inulin-based treatment on intestinal colonization by multidrug-resistant E. coli: insight into the mechanism of action

Inulin, an increasingly studied dietary fiber, alters intestinal microbiota. The aim of this study was to assess whether inulin decreases intestinal colonization by multidrug resistant E. coli and to investigate its potential mechanisms of action. Mice with amoxicillin-induced intestinal dysbiosis mice were inoculated with extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing E. coli (ESBL-E. coli). The combination of inulin and pantoprazole (IP) significantly reduced ESBL-E. coli fecal titers, whereas pantoprazole alone did not and inulin had a delayed and limited effect. Fecal microbiome was assessed using shotgun metagenomic sequencing and qPCR. The efficacy of IP was predicted by increased abundance of 74 taxa, including two species of Adlercreutzia. Preventive treatments with A. caecimuris or A. muris also reduced ESBL-E. coli fecal titers. Fecal microbiota of mice effectively treated by IP was enriched in genes involved in inulin catabolism, production of propionate and expression of beta-lactamases. They also had increased beta-lactamase activity and decreased amoxicillin concentration. These results suggest that IP act through production of propionate and degradation of amoxicillin by the microbiota. The combination of pantoprazole and inulin is a potential treatment of intestinal colonization by multidrug-resistant E. coli. The ability of prebiotics to promote propionate and/or beta-lactamase producing bacteria may be used as a screening tool to identify potential treatments of intestinal colonization by multidrug resistant Enterobacterales.

Simple procedure to enhance pulsed amperometric detector (PAD) response stability for inulin-type fructans analysis. Application to a case study with chicory taproot

A new electrode management, within the HPAEC-PAD systems, was proposed to measure inulin-type fructans in chicory roots, grown under two lighting periods: 12 h (T-12 h) and 24 h continuous lighting (T-24 h-CL), with the same daily light integral (DLI). The amperometric cell turn-off (PAD-Off) after elution of carbohydrate of interest, allowed the stabilization of the PAD response, avoiding excessive electrode surface oxidation. The enhanced signal stability allowed the application of fucose as internal standard (ISTD) for data normalization, improving the correctness of linear calibration curves and the quantification of fructans in the case study of chicory plants. T-24 h-CL decreased FW and DW of chicory leaves while increasing these parameters in roots. Fructans amount in chicory roots was significantly higher in the T-24-CL photoperiod. The accuracy of prebiotics quantification by PAD-Off emphasized significant differences between light treatments. CL can improve the yield and quality of chicory roots.

Effect of daily ingestion of Bifidobacterium and dietary fiber on vascular endothelial function: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group comparison study

Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis GCL2505 (GCL2505) improves the intestinal microbiota and reduces human visceral fat. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study was conducted to examine the effects of inulin, a prebiotic dietary fiber, and GCL2505 on vascular endothelial function in healthy subjects (n = 60). The test drink contained 2.0 g/100 g inulin and 1.0 × 1010 colony-forming units/100 g GCL2505 and was consumed daily for 12 weeks. Flow-mediated dilation was set as the primary endpoint. Subgroup analysis of vascular endothelial function demonstrated a significant increase in the change of flow-mediated dilation (%) from weeks 0 to 12 in the GCL2505 and inulin group (n = 24) compared with the placebo group (n = 23), while an improving trend in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 were confirmed. Our results indicated that the test drink had a positive effect on vascular endothelial function and related blood parameters.

Inulin-type fructans and 2'fucosyllactose alter both microbial composition and appear to alleviate stress-induced mood state in a working population compared to placebo (maltodextrin): the EFFICAD Trial, a randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

There is increasing interest in the bidirectional relationship existing between the gut and brain and the effects of both oligofructose and 2'fucosyllactose to alter microbial composition and mood state. Yet, much remains unknown about the ability of oligofructose and 2'fucosyllactose to improve mood state via targeted manipulation of the gut microbiota.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to compare the effects of oligofructose and 2'fucosyllactose alone and in combination against maltodextrin (comparator) on microbial composition and mood state in a working population.

METHODS

We conducted a 5-wk, 4-arm, parallel, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 92 healthy adults with mild-to-moderate levels of anxiety and depression. Subjects were randomized to oligofructose 8 g/d (plus 2 g/d maltodextrin); maltodextrin 10 g/d; oligofructose 8 g/d plus 2'fucosyllactose (2 g/d) or 2'fucosyllactose 2 g/d (plus 8 g/d maltodextrin). Changes in microbial load (fluorescence in situ hybridization-flow cytometry) and composition (16S ribosomal RNA sequencing) were the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included gastrointestinal sensations, bowel habits, and mood state parameters.

RESULTS

There were significant increases in several bacterial taxa including Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, Roseburia, and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii in both the oligofructose and oligofructose/2'fucosyllactose interventions (all P ≤ 0.05). Changes in bacterial taxa were highly heterogenous upon 2'fuscoyllactose supplementation. Significant improvements in Beck Depression Inventory, State Trait Anxiety Inventory Y1 and Y2, and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule scores and cortisol awakening response were detected across oligofructose, 2'fucosyllactose, and oligofructose/2'fucosyllactose combination interventions (all P ≤ 0.05). Both sole oligofructose and oligofructose/2'fuscosyllactose combination interventions outperformed both sole 2'fucosyllactose and maltodextrin in improvements in several mood state parameters (all P ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that oligofructose and combination of oligofructose/2'fucosyllactose can beneficially alter microbial composition along with improving mood state parameters. Future work is needed to understand key microbial differences separating individual responses to 2'fucosyllactose supplementation. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT05212545.

Characterisation, slow-release, and antibacterial properties of carboxymethyl chitosan/inulin hydrogel film loaded with novel antilisterial durancin GL

This paper reports the development of a hydrogel film with antibacterial activity and controlled release characteristics. Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) is grafted onto durancin GL and inulin via a mediated reaction between N-hydroxysuccinimide and 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride. Rheology tests, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and lap shear tests confirmed the formation of a stable chemical cross-linking and excellent adhesion hydrogel with 4 % CMCS and 8 % inulin. The CMCS/inulin hydrogel film loaded with durancin GL appears transparent and uniform. FTIR spectroscopy results reveal the interaction mode among CMCS, inulin, durancin GL, and the hydrogel film structure. Cross-linking improved thermal stability and water-vapour barrier performance. The hydrophobicity of CMCS/inulin @Durancin GL increased under a durancin GL concentration of 0.036 g/30 mL, and the release of active substances is prolonged. In-vitro antibacterial capacity and salmon preservation experiments show that the addition of durancin GL enhanced the antibacterial activity of the hydrogel film. Therefore, CMCS/inulin@Durancin GL hydrogel films can be used as fresh-keeping packaging materials in practical applications.

Fructose-Containing Plant Carbohydrates: Biological Activities and Medical Applications

The review considers the chemical structure specifics and distribution in plants for fructose-containing carbohydrates (fructans). Various biological activities were observed in fructans and associated with their physicochemical features. Fructans affect many physiological and biochemical processes in the human body, improving health and reducing the risk of various disorders. Prebiotic activity is the most important physiological function of fructans. Fructans improve the microflora composition in the colon and intestinal mucosa by increasing the content of useful bacteria and decreasing the content of potentially harmful microorganisms, stimulate the physiological functions of the microflora, and provide for a better state of the intestine and a better health status. By modifying the intestinal microbiota and utilizing certain additional mechanisms, fructans can favorably affect the immune function, decrease the risk of various inflammatory processes, and to reduce the likelihood of tumorigenesis due to exposure to carcinogens. Fructans improve carbohydrate and lipid metabolism by reducing the blood levels of glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and increasing the blood content of high-density lipoprotein (HLD). Fructans are low in calories, and their use in foods reduces the risk of obesity. Fructans facilitate higher calcium absorption and increase the bone density, thus reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Fructants protect the body from oxidative stress, intestinal infections, and parasitic invasions.

Effect of Continuous Ingestion of Bifidobacteria and Dietary Fiber on Improvement in Cognitive Function: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis GCL2505 has been shown to have some positive effects on health, including improved defecation frequency and reduced visceral fat. These effects are thought to be due to GCL2505's unique ability to reach the intestine in a viable form and proliferate after a single intake. This leads to an increased number of intestinal bifidobacteria. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study was conducted to confirm that intake of GCL2505 and inulin (a prebiotic) improve cognitive function (n = 80). Participants consumed test drinks containing 1 × 1010 colony-forming units of GCL2505 per 100 g and 2.0 g of inulin per 100 g for 12 weeks. The change in cognitive function assessment scores was set as the primary endpoint. There were significant improvements in scores in the neurocognitive index domain, which is an assessment of overall cognitive function, in addition to overall attention, cognitive flexibility, and executive function domains. The intervention significantly increased the number of fecal bifidobacteria and affected the levels of several inflammatory markers. These results suggest that intake of GCL2505 and inulin improves cognitive function by improving the intestinal environment and alleviating inflammation.

The Effect of Prebiotic Supplements on the Gastrointestinal Microbiota and Associated Health Parameters in Pigs

Establishing a balanced and diverse microbiota in the GIT of pigs is crucial for optimizing health and performance throughout the production cycle. The post-weaning period is a critical phase, as it is often associated with dysbiosis, intestinal dysfunction and poor performance. Traditionally, intestinal dysfunctions associated with weaning have been alleviated using antibiotics and/or antimicrobials. However, increasing concerns regarding the prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria has prompted an industry-wide drive towards identifying natural sustainable dietary alternatives. Modulating the microbiota through dietary intervention can improve animal health by increasing the production of health-promoting metabolites associated with the improved microbiota, while limiting the establishment and proliferation of pathogenic bacteria. Prebiotics are a class of bioactive compounds that resist digestion by gastrointestinal enzymes, but which can still be utilized by beneficial microbes within the GIT. Prebiotics are a substrate for these beneficial microbes and therefore enhance their proliferation and abundance, leading to the increased production of health-promoting metabolites and suppression of pathogenic proliferation in the GIT. There are a vast range of prebiotics, including carbohydrates such as non-digestible oligosaccharides, beta-glucans, resistant starch, and inulin. Furthermore, the definition of a prebiotic has recently expanded to include novel prebiotics such as peptides and amino acids. A novel class of -biotics, referred to as "stimbiotics", was recently suggested. This bioactive group has microbiota-modulating capabilities and promotes increases in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production in a disproportionally greater manner than if they were merely substrates for bacterial fermentation. The aim of this review is to characterize the different prebiotics, detail the current understating of stimbiotics, and outline how supplementation to pigs at different stages of development and production can potentially modulate the GIT microbiota and subsequently improve the health and performance of animals.

Strategic biomodification for raw plant-based pretreatment biorefining toward sustainable chemistry

Plant-based pretreatment biorefining is the initial triggering process in biomass-conversion to bio-based chemical products. In view of chemical sustainability, the raw plant-based pretreatment biorefining process is more favorable than the fossil-based one. Its direct use contributes to reducing CO2 emissions and the production cost of the target products by eliminating costly steps, such as the separation and purification of intermediates. Three types of feedstock plant resources have been utilized as raw plant feedstock sources, such as: lignocellulosic, starchy, and inulin-rich feedstock plants. These plant sources can be directly used for bio-based chemical products. To enhance the efficiency of their pretreatment biorefining process, well-designed biomodification schemes are discussed in this review to afford important information on useful biomodification approaches. For lignocellulosic feedstock plants, the enzymes and regulatory elements involved in lignin reduction are discussed using: COMT, GAUT4, CSE, PvMYB4 repressor, etc. For inulin-rich feedstock plants, 1-SST, 1-FFT, 1-FEH, and endoinulinase are illustrated in relation with the reduction of chain length of inulin polymer. For starchy feedstock plants, their biomodification is targeted to enhancing the depolymerization efficiency of starch to glucose monomer units. For this biomodification target, six candidates are discussed. These are SBE I, SBE IIa, SBE IIb, GBSS I, PTSTI, GWD 1, and PTSTI. The biomodification strategies discussed here promise to be conducive to enhancing the efficiency of the plant-based pretreatment biorefining process.

Oligofructose alone and in combination with 2'fucosyllactose induces physiologically relevant changes in γ-aminobutyric acid and organic acid production compared to sole 2'fucosyllactose supplementation: an in vitro study

We explored the potential for the prebiotic oligofructose and prebiotic candidate 2'fucosyllactose, alone and in combination (50:50 blend) to induce physiologically relevant increases in neurotransmitter (γ-aminobutyric acid, serotonin, tryptophan, and dopamine) and organic acid (acetate, propionate, butyrate, lactate, and succinate) production as well as microbiome changes using anaerobic pH-controlled in vitro batch culture fermentations over 48 h. Changes in organic acid and neurotransmitter production were assessed by gas chromatography and liquid chromatography and, bacterial enumeration using fluorescence in situ hybridization, respectively. Both oligofructose and oligofructose/2'fucosyllactose combination fermentations induced physiologically relevant concentrations of γ-aminobutyric acid, acetate, propionate, butyrate, and succinate at completion (all P ≤ .05). A high degree of heterogeneity was seen amongst donors in both neurotransmitter and organic acid production in sole 2'FL fermentations suggesting a large responder/nonresponder status exists. Large increases in Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Bacteroides numbers were detected in oligofructose fermentation, smallest increases being detected in 2'fucosyllactose fermentation. Bacterial numbers in the combined oligofructose/2'fucosyllactose fermentation were closer to that of sole oligofructose. Our results indicate that oligofructose and oligofructose/2'fucosyllactose in combination have the potential to induce physiologically relevant increases in γ-aminobutyric and organic acid production along with offsetting the heterogenicity seen in response to sole 2'fucosyllactose supplementation.

Dietary non-starch polysaccharides impair immunity to enteric nematode infection

BACKGROUND

The influence of diet on immune function and resistance to enteric infection and disease is becoming ever more established. Highly processed, refined diets can lead to inflammation and gut microbiome dysbiosis, whilst health-promoting dietary components such as phytonutrients and fermentable fibres are thought to promote a healthy microbiome and balanced mucosal immunity. Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a leafy green vegetable rich in fibres and bioactive compounds that may promote gut health.

RESULTS

Unexpectedly, we here show that incorporation of chicory into semisynthetic AIN93G diets renders mice susceptible to infection with enteric helminths. Mice fed a high level of chicory leaves (10% dry matter) had a more diverse gut microbiota, but a diminished type-2 immune response to infection with the intestinal roundworm Heligmosomoides polygyrus. Furthermore, the chicory-supplemented diet significantly increased burdens of the caecum-dwelling whipworm Trichuris muris, concomitant with a highly skewed type-1 immune environment in caecal tissue. The chicory-supplemented diet was rich in non-starch polysaccharides, particularly uronic acids (the monomeric constituents of pectin). In accordance, mice fed pectin-supplemented AIN93G diets had higher T. muris burdens and reduced IgE production and expression of genes involved in type-2 immunity. Importantly, treatment of pectin-fed mice with exogenous IL-25 restored type-2 responses and was sufficient to allow T. muris expulsion.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our data suggest that increasing levels of fermentable, non-starch polysaccharides in refined diets compromises immunity to helminth infection in mice. This diet-infection interaction may inform new strategies for manipulating the gut environment to promote resistance to enteric parasites.

Extraction, Physicochemical Properties, Functional Activities and Applications of Inulin Polysaccharide: a Review

Inulin is a naturally soluble dietary fiber that is widely distributed and primarily derived from plants. As a reserve biopolysaccharide in plants, inulin is considered an indigestible carbohydrate of fructan because of its unique β-(2,1)-glycosidic bond structure. Numerous recent animal and human experimental studies have shown that functional inulin possesses multiple bioactivities, including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antitumor, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, and gastrointestinal protective activities. Due to its increasing popularity, people tend to consume foods containing inulin. Moreover, inulin holds promise as a bioactive compound for use in the development of various food products. Therefore, this paper provides a detailed review of the extraction method, physicochemical properties, functional activity, and application development of inulin polysaccharides, to provide a theoretical foundation for further advancements in the fields of preparation and application of functional foods.

3D printed macroporous scaffolds of PCL and inulin-g-P(D,L)LA for bone tissue engineering applications

Bone repair and tissue-engineering (BTE) approaches require novel biomaterials to produce scaffolds with required structural and biological characteristics and enhanced performances with respect to those currently available. In this study, PCL/INU-PLA hybrid biomaterial was prepared by blending of the aliphatic polyester poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) with the amphiphilic graft copolymer Inulin-g-poly(D,L)lactide (INU-PLA) synthetized from biodegradable inulin (INU) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The hybrid material was suitable to be processed using fused filament fabrication 3D printing (FFF-3DP) technique rendering macroporous scaffolds. PCL and INU-PLA were firstly blended as thin films through solvent-casting method, and then extruded by hot melt extrusion (HME) in form of filaments processable by FFF-3DP. The physicochemical characterization of the hybrid new material showed high homogeneity, improved surface wettability/hydrophilicity as compared to PCL alone, and right thermal properties for FFF process. The 3D printed scaffolds exhibited dimensional and structural parameters very close to those of the digital model, and mechanical performances compatible with the human trabecular bone. In addition, in comparison to PCL, hybrid scaffolds showed an enhancement of surface properties, swelling ability, and in vitro biodegradation rate. In vitro biocompatibility screening through hemolysis assay, LDH cytotoxicity test on human fibroblasts, CCK-8 cell viability, and osteogenic activity (ALP evaluation) assays on human mesenchymal stem cells showed favorable results.

Novel Hybrid Inulin-Soy Protein Nanoparticles Simultaneously Loaded with (-)-Epicatechin and Quercetin and Their In Vitro Evaluation

(-)-Epicatechin and quercetin have attracted considerable attention for their potential therapeutic application in non-communicable chronic diseases. A novel hybrid inulin-soy protein nanoparticle formulation was simultaneously loaded with (-)-epicatechin and quercetin (NEQs) to improve the bioavailability of these flavonoids in the human body, and NEQs were synthesized by spray drying. After process optimization, the physicochemical and functional properties of NEQs were characterized including in vitro release, in vitro gastrointestinal digestion, and cell viability assays. Results showed that NEQs are an average size of 280.17 ± 13.42 nm and have a zeta potential of -18.267 ± 0.83 mV in the organic phase. Encapsulation efficiency of (-)-epicatechin and quercetin reached 97.04 ± 0.01 and 92.05 ± 1.95%, respectively. A 3.5% soy protein content conferred controlled release characteristics to the delivery system. Furthermore, NEQs presented inhibitory effects in Caco-2, but not in HepG-2 and HDFa cell lines. These results contribute to the design and fabrication of inulin-soy protein nanoparticles for improving the bioavailability of multiple bioactive compounds with beneficial properties.

Sonochemical application reduces monosaccharide levels and improves cryoprotective effect of Jerusalem artichoke extract on Leuconostoc mesenteroides WiKim33 during freeze-drying

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are being used for probiotic and starter cultures to prevent global damage to microbial cells. To retain the benefits of LAB in the commercially used powdered form, highly efficient cryoprotective agents are required during the manufacturing process. This study suggests a novel cryoprotective agent derived from Jerusalem artichoke (JA; Helianthus tuberous L.) and describes the mechanism of cryoprotective effect improvement by sonication treatment. The cryoprotective effect of JA extract was verified by examining the viability of Leuconostoc mesenteroides WiKim33 after freeze-drying (FD). Sonication of JA extract improved the cryoprotective effect. Sonication reduced fructose and glucose contents, which increased the induction of critical damage during FD by 15.84% and 46.81%, respectively. The cryoprotective effects of JA and sonication-treated JA extracts were determined using the viable cell count of Leu. mesenteroides WiKim33. Immediately after FD and storage for 24 weeks, the viability of Leu. mesenteroides WiKim33 with JA extract was 82.8% and 76.3%, respectively, while that of the sonication-treated JA extract was 95.2% and 88.8%, respectively. Our results show that reduction in specific monosaccharides was correlated with improved cryoprotective effect. This study adopted sonication as a novel treatment for improving the cryoprotective effect and verified its efficiency.

Constitution and reconstitution of microcapsules with high diacylglycerol oil loading capacity based on whey protein isolate / octenyl succinic anhydride starch/ inulin matrix

The aim of this study was to constitute microcapsule systems with high oil loading capacity by octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) starch, whey protein isolate (WPI) and inulin (IN) substrates to provide a new method for encapsulating diacylglycerol oil. Specifically, this study characterizes the physicochemical properties and reconstitution capacity of highly oil loading diacylglycerol microcapsules by comparing the wall encapsulation capacity of the binary wall system OSA-IN, WPI-IN and the ternary wall system WPI-OSA (1:9, 5:5, 9:1)-IN for diacylglycerol oil. It was found that WPI-OSA (5:5)-IN significantly improved the water solubility of microcapsules (86.11 %) compared to OSA-IN microcapsules, and the addition of WPI made the surface of microcapsules smoother and increased the thermal stability and solubility of microcapsules; the addition of OSA enhanced the wettability of microcapsules compared to WPI-IN. In addition, WPI-OSA (5:5)-IN microcapsules have the highest encapsulation efficiency (96.03 %), high emulsion stability after reconstitution, and the smallest droplet size (212.83 nm) after 28 d. Therefore, the WPI-OSA-IN composite system is suitable for the production of highly oil-loaded microencapsulated systems with excellent reconstitution ability to expand the application of diacylglycerol oil.