Structure analysis of a heteropolysaccharide from Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz. and anticomplementary activity of its sulfated derivatives

Medicinal and edible homologous poly/oligo-saccharides: Structural features, effect on intestinal flora and preventing and treating type 2 diabetes, and their applications: A review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the third most common chronic metabolic disorder worldwide and seriously dangerous. Novel therapeutics are sought due to the paucity of safe and effective metabolic disorder-related diabetes medicines. Intestinal flora impacts glucose and lipid balance, making it a unique T2DM therapeutic target. Due to gut fermentation, poly/oligo-saccharides are highly beneficial prebiotic carbohydrates for intestinal health. Moreover, supplementation with naturally occurring medicinal and edible homologous traditional Chinese medicines (MEHTCM) poly/oligo-saccharides has significant antidiabetic effects with few side effects. Now, a comprehensive review of research developments of MEHTCM poly/oligo-saccharides was presented to explore their prospects. We outlined the structural characteristics, structure classification, and structure-activity relationships. Notably, structure-activity relationships illustrated that molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and glycosidic bond type could influence the hypoglycemic activity and prebiotic effect of MEHTCM poly/oligo-saccharides. Additionally, the review systematically summarized the effect and potential mechanism of MEHTCM poly/oligo-saccharide on T2DM, focusing on gut microbiota. The potential applications in formulations for special medical purposes, common food, health care product, agriculture and other fields have also been summarized. This review emphasizes MEHTCM poly/oligo-saccharides' potential as prebiotics for T2DM treatment. This information provides new insights and a theoretical foundation for MEHTCM poly/oligo-saccharide nutritional and medicinal research.

Structural characterization of a polysaccharide from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi and its immune-enhancing properties on RAW264.7 cells

A novel polysaccharide SPS01-2 (87.5 kDa) was isolated from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. Monosaccharide composition revealed that SPS01-2 consists of rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, galacturonic acid, and glucuronic acid in ratio of 4.4: 67.1: 22.2: 6.3: 1.2. Further investigations using methylation, NMR, and mass spectrometry indicated that SPS01-2 is classified as a type II arabinogalactan (AG-II) with a minor presence of type I rhamnogalacturonan (RG-I). The core structure alternates between 1,2/1,2,4-α-L-Rhap and 1,4-α-D-GalpA, with branches including 1,3,6-β-D-Galp, 1,3-β-D-Galp, T-β-D-Galp, and T-α-L-Rhap. The RG-I regions are linked to 1,6-β-D-Galp, and 1,3,6-β-D-Galp units. Numerous arabinan branches, featuring multiple branching points, are attached to the O-3 position of galactose. Additionally, T-β-D-Galp, 1,6-β-D-Galp, and T-β-D-4-OMe-GlcpA are also linked to galactose in the backbone. Furthermore, SPS01-2 demonstrated potential immune-enhancing properties by dose-dependently increasing proliferation, phagocytosis, and the production of nitric oxide and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) in RAW264.7 cells. It also enhanced the expression of CD80, CD86, and MHC-II at concentrations ranging from 5 to 200 μg/mL. Moreover, the immunostimulatory activity of SPS01-2 was significantly reduced when branch linkages were removed through partial acid hydrolysis. Our findings indicate that SPS01-2 could serve as a natural immunostimulant in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.

Effects of different extraction temperatures on the structural characteristics and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from dandelion leaves

Dandelion polysaccharides contribute to a variety of biological activities. This study evaluated the effect of different extraction temperatures (4 °C and 80 °C) on the structural characteristics and antioxidant activity of dandelion leaf polysaccharides (DLP). The findings demonstrated that the extraction efficiency improved at the higher temperature, while molecular weight exist a trend of degradation with increasing extraction temperature. Ion chromatography (IC) analysis indicated that the polysaccharides DLP4 and DLP80 were structurally complex heteropolysaccharides mainly composed of galactose, arabinose, glucose and mannose, with galactose and arabinose dominating. FT-IR and methylation analysis revealed that DLP4 and DLP80 had similar chemical structures and branches. DLP4 contained a higher amount of 6-Galactose. Microstructure analysis showed that heat treatment caused conformational changes in DLP4 and DLP80. Both had excellent free radical scavenging ability including DPPH·, ABTS·+, OH· and reducing power. The Reactive Oxygen Species assay indicated that the protective effect of DLP4 against H2O2-induced oxidative damage in vitro was stronger than that of DLP80. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) measurements also confirmed that the antioxidant effect of DLP4 was more prominent. Overall, low temperature extracted DLP can be used as an antioxidant in the areas of food, medicine and biomaterials.

The phytochemical and pharmacological profile of dandelion

Dandelion (Taraxacum genus), a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family is widely distributed in hillside grasslands, roadsides, fields, and river beaches in middle and low-altitude areas. It has a long history of traditional Chinese medicine usage as a heat-clearing and detoxifying agent, often consumed as tea or vegetable. Multiple pharmacological studies have demonstrated the antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immune-regulating, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and other effects of the Taraxacum genus. Bioactive compounds associated with these effects include triterpenes and their saponins, phenolic acids, sterols and their glycosides, flavonoids, organic acids, volatile oils, and saccharides.

Botany, Traditional Use, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Quality Control of Taraxaci herba: Comprehensive Review

Taraxaci herba, as a traditional Chinese medicine, is the name of the Taraxacum genus in the Asteraceae family. Documented in the Tang Herbal Medicine (Tang Dynasty, AD 657-659), its medicinal properties cover a wide range of applications such as acute mastitis, lung abscess, conjunctival congestion, sore throat, damp-heat jaundice, and vision improvement. In the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (Edition 2020), more than 40 kinds of China-patented drugs containing Taraxaci herba were recorded. This review explores the evolving scientific understanding of Taraxaci herba, covering facets of ethnopharmacology, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, artificial cultivation, and quality control. In particular, the chemical constituents and pharmacological research are reviewed. Taraxaci herba has been certified as a traditional medicine plant, and its flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids have been identified and separated, which include Chicoric acid, taraxasterol, Taraxasteryl acetate, Chlorogenic acid, isorhamnetin, and luteolin; they are responsible for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-tumor, and anti-cancer activities. These findings validate the traditional uses of Taraxaci herba and lay the groundwork for further scientific exploration. The sources used in this study include Web of Science, Pubmed, the CNKI site, classic monographs, the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, the Chinese Medicine Dictionary, and doctoral and master's theses.

Ultrasound assisted hot water extraction of polysaccharides from Taraxacum mongolicum: Optimization, purification, structure characterization, and antioxidant activity

Ultrasound assisted hot water extraction (UAHWE) was applied to extraction of polysaccharides from Taraxacum mongolicum with hot water as extract solvent. Experimental factors in UAHWE process were optimized by response surface methodology. The optimal extraction parameters to achieve the highest Taraxacum mongolicum polysaccharides (TMPs) yield (12.08 ± 0.14)% by UAHWE were obtained under the ultrasound power of 200 W, extraction temperature of 62°C, solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:20 g/mL, and extraction time of 40 min, and then the crude TMPs were further purified by DEAE-52 and Sephadex G-100 chromatography to obtain a homogenous polysaccharide fraction (TMPs-1-SG). Subsequently, the structure of TMPs-1-SG was characterized by UV-vis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Congo red test. The results display that TMPs-1-SG with an average molecular weight of 5.49 × 104 Da was comprised of mannose (Man), galactose (Gal), xylose (Xyl), and arabinose (Ara) with a molar ratio of 39.85:52.61:27.14:6.30. Moreover, TMPs-1-SG did not contain a triple helix structure. Furthermore, TMPs-1-SG and TEM presented a sheet-like, rod-shaped, and irregular structure. Finally, the antioxidant activity of TMPs-1-SG was evaluated by in vitro experiment. The IC50 values of scavenging DPPH and OH radicals for TMPs-1-SG achieved 0.71 mg/mL and 0.75 mg/mL, respectively. The findings can provide an effective method for extracting polysaccharides from natural resources.

Dandelion-derived vesicles-laden hydrogel dressings capable of neutralizing Staphylococcus aureus exotoxins for the care of invasive wounds

Delayed wound healing caused by bacterial infection remains a major challenge in clinical treatment. Exotoxins incorporated in bacterial extracellular vesicles play a key role as the disease-causing virulence factors. Safe and specific antivirulence agents are expected to be developed as an effective anti-bacterial infection strategy, instead of single antibiotic therapy. Plant-derived extracellular vesicle-like nanoparticles have emerged as promising therapeutic agents for skin diseases, but the elucidations of specific mechanisms of action and clinical transformation still need to be advanced. Here, dandelion-derived extracellular vesicle-like nanoparticles (TH-EVNs) are isolated and exert antivirulence activity through specifically binding to Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) exotoxins, thereby protecting the host cell from attack. The neutralization of TH-EVNs against exotoxins has considerable binding force and stability, showing complete detoxification effect in vivo. Then gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel is developed as TH-EVNs-loaded dressing for S. aureus exotoxin-invasive wounds. Hydrogel dressings demonstrate good physical and mechanical properties, thus achieving wound retention and controlled release of TH-EVNs, in addition to promoting cell proliferation and migration. In vivo results show accelerated re-epithelialization, promotion of collagen maturity and reduction of inflammation after treatment. Collectively, the developed TH-EVNs-laden hydrogel dressings provide a potential therapeutic approach for S. aureus exotoxin- associated trauma.

Extraction, purification, structural features, biological activities, modifications, and applications from Taraxacum mongolicum polysaccharides: A review

Dandelion (Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz), as a famous medicinal and edible plant, has the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, diuresis, and resolving masses. Phytochemistry investigations revealed that T. mongolicum has various bioactive ingredients, mainly including flavonoids, sterols, polysaccharides, phenolic acids and volatile oils. There is growing evidence have shown that the polysaccharides from T. mongolicum (TMPs) are a class of representative pharmacologically bioactive macromolecules with a variety of biological activities both in vitro and in vivo, such as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic, anti-bacterial, regulation of intestinal microbial, and anti-fatigue activities, etc. Additionally, the structural modification and potential applications of TMPs were also outlined. The present review aims to comprehensively and systematically collate the recent research progress on extraction and purification methods, structural characteristics, biological activities, mechanism of action, structural modification, and potential industry applications of TMPs to support their therapeutic potential and health care functions. Overall, the present review provides a theoretical overview for further development and utilization of TMPs in the fields of pharmaceutical and health food.

Dandelion polysaccharide treatment protects against dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis by suppressing NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation and activating Nrf2 in mouse colon

The treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) is still an intractable medical problem. Polysaccharides are promising candidates for the treatment of UC and have received widespread attention in recent years. The objective of this study was to explore the protective effect and underlying mechanism of dandelion polysaccharide (DP) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Our results showed that oral administration of DP could dramatically alleviate colonic lesions, as evidenced by reduced DAI scores, shortening of colon length, and ameliorating pathologic abnormalities in colons. Additionally, the expressions of pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and the infiltration of inflammation-regulation cells, marked by myeloperoxidase and F4/80, were also inhibited after DP treatment. Moreover, DP treatment also markedly suppressed the nuclear translocation of NF-κB-p65 and the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Furthermore, DP also activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and reduced the oxidative stress induced by DSS. Overall, these results suggest that DP could be a promising novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of UC.

Complement in Human Brain Health: Potential of Dietary Food in Relation to Neurodegenerative Diseases

The complement pathway is a major component of the innate immune system, which is critical for recognizing and clearing pathogens that rapidly react to defend the body against external pathogens. Many components of this pathway are expressed throughout the brain and play a beneficial role in synaptic pruning in the developing central nervous system (CNS). However, excessive complement-mediated synaptic pruning in the aging or injured brain may play a contributing role in a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases. Complement Component 1q (C1q), an initiating recognition molecule of the classical complement pathway, can interact with a variety of ligands and perform a range of functions in physiological and pathophysiological conditions of the CNS. This review considers the function and immunomodulatory mechanisms of C1q; the emerging role of C1q on synaptic pruning in developing, aging, or pathological CNS; the relevance of C1q; the complement pathway to neurodegenerative diseases; and, finally, it summarizes the foods with beneficial effects in neurodegenerative diseases via C1q and complement pathway and highlights the need for further research to clarify these roles. This paper aims to provide references for the subsequent study of food functions related to C1q, complement, neurodegenerative diseases, and human health.

Dandelion (Taraxacum Genus): A Review of Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Effects

Dandelion (Taraxacum genus) is a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. As a well-known and extensively studied genus, dandelion comprises numerous species. Some species have been widely used in both complementary and alternative medicine to clear heat, detoxify, activate blood circulation, dispel stasis, and discharge urine. Multiple pharmacological studies have highlighted its therapeutic potential, including anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-rheumatic activities. Furthermore, bioactive compounds associated with these effects include sesquiterpenoids, phenolic compounds, essential oils, saccharides, flavonoids, sphingolipids, triterpenoids, sterols, coumarins, etc. Based on recent studies about the Taraxacum genus, the present review critically evaluates the current state of dandelion utilization and summarizes the significant roles of dandelion and its constituents in different diseases. We also focus on the reported phytology, chemical composition, pharmacology, and toxicity of dandelion, along with the main possible action mechanisms behind their therapeutic activities. Meanwhile, the challenges and future directions of the Taraxacum genus are also prospected in this review, thus highlighting its pharmaceutical research and practical clinical applications.

Structure characterization of pectin from the pollen of Typha angustifolia L. and the inhibition activity of lipid accumulation in oleic acid induced L02 cells

The pollen of Typha angustifolia L. decoction was clinically used to treat hyperlipidemia in China. A pectin polysaccharide (PTPS-2-2) was obtained from T. angustifolia pollen through water extraction, ion-exchange chromatography, and gel chromatography. Structural characterization showed that PTPS-2-2 had a molecular weight of 54 kDa and was composed of rhamnose, arabinose, xylose, galactose, and galacturonic acid with a molar ratio of 11.5: 36.5: 4.1: 36.7: 11.2. PTPS-2-2 consisted of rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I) and arabinogalactan II (AG-II) domains. Its backbone was predominantly composed of →4-α-D-GalpA-(1 → 2)-α-L-Rhap-(1→, with branches of 1,3-Galp, 1,6-Galp, 1,3,6-Galp, T-Araf, 1.5-Araf and T-Xylp, connected to the 4-position of 1,2-Rhap and the 3-position of 1,4-GalpA. The inhibitory effect of PTPS-2-2 on lipid accumulation was studied in vitro, using L02 cells induced by oleic acid. This experiment shows that PTPS-2-2 treatment at 100-400 μg/mL dose-dependently reduce cellular triglycerides (TG), cholesterol (TC), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, while elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. This indicated that PTPS-2-2 potentially ameliorated oleic acid-induced hepatic steatosis by inhibiting lipid accumulation and oxidative stress.

Preparation, Characterization and Anti-Complementary Activity of Three Novel Polysaccharides from Cordyceps militaris

This investigation focuses on the three novel polysaccharides from Cordyceps militaris and then discusses their characterization and anti-complementary activity. The three polysaccharides from C. militaris (CMP-1, CMP-2 and CMP-3) were prepared using a DEAE-52 cellulose column. The HPLC, HPGPC, FT-IR and Congo red analyses were used to characterize their monosaccharides, molecular weight and stereo conformation, which demonstrated that the three polysaccharides were homogenous polysaccharides with different molecular weights and were composed of at least ten monosaccharides with different molar ratios, and all had a triple-helix conformation. The evaluation of anti-complementary activity demonstrated that the three polysaccharides significantly inhibited complement activation through the classical pathway and alternative pathway. Preliminary mechanism studies indicated that CMP-1, CMP-2 and CMP-3 acted with C2, C5, C9, factor B, factor B, and P components in the overactivation cascade of the complement system. The analysis of the Pearson correlation and network confirmed that the ribose, glucuronic acid and galacturonic acid composition were negatively correlated with the anti-complementary activity of polysaccharides. These results suggested that the three novel polysaccharides are potential candidates for anti-complementary drugs.

Hypoxia‑inducible factor‑1α: A critical target for inhibiting the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (Review)

Metastasis is one of the major reasons for patient mortality in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the progression of HCC to a metastatic state depends on the local microenvironment. Hypoxia is a key condition affecting the microenvironment of HCC. Currently, various studies have shown that the expression of hypoxia-ainducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is associated with the invasion and metastasis of HCC. High expression of HIF-1α often leads to poor prognosis in patients with HCC. In this review, the molecular structure of HIF-1α is described, and the expression pattern of HIF-1α in HCC under hypoxia, which is associated with metastasis and poor prognosis in HCC, is explained. The molecular mechanisms of HIF-1α function and the metastasis of HCC are further discussed. The modulation of HIF-1α can reduce sorafenib resistance and improve the prognosis of patients after TACE. Therefore, HIF-1α may be a critical target for inhibiting HCC metastasis in the future.

Preparation and structural properties of selenium modified heteropolysaccharide from the fruits of Akebia quinata and in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity

Cancer is a complex disease, and blocking tumor angiogenesis has become one of the most promising approaches in cancer therapy. Here, an exopoly heteropolysaccharide (AQP70-2B) was firstly isolated from Akebia quinata. Monosaccharide composition indicated that the AQP70-2B was composed of rhamnose, glucose, galactose, and arabinose. The backbone of AQP70-2B consisted of →1)-l-Araf, →3)-l-Araf-(1→, →5)-l-Araf-(1→, →3,5)-l-Araf-(1→, →2,5)-l-Araf-(1→, →4)-d-Glcp-(1→, →6)-d-Galp-(1→, and →1)-d-Rhap residues. Based on the close relationship between selenium and anti-tumor activity, AQP70-2B was modified with selenium to obtain selenized polysaccharide Se-AQP70-2B. Then, a series of methods for analysis and characterization, especially scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS), indicated that Se-AQP70-2B was successfully synthesized. Furthermore, zebrafish xenografts and anti-angiogenesis experiments indicated that selenization could improve the antitumor activity by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and migration and blocking angiogenesis.

Structure characterization of an arabinogalactan from Cynanchum atratum and its immune stimulatory activity on RAW264.7 cells

In the present study, a water-soluble neutral polysaccharide (CAPW-1) with an average molecular weight of 64 kDa was purified from the root of Cynanchum atratum Bunge (Apocynaceae). The monosaccharide residue analysis revealed that CAPW-1 was composed of arabinose and galactose with a relative molar ratio of 7: 3. The backbone of CAPW-1 was consisted of 1,3-Galp and 1,3,6-Galp, the branches were attached to the O-6 of 1,3-Galp, and the side chains contained 1,6-Galp, 1,3,6-Galp, 1,5-linked, 1,3-linked, 1,3,5-linked, and terminal-Araf, which was attached to the O-3 of side 1,6-Galp. The bioactivity study indicated CAPW-1 could stimulate the proliferation of RAW264.7 cells and promote the secretion of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) with no cytotoxicity. The results suggested a potential application of CAPW-1 as an immunostimulant for the treatment of diseases such as infection and tumor.

The structure elucidation of novel arabinogalactan LRP1-S2 against pancreatic cancer cells growth in vitro and in vivo

The fruit of Lycium ruthenicum Murr is used as traditional medicine and functional food. Previously we reported that one RG-I pectin from this fruit might inhibit pancreatic cancer cells growth. We further hypothesized that there might be other type of polysaccharides in this fruit also have anti-tumor effect. Here, we showed novel structure of a homogeneous polysaccharide named LRP1-S2 from this fruit and its anti-pancreatic cancer effect. Structure analyses suggested that LRP1-S2 was a novel arabinogalactan with the molecular weight (Mw) of 17.0 kDa. Bioactivity test showed that LRP1-S2 might attenuate the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro and in vivo without significant cytotoxicity to normal pancreatic HPDE6-C7 cells and LO2 liver cells. Mechanism study indicated that it might induce apoptosis of BxPC-3 by inactivating P38 MAPK/NF-κB and GSK-3β/β-Catenin signaling pathways. These results suggested that LRP1-S2 could be a potential anti-tumor leading compound for functional food and new drug development. CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS: arabinogalactan, pectin, galactan, arabinan, RN-1, HH1-1, LRP1-S2, LRP3-S1.

A dandelion polysaccharide and its selenium nanoparticles: Structure features and evaluation of anti-tumor activity in zebrafish models

In this study, an inulin fructan (TMP50-2) with moderate anti-tumor activity was obtained from dandelion. To further improve the anti-tumor activity of TMP50-2, a monodisperse and stable spherical nanoparticle (Tw-TMP-SeNP, 50 nm) was fabricated. Physico-chemical analysis revealed that TMP50-2 and Tween 80 were tightly wrapped on the surface of SeNPs by forming CO⋯Se bonds or through hydrogen bonding interaction (OH⋯Se). In vitro anti-tumor assay showed that Tw-TMP-SeNP treatment could significantly inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells (HepG2, A549, and HeLa) in a dose-dependent manner, while HepG2 cells were more susceptible to Tw-TMP-SeNP with an IC₅₀ value of 46.8 μg/mL. The apoptosis induction of HepG2 cells by Tw-TMP-SeNP was evidenced by increasing the proportion of apoptotic cells ranging from 12.5% to 27.4%. Furthermore, in vivo zebrafish model confirmed the anti-tumor activity of Tw-TMP-SeNP by inhibiting the proliferation and migration of tumor cells as well as the angiogenesis of zebrafish embryos.

Advances in Separation and Purification of Bioactive Polysaccharides through High-speed Counter-Current Chromatography

Polysaccharides, with an extensive distribution in natural products, represent a group of natural bioactive substances having widespread applications in health-care food products and as biomaterials. Devising an efficient system for the separation and purification of polysaccharides from natural sources, hence, is of utmost importance in the widespread applicability and feasibility of research for the development of polysaccharide-based products. High-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) is a continuous liquid-liquid partitioning chromatography with the ability to support a high loading amount and crude material treatment. Due to its flexible two-phase solvent system, HSCCC has been successfully used in the separation of many natural products. Based on HSCCC unique advantages over general column chromatography and its enhanced superiority in this regard when coupled to aqueous two-phase system (ATPS), this review summarizes the separation and purification of various bioactive polysaccharides through HSCCC and its coupling to ATPS as an aid in future research in this direction.

Polysaccharides from dandelion (Taraxacum mongolicum) leaves: Insights into innovative drying techniques on their structural characteristics and biological activities

The aim of this study was to well understand the impacts of innovative drying techniques (radio frequency drying and microwave drying) and traditional drying techniques (vacuum drying, freezing drying, and hot air drying) on the structural characteristics and bioactivities of polysaccharides from dandelion leaves (DLPs). Five different DLPs were obtained from dandelion leaves dried by abovementioned drying techniques. Results showed that the structural characteristics and bioactivities of DLPs varied with different drying techniques. The molecular weights, apparent viscosities, molar ratios of constituent monosaccharide, contents of uronic acids, and contents of bonded polyphenolics in DLPs obtained by different drying techniques had noticeable variations, while the types of constituent monosaccharides and the major glycosidic linkages in DLPs were similar. In addition, results showed that DLPs, especially DLP-RF obtained by the radio frequency drying, exhibited remarkable antioxidant activities (ABTS, DPPH, and NO radical scavenging activities), excellent in vitro antiglycation activity, and obvious in vitro inhibitory activity on α-glucosidase. Results from this study suggest that the radio frequency drying can be used as a potential drying technique before extracting DLPs for applications in the functional food and medicine industries.

Study on the denitrification and dephosphorization of the aqueous solution by Chitosan/4A Zeolite/Zr based Zeolite

The ternary hybrid material chitosan/4A Zeolite/Zr based Zeolite was synthesized by using 4A zeolite molecular sieve, Zr-zeolite and chitosan acetic acid solution as starting materials. The prepared composite were characterized by SEM, FT-IR and XRD. The experimental conditions such as the concentration of chitosan acetic acid solution, mass ratio of mass ratio of chitosan acetic acid solution, 4A zeolite molecular sieve and Zr-zeolite functional material, the optimum calcination temperature were optimized. Under this optimum conditions, the denitrification and dephosphorization effect can reach more than 70% when pH value was at 3-9. Dynamics research results showed that the ammonia nitrogen and phosphorus removal progress by chitosan/4A Zeolite/Zr based Zeolite was in accordance could be well described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, and the adsorption rate is up to 6.439 g/min. The isothermal adsorption process was in accordance with Freundlich model.

Structural properties and in vitro and in vivo immunomodulatory activity of an arabinofuranan from the fruits of Akebia quinata

In our continuous searching for natural active polysaccharides with immunomodulatory activity, an arabinofuranan (AQP70-3) was isolated and purified from the fruits of Akebia quinata (Houtt.) Decne. by using ion-exchange chromatography and gel permeation chromatography for the first time. AQP70-3 contained both α-l-Araf and β-l-Araf, and the absolute molecular weight was 1.06 × 10⁴ g/mol. The backbone of AQP70-3 comprised →5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, →3,5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, and →2,5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, with branches of →1)-β-l-Arafand →3)-α-l-Araf-(1→ residues. Biological assay suggested that AQP70-3 can stimulate phagocytic activity and promote the levels of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) of RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, AQP70-3 was found to increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and NO in zebrafish embryo model.

A Review of Edible Jujube, the Ziziphus jujuba Fruit: A Heath Food Supplement for Anemia Prevalence

The fruits of Ziziphus jujuba, commonly known as jujube, red date or Chinese date, are taken as fresh or dried food, and as traditional medicine worldwide due to high nutritional and health values. Traditionally in China, jujube is considered as a medicinal fruit that is being used in treating blood deficiency. In this review, the beneficial effects of jujubes on the hematopoietic functions are summarized and discussed. As illustrated in cell and animal models, the application of jujube extract possessed beneficial effects, including regulation of erythropoiesis via activation of hypoxia inducible factor-induced erythropoietin, potential capacity in recycling heme iron during erythrophagocytosis and bi-directional regulation of immune response. Thus, the blood-nourishing function of jujube is being proposed here. Flavonoid, polysaccharide and triterpenoid within jujube could serve as the potential active ingredients accounting for the aforementioned health benefits. Taken together, these findings provide several lines of evidence for further development of jujube as supplementary products for prevention and/or treatment of anemia.

Structural characteristics and anti-complement activities of polysaccharides from Sargassum hemiphyllum

Three polysaccharides (SH-1, SH-2 and SH-3) were purified from a brown macroalgea, Sargassum hemiphyllum. The autohydrolysis products from each polysaccharide were separated to three fractions (S fractions as oligomers, L fractions as low molecular weight polysaccharides and H fractions as high molecular weight polysaccharides). Mass spectroscopy of S fractions (SH-1-S, SH-2-S and SH-3-S) showed that these three polymers all contained short stretches of sulfated fucose. The structures of L fractions (SH-1-L, SH-2-L and SH-3-L) were determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). SH-1-L was composed of two units, unit A (sulfated galactofucan) and unit B (sulfated xylo-glucuronomannan). Unit A contained a backbone of (1, 6-linked β-D-Gal) n1, (1, 3-linked 4-sulfated α-L-Fuc) n2, (1, 3-linked 2, 4-di-sulfated α-L-Fuc) n3, (1, 4-linked α-L-Fuc) n4 and (1, 3-linked β-D-Gal) n5, accompanied by some branches, such as sulfated fuco-oligomers, sulfated galacto-oligomers or sulfated galacto-fuco-oligomers. And unit B consisted of alternating 1, 4-linked β-D-glucuronic acid (GlcA) and 1, 2-linked α-D-mannose (Man) with the Man residues randomly sulfated at C6 or branched with xylose (Xyl) at C3. Both SH-2-L and SH-3-L were composed of unit A and their difference was attributed to the ratio of n1: n2: n3: n4: n5. Based on monosaccharide analysis, we hypothesize that both SH-1-H and SH-2-H contained unit A and unit B while SH-3-H had a structure similar to SH-3-L. An assessment of anti-complement activities showed that the sulfated galactofucan had higher activities than sulfated galacto-fuco-xylo-glucuronomannan. These results suggest that the sulfated galactofucans might be a good candidate for anti-complement drugs.

Dandelion Polysaccharide Exerts Anti-Angiogenesis Effect on Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Regulating VEGF/HIF-1α Expression

Recent studies have revealed that natural plants-derived polysaccharides exhibit potent anti-tumor activity. Our earlier studies suggest that dandelion polysaccharide (DP) inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Here, we investigated the effects of DP on the angiogenesis of HCC and the potential molecular mechanisms by which DP regulates angiogenesis. Wound-healing and transwell invasion assays revealed that DP inhibited HUVECs migration and invasion in vitro, respectively. Tube formation assay, chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) demonstrated that DP suppressed vasculogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, Western blot and immunofluorescence staining verified that DP treatment decreased the protein levels of some key factors involved in angiogenesis of HCC, such as hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), p-PI3K, and p-AKT. However, activation of PI3K/AKT pathway with insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) treatment attenuated the effect of DP on angiogenesis via lowering the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF. In summary, we found that DP treatment inhibited angiogenesis in vivo and in vitro through suppressing expression of VEGF and HIF-1a. Furthermore, we showed that the expression of VEGF and HIF1-α was modulated by PI3K/AKT signaling. Collectively, our study suggests that DP is a promising anti-cancer drug candidate for treating HCC.

Structural characterization and anticomplement activities of three acidic homogeneous polysaccharides from Artemisia annua

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia annua L. is a heat-clearing Chinese medicine and well-known for its antimalarial constituent, artemisinin. It has gained increasing attention for its anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory activities. Interestingly, the crude polysaccahrides of A. annua exhibited potent anticomplement activity. This study was to isolate and characterize its anticomplement homogeneous polysaccharides from A. annua, and reveal the relationship between structures and anticomplement activities of the isolated polysaccharides.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Water-soluble crude polysaccharides from the aerial parts of A. annua were extracted and fractionated by DEAE-cellulose and Sephacryl S-300 gel permeation chromatography. Homogeneity, molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, methylation and NMR analysis were performed to characterize the structures of homogeneous polysaccharides. Their anticomplement activities and targeting components in the complement activation cascade were evaluated by hemolytic assays.

RESULTS

Three homogeneous polysaccharides (AAP01-1, AAP01-2 and AAP01-3) were obtained from A. annua. AAP01-1 was composed of seven monosaccharides, including mannose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose and arabinose. AAP01-2 and AAP01-3 had similar monosaccharides with AAP01-1, except the absence of glucuronic acid. They were all branched acidic heteropolysaccharides with different contents of galacturonic acid (8%, 28% and 15% for AAP01-1, AAP01-2 and AAP01-3, respectively). AAP01-2 showed potent anticomplement activity with CH₅₀ value of 0.360 ± 0.020 mg/mL through the classical pathway and AP₅₀ value of 0.547 ± 0.033 mg/mL through the alternative pathway. AAP01-3 exhibited slightly weaker activity (CH₅₀: 1.120 ± 0.052 mg/mL, AP₅₀: 1.283 ± 0.061 mg/mL), while AAP01-1 was inactive. Moreover, AAP01-2 acted on C1q, C3, C4, C5 and C9 components and AAP01-3 interacted with C3, C4 and C5 components in the activation cascade of complement system.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that the relatively high contents of galacturonic acid were important for anticomplement activities of the polysaccharides from A. annua. The anticomplement polysaccharides are another kind of bioactive constituents conferring heat-clearing effects of A. annua.

Physicochemical Characterization and Immunomodulatory Activity of a Novel Acid Polysaccharide from Solanum muricatum

To investigate the structure and immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharide from Solanum muricatum, a novel acid polysaccharide named SMP-3a was purified from Solanum muricatum pulp through DEAE-52 cellulose column and Sephadex G-200 chromatography. Monosaccharide composition analysis showed that SMP-3a was mainly composed of rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, and galacturonic acid with the molar ratio of 1.09:2.64:1.54:1. The average molecular weight was found to be 227 kDa by high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC). Thermal studies revealed the SMP-3a was a thermally stable polymer. Based on the results of methylation and NMR analysis, the backbone chain of SMP-3a was composed of →2)-α-l-Rhap-(1→, →4)-α-d-GalpA-(1→ and →4)-α-d-Galp-(1→. The side chain was consisted of α-l-Araf-(1→ and →5)-α-l-Araf-(1→. Immunomodulatory assay indicated that SMP-3a could significantly promote the proliferation of macrophages and stimulate the secretion of cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Our results suggested that SMP-3a could be used as a novel potential immunomodulatory agent in functional food.

Structural characterization and anticomplement activity of an acidic polysaccharide from Hedyotis diffusa

An acidic homogeneous polysaccharide (HD-PS-1) was purified from Hedyotis diffusa (Willd.) Roxb. HD-PS-1 possessed a backbone chain of →[4)-β-Glcp-3-OAc-(1]₆→[6)-β-Manp-(1]₂→6)-α-Galp-(1→[4)-α-Galp-(1]₂→, with three branches of β-Manp-(1→3)-β-GlcpA, α-Rhap-(1→3)-α-Rhap and α-Galp attached to the backbone chain at O-4 position of 1,4,6-linked β-Manp, O-3 position of 1,3,6-linked α-Galp and O-3 position of 1,3,4-linked α-Galp, respectively. HD-PS-1 exhibited significant anticomplement activity (CH₅₀: 0.084 ± 0.009 mg/mL, AP₅₀: 0.176 ± 0.013 mg/mL). It was found that the presence of uronic acids is important to anticomplement activity of HD-PS-1, given that the reduced HD-PS-1 showed weaker activity (CH₅₀: 0.456 ± 0.008 mg/mL, AP₅₀: 0.572 ± 0.010 mg/mL). Preliminary mechanism study indicated that HD-PS-1 interacted with C3 and C4 in the complement activation cascade. In addition, a neutral homogeneous polysaccharide (HD-PS-2) was also purified and characterized. HD-PS-2 displayed antioxidant activity by scavenging DPPH· radicals without anticomplement activity.

Structure characterization and immunomodulatory activity of a new neutral polysaccharide SMP-0b from Solanum muricatum

In the present study, a novel neutral polysaccharide SMP-0b was extracted and purified from the pulp of Solanum muricatum. Monosaccharide composition analysis revealed that SMP-0b was mainly composed of l-arabinose, d-mannose, d-glucose and d-galactose with the molar ratio of 5.31:2.92:42.23:25.38. The weight-average molecular weight and number-average molecular weight of SMP-0b was calculated to be 13.51 kDa and 9.91 kDa respectively through high performance gel permeation chromatography. The structure of SMP-0b was characterized by methylation and NMR analysis. It showed that the backbone chain of SMP-0b was consisted of →4)-β-d-Galp-(1→, →3,6)-β-d-Manp-(1→ and →6)-α-d-Glcp-(1→, and the side chain was composed of α-l-Araf-(1→ and →4)-α-d-Glcp-(1→. In immunomodulation assays in vitro, SMP-0b exhibited good immunomodulatory activity and could significantly stimulate proliferation and NO production of RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The results suggested that the neutral polysaccharide from Solanum muricatum might have potential as an immunomodulator or supplement in functional food to enhance immunity.

Effect of quality control on the proliferation of the extract from Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz. in Lactobacillus plantarum

In recent years, the fingerprint of high-performance liquid chromatography has been extensively applied in the identification and quality control of traditional Chinese medicine. It can be a potential protocol for assessing the authenticity, stability and consistency of traditional Chinese medicine and guaranteeing the expected biological activity. In this paper, a method using high-performance liquid chromatography to identify and control the quality of the extract of Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz. (TME) was established. With this method, the correlation coefficients of the similarity of 10 batches were ≥0.994. The TME displayed a steady proliferative effect in Lactobacillus plantarum. In brief, this study successfully built a reliable, simple and efficient method to control and confirm the quality and the stability of biological activity of the TME.

The addition of a quaternary group in biopolymeric material increases the adsorptive capacity of Acid Blue 25 textile dye

The quaternization of chitosan molecules creates materials with high adsorptive capacity towards textile dyes, which renders them capable of rapidly removing such dyes from a solution. In this study, a novel material was synthesized in bead form to adsorb the Acid Blue 25 textile dye. The adsorption isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics of this new material were investigated. The beads were further characterized by FT-IR and SEM studies, as well as their rheological behavior. Bioassays with Daphnia similis analyzed the toxicity of the dye before and after treatments. The Freundlich isotherm model fitted to all the adsorption data in a pH range from 2.50 to 8.50. Kinetic studies showed that adsorption was ruled by an intraparticle diffusion process and reached equilibrium in 270 min, as 39.527 μg mg^-1 of dye was sorbed to the beads. Thermodynamic studies showed that adsorption was a spontaneous and endothermic process. Thermodynamics also confirmed that the adsorption was proportionally influenced by higher temperatures. The FT-IR spectroscopy identified the adsorbate/adsorbent binding sites, thus confirming the occurrence of chemisorption. Post-treatment bioassays found a significant decrease in toxicity, obtaining just 10% of D. similis mortality after adsorption treatments. Therefore, the synthesized beads from this research can potentially be applied to the treatment of textile effluents.

Structure of a polysaccharide from Trichoderma atroviride and its promotion on tanshinones production in Salvia miltiorrhiza hairy roots

This study evaluates the chemical structure of a heteropolysaccharide (PSF-W-1) from the endophytic fungus Trichoderma atroviride and its effects on the production of tanshinones in Salvia miltiorrhiza hairy roots. The total carbohydrate content of isolated PSF-W-1 was determined to be 97.72%. PSF-W-1 has a relative molecular weight of 36.13 kDa and contains mannose, glucose and galactose in molar ratios of 1.00:4.86:2.25. Through methylation analysis, IR and NMR, PSF-W-1 was determined to possess a backbone of →4)-β-D-Glcp-(1→6)-α-D-Galp-(1→4)-β-D-Manp-(1→6)-α-D-Galp-(1→ with two side chains β-D-Glcp-(1→4)-β-D-Glcp-(1→ attached to O3 of 1,6-α-D-Galp. Bioactivity tests suggested that PSF-W-1 was responsible for boosting the S. miltiorrhiza hairy root growth and the biosynthesis of dihydrotanshinone I, tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone in hairy roots. According to this study, PSF-W-1 might be utilized as a potent stimulator of tanshinones synthesis.

Dectin-3 Recognizes Glucuronoxylomannan of Cryptococcus neoformans Serotype AD and Cryptococcus gattii Serotype B to Initiate Host Defense Against Cryptococcosis

Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii cause life-threatening meningoencephalitis or lung diseases in immunocompetent individuals or immunocompromised ones. C. neoformans and C. gattii are subdivided into five serotypes based on their capsular glucuronoxylomannan (GXM). C. neoformans consists of serotypes A, D, and AD hybrid, and C. gattii consists of serotypes B and C. Given structural differences of GXM between C. neoformans and C. gattii, it remains unclear that how innate immune system recognizes GXM. Here, we report that C-type lectin receptor Dectin-3 (MCL encoded by Clec4d) is a direct receptor for GXMs from C. neoformans serotype AD (C.n-AD) and C. gattii serotype B (C.g-B). GXMs from C.n-AD and C.g-B activated NF-κB and ERK pathways to induce pro-inflammatory cytokine production, whereas it was completely abolished due to deficiency of Dectin-3 or caspase recruitment domain family member 9 (CARD9). Upon pulmonary C.n-AD and C.g-B infection, Dectin-3- and CARD9-deficient mice were highly susceptible and showed augmented lung injury due to impairment of alveolar macrophage accumulation and killing activities. Our study provides the first biological and genetic evidence demonstrating that Dectin-3 recognizes GXM of C.n-AD and C.g-B to initiate host defense against cryptococcosis.

Ethnobotany of the genus Taraxacum-Phytochemicals and antimicrobial activity

Plants belonging to the genus Taraxacum have been used in traditional healthcare to treat infectious diseases including food-borne infections. This review aims to summarize the available information on Taraxacum spp., focusing on plant cultivation, ethnomedicinal uses, bioactive phytochemicals, and antimicrobial properties. Phytochemicals present in Taraxacum spp. include sesquiterpene lactones, such as taraxacin, mongolicumin B, and taraxinic acid derivatives; triterpenoids, such as taraxasterol, taraxerol, and officinatrione; and phenolic derivatives, such as hydroxycinnamic acids (chlorogenic, chicoric, and caffeoyltartaric acids), coumarins (aesculin and cichoriin), lignans (mongolicumin A), and taraxacosides. Aqueous and organic extracts of different plant parts exhibit promising in vitro antimicrobial activity relevant for controlling fungi and Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, this genus represents a potential source of bioactive phytochemicals with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, so far, preclinical evidence for these activities has not been fully substantiated by clinical studies. Indeed, clinical evidence for the activity of Taraxacum bioactive compounds is still scant, at least for infectious diseases, and there is limited information on oral bioavailability, pharmacological activities, and safety of Taraxacum products in humans, though their traditional uses would suggest that these plants are safe.