Structural characterisation of polysaccharides from roasted hazelnut skins

Polysaccharides from sea buckthorn - Ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction, purification, structural characterization, and antioxidant activity analysis

This study employed a sophisticated approach consisting of ultrasound-assisted enzyme treatment to extract polysaccharides from sea buckthorn (SBP). The SBP extraction parameters were optimized, the following optimal parameters were identified: solid-liquid ratio of 1:32 g/mL, ultrasound duration of 26 min, ultrasound temperature of 52 °C, and composite enzyme concentration of 6000 U/100 mL, and the maximum extraction yield of SBP was 24.07 ± 0.15 %. The separation and purification of SBP resulted in the isolation of three fractions of polysaccharides (SBPR-1, SBPR-2, SBPR-3). The composition and structural characteristics of the SBPRs were identified. Furthermore, the SBPRs exhibited the characteristic absorption peaks of polysaccharides. Notably, the surface microstructures of the SBPRs showed significant variations. Moreover, all SBPRs demonstrated commendable thermal stability and in vitro antioxidant activity. This study serves as a reference for the development and application of natural antioxidants and provides a theoretical foundation for the environmentally friendly and effective extraction of SBP.

Structure elucidation and anticancer activity of a heteropolysaccharide from white tea

White tea, one of the six traditional teas in China, is made only through natural withering and low-temperature drying processes. It demonstrates diverse pharmacological and health-promoting effects, including antioxidant, antiviral, anticancer, and hypolipidemic activities. Despite the significance of polysaccharides in white tea leaves, their fine structure and physiological functions remain unexplored. In this study, the polysaccharide fragment WTP-80a with anticancer activity was isolated and purified from white tea through water extraction, alcohol precipitation, DEAE-52 ion exchange column chromatography, and sephacryl S-200 dextran gel column chromatography. WTP-80a exhibited a molecular weight of 1.14 × 105 Da and consisted of galactose (Gal), arabinose (Ara), rhamnose (Rha), and glucuronic acid (Glc-UA). The main chain skeleton of WTP-80a contained 3,6)-β-Galp-(1→, 3)-α-Galp-(1→, 5)-α-Araf-(1 → and 3)-α-Glcp-UA-(1→. Branch chains included α-Araf-(1 → and β-Rhap-(1 → connected to the C3 and C6 positions of →3,6)-β-Galp-(1→, respectively. In vitro anticancer experiments revealed that WTP-80a effectively hindered the proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of B16F10 cells. Additionally, it induced apoptosis in B16F10 cells by blocking the G2/M phase, increasing active oxygen content, and reducing mitochondrial membrane potential. These findings provide a solid theoretical foundation for the application of white tea polysaccharides as anticancer products.

Hazelnut and its by-products: A comprehensive review of nutrition, phytochemical profile, extraction, bioactivities and applications

As output of hazelnut increases worldwide, so does the amount of by-products, leading to huge waste and environmental stress. This paper focuses on the varieties of hazelnut that have been studied more in the past two decades, and summarizes the research status of hazelnut and its by-products from the aspects of nutritional value, phytochemicals, extraction methods, biological functions and applications. Hazelnut and its by-products are rich in a variety of bioactive constituents, mainly polyphenols, which have antioxidant, antibacterial and prebiotic effects. Moreover, hazelnut shells, husks, and leaves contain taxanes such as paclitaxel, which can inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. They are potentially good natural sources of paclitaxel compared to the slower growing yew. Therefore, it is essential to further integrate the extraction techniques and health-promoting properties of these nutrients and bioactive substances to expand their application and enhance their value.

Extraction, characterization and anti-oxidant activity of polysaccharide from red Panax ginseng and Ophiopogon japonicus waste

Red ginseng and Ophiopogon japonicus are both traditional Chinese medicines. They have also been used as food in China for thousands of years. These two herbs were frequently used in many traditional Chinese patent medicines. However, the carbohydrate compositions of these two herbs were not normally used during the production of said medicine, such as Shenmai injection, resulting in a large amount of waste composed of carbohydrates. In this study, the extraction conditions were optimized by response surface methodology. The Shenmai injection waste polysaccharide was extracted by using distilled water that was boiled under the optimized conditions. The Shenmai injection waste polysaccharide (SMP) was thereby obtained. SMP was further purified by anion exchange chromatography and gel filtration. With this method, a neutral polysaccharide fraction (SMP-NP) and an acidic polysaccharide fraction (SMP-AP) were obtained. The results of structure elucidation indicated that SMP-NP was a type of levan, and SMP-AP was a typical acidic polysaccharide. SMP-NP exhibited potential stimulation activity on the proliferation of five different Lactobacilli strains. Therefore, SMP-AP could promote the antioxidant defense of IPEC-J2 cells. These findings suggest that Shenmai injection waste could be used as a resource for prebiotics and antioxidants.

Sex-dependent colonic microbiota modulation by hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) dietary fiber

Although many efforts have been made to characterize the functional properties of hazelnut constituents (mainly its oil, protein, and phenolics), those of its dietary fiber (DF) have not been elucidated yet. Here, we aimed to investigate the impact of DF of natural and roasted hazelnuts, and hazelnut skin on the colonic microbiota in vivo (C57BL/6J mouse models) by determining their composition through 16S rRNA sequencing and microbial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) using gas chromatography. Our results revealed that hazelnut DF generally showed an acetogenic effect in male mice, whereas the same trend was not observed in the female counterparts. The 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that hazelnut DF, especially that of natural hazelnuts, increased the relative abundances of Lactobacillus-related OTUs that have probiotic potential. LEfSe analysis indicated that, for female mice, Lachnospiraceae, Prevotella, Ruminococcaceae, and Lactobacillus were found to be discriminators for DF of natural hazelnuts, roasted hazelnuts, hazelnut skin, and control, respectively, whereas Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Prevotella, and Lactococcus were the discriminators for the male counterparts, respectively. This study clearly indicates that, although the roasting process slightly alters the functionalities, hazelnut DF favors beneficial microbes and stimulates beneficial microbial metabolites in the colon in a sex-dependent way, which could be a contributing factor to the health-promoting effects of hazelnuts. Furthermore, hazelnut skin, a byproduct of the hazelnut industry, was found to have potential to be utilized to produce functional DF targeting colonic health.

Structural characterization of corn fiber hemicelluloses extracted by organic solvent and screening of degradation enzymes

An integrated treatment coupling peracetic acid delignification, dimethyl sulfoxide extraction, and ethanol precipitation were performed to isolate hemicellulose from de-starched corn fiber. Based on chemical composition, molecular weight distribution, methylation, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, it is proposed that hemicelluloses in corn fiber were composed of two polysaccharides, glucuronoarabinoxylan (about 80 %) and xyloglucan (about 20 %). Xylose (about 46 %) and arabinose (about 32 %) were the main components in glucuronoarabinoxylan. More than half of the xylose units in the glucuronoarabinoxylan backbone chain were substituted at O-2 and/or O-3 by various monomers or oligomeric side chains. Based on structure analysis, five hemicellulases were selected and added to Penicillium oxalicum MCAX enzymes for enzymatic hydrolysis of corn fiber. The results showed that the addition of hemicellulases increased the sugar yield of corn fiber. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of enzyme consortium constructed by elucidating the chemical structure of hemicellulose in corn fiber for the degradation of corn fiber and also provide a general solution for the rational construction of targeted and efficient enzyme systems for the degradation of lignocellulosic biomass.

Valorisation of hazelnut by-products: current applications and future potential

Hazelnut is one of the most widely consumed nuts around the world. Considering the nutritional value of hazelnuts, a wide range of hazelnut-based food products are available in the market such as oil, chocolate, confectionery, etc. Nevertheless, the processing of hazelnuts generates a large number of by-products and waste. The most valuable by-products of the hazelnut industry are shell, skin, and meal. These by-products are rich in bioactive compounds, protein, dietary fibre, mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, phytosterols, and squalene. The current utilisation of hazelnut by-products is mostly limited to animal feed supplementation of hazelnut meal and skin and use as a low-value heat source for the shells. However, disposing of these by-products or using them as a low-value heat source or animal feed supplementation results in significant waste of a natural resource rich in nutritional components. Consequently, valorising hazelnut by-products as bioactive ingredients in diverse fields such as food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics has stimulated interest among scientists, producers, and consumers. This review provides an overview of current scientific knowledge about the main and most valuable hazelnut by-products and their actual valorisation, with a focus on their chemical composition to inspire new applications of these valuable resources and fully exploit their potential.

Isolation, Characterization, and Compositional Analysis of Polysaccharides from Pinot Noir Wines: An Exploratory Study

It has been reported that polysaccharides in wine can interact with tannins and other wine components and modify the sensory properties of the wine. Unfortunately, the contribution of polysaccharides to wine quality is poorly understood, mainly due to their complicated structure and varied composition. In addition, the composition and molecular structure of polysaccharides in different wines can vary greatly. In this study, the polysaccharides were isolated from pinot noir wine, then separated into high-molecular-weight (PNWP-H) and low-molecular-weight (PNWP-L) fractions using membrane-based ultrafiltration. Each polysaccharide fraction was further studied using size exclusion chromatography, UV-Vis, FT-IR, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-high-resolution mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results showed that PNWP-L and PNWP-H had different chemical properties and compositions. The FT-IR analysis showed that PNWPs were acidic polysaccharides with α- and β-type glycosidic linkages. PNWP-L and PNWP-H had different α- and β-type glycosidic linkage structures. FT-IR showed stronger antisymmetric and symmetric stretching vibrations of carboxylate anions of uronic acids in PNWP-L, suggesting more uronic acid in PNWP-L. The size exclusion chromatography results showed that over 72% of the PNWP-H fraction had molecular sizes from 25 kDa to 670 kDa. Only a small percentage of smaller molecular polysaccharides was found in the PNWP-H fraction. In comparison, all of the polysaccharides in the PNWP-L fraction were below 25 KDa, with a majority distributed approximately 6 kDa (95.1%). GC-MS sugar composition analysis showed that PNWP-L was mainly composed of galacturonic acid, rhamnose, galactose, and arabinose, while PNWP-H was mainly composed of mannose, arabinose, and galactose. The molecular size distribution and sugar composition analysis suggested that the PNWP-L primarily consisted of rhamnogalacturonans and polysaccharides rich in arabinose and galactose (PRAG). In comparison, PNWP-H were mostly mannoproteins and polysaccharides rich in arabinose and galactose (PRAG). Further research is needed to understand the impacts of these fractions on wine organoleptic properties.

Simulated digestion, dynamic changes during fecal fermentation and effects on gut microbiota of Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. fruit non-starch polysaccharides

•

Avicennia marina fruit non-starch polysaccharides (AMFPs) were obtained and analyzed.

•

Dynamic changes of AMFPs during simulated digestion and fermentation were revealed.

•

AMFPs were not digested by the digestive juice but were utilized by gut microbiota.

•

Beneficial microbiota, such as Mistuokella, and Prevotella were obviously increased.

•

Harmful bacteria were obviously inhibited and SCFA levels were obviously promoted.

Grey mangrove (Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh.) fruit is a traditional folk medicine and health food consumed in many countries. In this study, its polysaccharides (AMFPs) were obtained and analyzed by chemical and instrumental methods, with the results indicating that AMFPs consisted of galactose, galacturonic acid, arabinose, and rhamnose in a molar ratio of 4.99:3.15:5.38:1.15. The dynamic changes in AMFPs during the digestion and fecal fermentation processes were then investigated. The results confirmed that AMFPs were not depolymerized by gastric acid and various digestive enzymes. During fermentation, 56.05 % of the AMFPs were utilized by gut microbiota. Galacturonic acid, galactose, and arabinose from AMFPs, were mostly consumed by gut microbiota. AMFPs obviously decreased harmful bacteria and increased some beneficial microbiota, including Megasphaera, Mistuokella, Prevotella, and Megamonas. Furthermore, AMFPs obviously increased the levels of various short-chain fatty acids. These findings suggest that AMFPs have potential prebiotic applications for improving gut health.

Characterization of Polysaccharides Sequentially Extracted from Allium roseum Leaves and Their Hepatoprotective Effects against Cadmium Induced Toxicity in Mouse Liver

Allium roseum is one of the medicinal plants of the Liliaceae family, widely used in the food industry and traditional medicine. It is known for its various biological properties, such as its antioxidant, antiviral, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities. The present work aims to extract the polysaccharides from Allium roseum leaves and evaluate their antioxidant activities and hepatoprotective effects in vivo. Three polysaccharides from the leaves of Allium roseum were sequentially extracted in three media: water, chelating, and basic, respectively. They were characterized by size exclusion chromatography, gas chromatography mass spectrometry, FTIR-ATR, and NMR spectroscopy (1D and 2D). The different polysaccharides principally consist of glucose, galactose, mannose, rhamnose, xylose, and galacturonic acid. The antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effect of the extracts against Cd-caused oxidative stress in liver mouse were tested. Cd treatment, during 24 h, enhanced significantly lipid peroxidation by a high production of malondyaldehyd (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. In contrast, catalase activity (CAT) was decreased after the same period of exposure to the metal. The polysaccharides pre-treatment improved the antioxidant defense system to a great degree, mainly explained by the modulating levels of oxydative stress biomarkers (MDA, SOD, and CAT). This research clearly shows that Allium roseum polysaccharides, especially those extracted in aqueous medium, can be used as natural antioxidants with hepatoprotective properties.

Structural characterization of a pectic polysaccharide from laoshan green tea and its inhibitory effects on the production of NO, TNF-α and IL-6

A novel pectic polysaccharide, named GTPS3-1, was isolated and purified from Laoshan green tea polysaccharide (GTPS) through DEAE Sepharose Fast Flow and Sephacryl S-300 columns, its structure was characterized and its anti-inflammatory activity was explored. GTPS3-1, with a molecular weight of 26.05 kDa, was mainly composed of galacturonic acid, galactose, rhamnose and arabinose in a molar ratio of 4.72:2.5:1.68:1 on the basis of monosaccharide composition. Structural analysis results revealed that GTPS3-1 was a highly branched pectin consisting of →3)-Galp-(1→, →2)-Rhap-(1→, →3,5)-Araf-(1→, →3)-Rhap-(1→, GalpA-(1→, →3,4)-Galp-(1→, →4)-GalpA-(1→, →5)-Araf-(1→, →2,4)-Rhap-(1→, Rhap-(1→ and Araf-(1→ according to FT-IR, methylation and NMR analyses. In addition, GTPS3-1 inhibited the production of NO, TNF-α and IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner, which resulted in the amelioration of inflammatory injury in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. These results would provide a theoretical basis for practical application of the novel polysaccharide as an anti-inflammatory adjuvant.

Ultrasounds application for nut and coffee wastes valorisation via biomolecules solubilisation and methane production

Lignocellulosic materials (LMs) are abundant feedstocks with excellent potential for biofuels and biocommodities production. In particular, nut and coffee wastes are rich in biomolecules, e.g. sugars and polyphenols, the valorisation of which still has to be fully disclosed. This study investigated the effectiveness of ultrasounds coupled with hydrothermal (i.e. ambient temperature vs 80 °C) and methanol (MeOH)-based pretreatments for polyphenols and sugar solubilisation from hazelnut skin (HS), almond shell (AS), and spent coffee grounds (SCG). The liquid fraction obtained from the pretreated HS was the most promising in terms of biomolecules solubilisation. The highest polyphenols, i.e. 123.9 (±2.3) mg/g TS, and sugar, i.e. 146.0 (±3.4) mg/g TS, solubilisation was obtained using the MeOH-based medium. However, the MeOH-based media were not suitable for direct anaerobic digestion (AD) due to the MeOH inhibition during AD. The water-based liquors obtained from pretreated AS and SCG exhibited a higher methane potential, i.e. 434.2 (±25.1) and 685.5 (±39.5) mL CH₄/g glucose_in, respectively, than the HS liquors despite having a lower sugar concentration. The solid residues recovered after ultrasounds pretreatment were used as substrates for AD as well. Regardless the pretreatment condition, the methane potential of the ultrasounds pretreated HS, AS, and SCG was not improved, achieving maximally 255.4 (±7.4), 42.8 (±3.3), and 366.2 (±4.2) mL CH₄/g VS, respectively. Hence, the solid and liquid fractions obtained from HS, AS, and SCG showed great potential either as substrates for AD or, in perspective, for biomolecules recovery in a biorefinery context.

Enzyme-extracted raspberry pectin exhibits a high-branched structure and enhanced anti-inflammatory properties than hot acid-extracted pectin

To characterize the structure of purified raspberry pectin and discuss the impact of different extraction methods on the pectin structure, raspberry pectin was extracted by hot-acid and enzyme method and purified by stepwise ethanol precipitation and ion-exchange chromatography isolation. Enzyme-extracted raspberry pectin (RPE50%-3) presented relatively intact structure with molecular weight of 5 × 10⁴ g/mol and the degree of methylation was 39%. The 1D/2D NMR analysis demonstrated RPE50%-3 was a high-branched pectin mainly containing 50% homogalacturonan, 16% branched α-1,5-arabinan and α-1,3-arabinan, 18% β-1,4-galactan and β-1,6-galactan. Acid-extracted raspberry pectin (RPA50%-3) contained less arabinan than RPE50%-3. Moreover, RPE50%-3 inhibited the nitric oxide (NO), TNF-α, IL-6 production of lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophages by 67%, 22% and 46% at the dosage of 200 ug/mL, while the inhibitory rate of RPA50%-3 were 33%, 9%, and 1%, respectively. These results suggested that enzyme-extracted raspberry pectin contained more arabinan sidechains and exhibited better immunomodulatory effect.

Structural characterization, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity of polysaccharides from Plumula Nelumbinis

A polysaccharide from Plumula Nelumbinis (PNP), was isolated and purified. PNP had a molecular weight of 450 kDa and consisted five monosaccharides, including rhamnose, galacturonic acid, xylose, galactose, and arabinose. The methylation and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis revealed that the main glycosidic linkage types of PNP were →5)-α-L-Araf-(1→, →3)-β-D-Galp-(1→, β-D-Xylp-(→1, →3,4)-β-D-Rhap-(1→, →4)-β-D-GalpA-(1→. In the range of 25-1200 μg/mL, PNP had no cytotoxicity to RAW264.7 cells. PNP could protect RAW264.7 cell from oxidative damage by reducing the production of ROS and MDA and the secretion of LDH, enhancing the activity of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px, and increasing the content of GSH. Anti-inflammatory activity experiments showed that PNP inhibited the expression of NO, TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-1β, and IL-6. PNP could inhibit the activation of MAPK/NF-κB cell pathways. PNP could be used as a potential natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substance in functional foods and pharmaceuticals.

Effects of cast iron pipe corrosion on nitrogenous disinfection by-products formation in drinking water distribution systems via interaction among iron particles, biofilms, and chlorine

The effects of cast iron pipe corrosion on nitrogenous disinfection by-products formation (N-DBPs) in drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs) were investigated. The results verified that in the effluent of corroded DWDSs simulated by annular reactors with corroded cast iron coupons, typical N-DBPs, including haloacetamides, halonitromethanes, and haloacetonitriles, increased significantly compared with the influent of DWDSs. In addition, more dissolved organic carbon, adenosine triphosphate, and iron particles were simultaneously detected in the bulk water of corroded DWDSs, thereby indicating that abundant iron particles acted as a "protective umbrella" for microorganisms. Under the condition of corroded DWDSs, the extracellular polymeric substances gradually exhibited distinct characteristics, including a higher content and lower flocculation efficiency, thereby resulting in a large supply of N-DBPs precursors. Corroded cast iron pipes, equivalent to a unique microbial interface, induced completely distinct microbial community structures and metabolic functions in DWDSs, thereby enhancing the formation of N-DBPs. This is the first study to successfully reveal the interactions among iron particles, biofilms, and chlorine in DWDSs, which may help to fully understand the biofilm transformation and microbial community succession in DWDSs.

A polysaccharide isolated from Ganoderma lucidum ameliorates hyperglycemia through modulating gut microbiota in type 2 diabetic mice

In this study, we reported a thermal stable and non-toxic heteropolysaccharide F31, which decreased the blood glucose of diabetic mice (21.75 mmol/L) induced by high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) to 12.56 and 15.18 mmol/L (P < 0.01) at 180 and 60 mg/kg, depicting remarkable hypoglycemic effects of 42.25 and 30.21%. Moreover, F31 repaired islet cells and increased insulin secretion, promoted the synthesis and storage of glycogen in liver and improved activities of antioxidant enzymes and insulin resistances, declining HOMA-IR (43.77 mmol/mU) of diabetic mice (P < 0.01) to 17.32 and 20.96 mmol/mU at both doses. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that F31 significantly decreased Firmicutes (44.92%, P < 0.01) and enhanced Bacteroidetes (33.73%, P < 0.01) and then increased B/F ratio of diabetic mice to 0.6969 (P < 0.01), even being close to normal control (P = 0.9579). F31 enriched Lactobacillus, Bacteroides and Ruminococcaceae, which may relieve glucose, insulin resistance and inflammation through decreasing the release of endotoxins into the circulation from intestine, carbohydrate fermentation in gut and activation of the intestine-brain axis. Functionally, F31 improved metabolism of gut microbiota to a normal state. These results may provide novel insights into the beneficial effect of F31 against hyperglycemia.

Structural characteristics, anti-proliferative and immunomodulatory activities of a purified polysaccharide from Lactarius volemus Fr

Lactarius volemus Fr. is an edible mushroom widely consumed in China. Polysaccharide is an important nutritional component of L. volemus. This research aimed to isolate the polysaccharide from L. volemus and study its structure and bioactivities. A purified polysaccharide was identified and named as LVF-I whose primary structure was proposed considering the comprehensive results of monosaccharide composition, periodate oxidation-smith degradation, methylation analysis, FT-IR and 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy. Then the immunomodulation of LVF-I and its inhibition effect on H1299 and MCF-7 cells were investigated. Results showed that LVF-I (12,894 Da) contained fucose, mannose, glucose and galactose. It had a backbone consisting of →4)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, →6)-β-D-Manp-(1→, →6)-α-D-Galp-(1 → and →4)-β-D-Manp-(1→. And its side chains were branched at C2 of →4)-β-D-Manp-(1 → by →6)-α-D-Galp-(1→, α-D-Glcp-(1→, α-D-Galp-(1 → and α-L-Fucp-(1→. LVF-I (250-1000 μg/mL) could inhibit the proliferation of H1299 and MCF-7 cells, while enhance the proliferative response of splenocyte and the phagocytic ability of RAW264.7. Furthermore, LVF-I (250-1000 μg/mL) significantly induced the secretion of nitric oxide, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) by up-regulating their mRNA expression in macrophages. These results suggested that LVF-I had the potential to be developed as antitumor or immunomodulatory agents by inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells and stimulating macrophages-mediated immune responses.

Physicochemical Properties and Skin Protection Activities of Polysaccharides from Usnea longissima by Graded Ethanol Precipitation

Four Usnea longissima polysaccharides (ULPs; ULP15, ULP30, ULP50, and ULP70) were obtained from the lichen U. longissima via water extraction and graded ethanol precipitation. The obtained ULPs were all heteropolysaccharides with a few proteins, with which glucose was the major monosaccharide composition. With the increase in the precipitated ethanol concentrations, the content of galactose, xylose, and mannose increased, whereas that of glucose decreased. Moreover, the antioxidant activity test demonstrated that ULP15 exhibited better reducing power and stronger scavenging ability on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl free radicals. Importantly, ULP15 also had a better proliferative effect on human HaCaT keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts. Meanwhile, ULP15 protected HaCaT keratinocytes from UVB-induced proliferation inhibition and exhibited tyrosinase inhibition activity. Therefore, this work provides interesting insight into the preparation of cosmetic ingredients using the polysaccharide ULP15.

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Water-Soluble Polysaccharides from the Fruit of Acanthopanaxbrachypus: Physicochemical, Structural and Functional Properties

The ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) parameters of total water-soluble polysaccharides (TABPs) from Acanthopanaxbrachypus fruit were optimized by Box-Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Physicochemical, structural, and functional properties of TABPs were investigated by chemical analysis, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), water-holding capacity (WHC), oil-holding capacity (OHC), emulsion capacity (EC), emulsion stability (ES), as well as DPPH^. and ABTS^.+ scavenging assays. The results showed that the maximal UAE-yield of TABPs was 3.81±0.18 % under the optimal conditions (ultrasonic power 325 W, extraction temperature 47 °C, extraction time 22 min). TABPs was rich in some beneficial element (Mg, K, Fe, Zn and Na) but little in harmful elements (Hg, Cd, As and Pb), and displayed rough surface with flake-like features and large dents, contained 93.89±0.08 % of total carbohydrate with more different monosaccharides including glucose, galactose, rhamnose, arabinose, mannose, xylose, and uronic acid in a molar ratio of 8.83 : 7.90 : 4.74 : 4.55 : 2.80 : 2.39 : 1.00, respectively. TABPs exhibited broad weight distribution (11.2-133.5 kDa), excellent thermal stability (>280 °C), WHC (0.61±0.08 g water/g sample) and OHC (4.53±0.12 g oil/g sample), as well as higher EC (43.75±1.23 %) and ES (38.32±1.50 %). Furthermore, TABPs also displayed remarkable scavenging activities on DPPH^. and ABTS^.+ in vitro. These findings provide a scientific basis for the applications of TABPs in functional additives for food, medicine, and cosmetics.

Strontium Laminarin polysaccharide modulates osteogenesis-angiogenesis for bone regeneration

Bone regeneration and repair has become one of the major clinical challenges worldwide and it involves multiple processes including inflammation, angiogenesis and osteogenesis. In this study, we synthesized strontium Laminarin polysaccharide (LP-Sr), a novel polysaccharide-metal complex that should have therapeutic effects on modulating osteogenesis and angiogenesis. The structure and composition of the as-fabricated LP-Sr were analyzed by EDS, XRD, FITR, ¹H NMR, HPLC, etc. The results indicate that we successfully synthesized this novel polysaccharide complex. Moreover, we evaluated the biomedical potential of this complex in promoting osteogenesis and angiogenesis by cell proliferation assay, ALP staining, immunofluorescent staining of CD31 and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The biological experiment results show that LP-Sr can effectively promote proliferation and increase the expression of VEGF and EGFL6 in HUVECs and significantly up-regulate the expression of Col1α1 and OCN in MC3T3-E1. Besides, it is suggested that LP-Sr has positive effects on the suppression of pro-inflammatory factor IL6 in both HUVECs and MC3T3-E1. Moreover, the osteogenic and angiogenic markers, i.e. alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and CD31, exhibited high expression in LP-Sr group. Hence, we believe that LP-Sr should be a promising and novel polysaccharide complex in modulating osteogenesis-angiogenesis for bone regeneration.

Structural characterization of a polysaccharide from Lycium barbarum and its neuroprotective effect against β-amyloid peptide neurotoxicity

A water-soluble polysaccharide, designated as LBP-3, was isolated and purified from Lycium barbarum. Chemical analysis indicated that LBP-3 was composed of arabinose and galactose at a molar ratio of 1.00:1.56. The average molecular weight of LBP-3 was 6.74 × 104 Da. The structural features of LBP-3 were investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), methylation, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). LBP-3 is a highly branched polysaccharide with a backbone of 1, 3-linked β-Galp, which is partially substituted at C-6. The branches contain 1, 5-linked α-Araf, 1, 6-linked β-Galp, 1, 3-linked α-Araf, and 1, 4-linked α-Araf. In vitro studies revealed that LBP-3 induced a concentration-dependent decrease in the levels of Aβ42/Aβ40 in N2a/APP695 cells. Proteomic analysis was conducted to investigate the potential molecular mechanism underlying the neuroprotective effect of LBP-3, and the results suggested that LBP-3 might have the potential for the treatment of AD.

Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from perilla seed meal by response surface methodology: Characterization and in vitro antioxidant activities

In this study, response surface methodology was employed to optimize the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) process of perilla seed meal polysaccharides (PSMP). The optimal conditions for UAE of PSMP were: liquid-solid ratio of 26.00 mL/g, ultrasonic temperature of 43.00 °C, ultrasonic time of 52.00 min, and ultrasonic power of 229.00 W, the optimal conditions lead to an yield of 6.137 ± 0.062%. The structural characteristics of molecular weight, compositional monosaccharides, and glycosidic linkages were determined by size exclusion chromatography with multiangle light scattering, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Fourier-transfer infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance detections. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that many holes were formed on the surface of PSM after UAE. The antioxidant activities of PSMP were investigated using various assays in vitro. The results suggested that PSMP is potential natural resource of antioxidants for medicine and functional foods. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The selection of raw material perilla seed meal is conducive to the comprehensive utilization of edible resources. With consumer demands for newly developed foods with natural, wholesome ingredients are increasing nowadays. This study provides effective reference for in-depth research on other medicine-food dual-use resources. Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) is a promising alternative method for hot water reflux extraction (HWRE) of polysaccharides for advantages of high efficiency and energy saving. In this work, the UAE process optimized by response surface methodology is more suitable for industrial application that can effectively decrease total cost of production by reducing the extraction temperature, shortening extraction time, and increasing raw material utilization.

Bioactive structural basis of proteoglycans from Sarcandra glabra based on spectrum-effect relationship

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Proteoglycans are one of the active ingredients of great importance in Sarcandra glabra. The biological activities of proteoglycans extracted from Sarcandra glabra including suppressing tumor growth and antioxidant activity were studied. However, raw materials from different regions may cause differences in the activity of natural extracts, especially for bioactive biomacromolecules. Conventional identification of S.glabra cannot accurately reflect the distinguishing relationship between internal components and the pharmacological activity. The identification of biologically active structures was obtained by constructing multiple fingerprint and spectrum-effect relationship.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the bioactive structural basis of proteoglycans from S.glabra based on spectrum-effect relationship and chemometric methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multiple fingerprinting including HPSEC, PMP-HPLC, and FT-IR of proteoglycans was established from 18 batches of samples based on the structural characteristics. Both antitumor activity and antioxidant activity were determined. Mathematical analysis was used to analyze the spectrum-effect relationship.

RESULTS

PCA results showed monosaccharides including Xly, Rha, and GlcA, carboxyl group in acidic sugars, peptide bond in proteins, and methylene groups could be used as markers for distinguishing the samples from different sources. The results of the spectrum-effect relationship analysis indicated that the bioactive markers of inhibitory activity on MG63 and U2OS cells by PLS-DA were related to GlcA, Xyl, Fuc, β-glycosidic bonds, peptide linkage, and methylene groups. Markers composing monosaccharide for antioxidant activity were Xyl, GlcA, and GlcN. Meanwhile, the group markers were pyranose ring, carboxyl group, peptide linkage, and methylene structure.

CONCLUSIONS

The material basis that affects the pharmacological efficacy could be found according to the spectrum-effect relationship analysis. This study could lay a foundation for further exploring the relationship between structural characteristics and pharmacodynamics of macromolecular glycoconjugates in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Evaluating the Suitability of Hazelnut Skin as a Feed Ingredient in the Diet of Dairy Cows

Simple Summary

Agriculture is estimated to generate about 700 million tons of waste annually in the Eurpoean Union (EU). Most of the by-products derived from the agricultural industry become organic waste, thus resulting in the loss of valuable nutrients and bioactive compounds and causing environmental and economic issues. Increasing the efficiency of waste management is a major global challenge that must be met in order to minimize the abovementioned negative impacts. Some agro-industrial by-products can be valorized by their inclusion in feed formulations. Hazelnut skin is a by-product of the hazelnut industry. It is a good source of phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, and vitamin E. In this study, we evaluated the productive performance of dairy cows in response to the inclusion of hazelnut skin in the diet. We observed no effects of hazelnut skin on either the milk production level or fat and protein contents. The oleic acid concentration in milk was strongly increased by including hazelnut skin in the cows’ diet. Improvements in the antioxidant activity and sustainability of milk production in terms of food–feed competition were also observed. These results are of practical application for feed manufacturers and farmers, as they support the inclusion of sustainable and low-cost feed ingredients in ruminant diets, with the aim of supporting the expected increase in livestock production in the upcoming years.

Abstract

Hazelnut skin (HS) was evaluated as a source of nutrients for dairy cows. In total, 26 Aosta Red Pied cows were divided into two balanced groups. All cows were fed hay ad libitum. The control group was also given 6 kg of concentrate, while the hazelnut skin group (HAZ) was given 1 kg of the same concentrate that was substituted by 1 kg of HS. The dry matter intake of the cows was reduced by the dietary inclusion of HS (p ≤ 0.001). The milk yield and main constituents were unaffected by treatment. Milk from HAZ cows showed decreased concentrations of de novo saturated fatty acids (FAs), odd- and branched-chain FA, α-linolenic acid, and long-chain n-3 FAs, as well as increased concentrations of stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, total monounsaturated FAs, trans biohydrogenation intermediates, and α–tocopherol. Replacing the concentrate with HS increased the human-inedible feed quota in the diet and improved the sustainability of milk production in terms of the food-feed competition. Our results suggest that it is possible to add economic value to organic waste from the hazelnut industry using HS as a feed ingredient for dairy cows, enhancing the feed efficiency and milk antioxidant activity and having expected impacts on the nutraceutical quality of milk fat.

Rethinking the impact of RG-I mainly from fruits and vegetables on dietary health

Rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I) pectin is composed of backbone of repeating disaccharide units →2)-α-L-Rhap-(1→4)-α-D-GalpA-(1→ and neutral sugar side-chains mainly consisting of arabinose and galactose having variable types of linkages. However, since traditional pectin extraction methods damages the RG-I structure, the characteristics and health effects of RG-I remains unclear. Recently, many studies have focused on RG-I, which is often more active than the homogalacturonan (HG) portion of pectic polysaccharides. In food products, RG-I is common to fruits and vegetables and possesses many health benefits. This timely and comprehensive review describes the many different facets of RG-I, including its dietary sources, history, metabolism and potential functionalities, all of which have been compiled to establish a platform for taking full advantage of the functional value of RG-I pectin.

Extraction, Characterization, Antitumor and Immunological Activities of Hemicellulose Polysaccharide from Astragalus radix Herb Residue

Astragalus radix (radix) have been frequently used for clinical application in China, and the herb residues of radix turn out to be a waste of resources. To escape from this, the medicine value of radix herb residues is mined in this article. We isolated hemicellulose polysaccharide AX-I-3b from radix herb residues by fractional extraction. Monosaccharide-composition analysis revealed that AX-I-3b consisted of arabinose, xylose, and glucose with a molar ratio of 10.4:79.3:1.1. Methylation, NMR and FT-IR analyses showed that AX-I-3b monosaccharide residue was linked as follows: →2,3,4)-β-d-Xylp-(1→, →4)-β-d-Arap-(1→, →4)-β-d-Glcp-(1→. Then, we found that AX-I-3b exhibited antitumor activity against lung cancer in vitro and vivo through MTT assay and xenograft tumor model. Mechanistically, AX-I-3b induced apoptosis in lung cancer cells and xenograft tumors, which is evidenced by the up-regulation of p53, Bax and cleaved caspase-3, and the down-regulation of Bcl-2. Moreover, AX-I-3b synergistically improved the therapeutic ability of cisplatin in xenograft tumors model. Furthermore, AX-I-3b treatment effectively improved the immune organ index, the percentage of spleen lymphocyte subsets and serum cytokine levels in lung cancer mice, supporting that AX-I-3b showed immunomodulatory activity. In conclusion, our results identified AX-I-3b as an antitumor and immunomodulatory agent, providing a new insight into the reutilization of radix herb residue.