Structural characterization of polysaccharides from Saposhnikovia divaricata and their antagonistic effects against the immunosuppression by the culture supernatants of melanoma cells on RAW264.7 macrophages

Metabolic profiling and gene expression analyses shed light on the cold adaptation mechanisms of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk

The northeastern region of China experiences a distinctly cold climate influenced by the Siberian High during the winter months, thus resulting in severe cold weather conditions. Snow cover is prevalent and can persist for several months. This prolonged exposure to low temperatures necessitates specific adaptations in terms of agriculture and plant life, particularly for perennial herbs. Saposhnikovia divaricate (Turcz.) Schischk (SD) is a widely distributed perennial herb in the northeastern and northern provinces of China. However, there is limited documentation on the molecular mechanism through which this plant adapts to cold stress. Therefore, we elucidated the SD response to cold stress by transcriptome and metabolome analysis. Cold stress induced chlorosis and wilting in plants, thus leading to added function of antioxidant enzymes and higher levels of malondialdehyde, proline, soluble sugars. Notably, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were primarily related with sugar metabolism, ROS sweep, flavonoid and terpenoid biosynthesis, plant hormone signalling pathways, lipid metabolism, and transcription factors. Additionally, the differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) mainly included lipids, flavonoids, terpenoid compounds, sugar-related metabolites, alkaloids and other metabolites. Furthermore, integrated analysis revealed coexpression patterns between carbohydrate metabolism-related genes and genes reference flavonoid and terpenoid biosynthesis, along with their corresponding metabolites. Finally, the qPCR results revealed notable over-expression levels of stress-related genes, including those participated in plant hormone signalling pathways (PP2C and AUX), flavonoid biosynthesis (CH3), antioxidant enzymes (AOX and CAT), and sugar-related metabolite metabolism (TPS, SPS, and SS). In conclusion, our findings suggest that cold stress strongly affects plant hormone signalling pathways, ROS scavenging mechanisms, unsaturated fatty acid synthesis and flavonoid and terpenoid biosynthesis in SD. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the impact of cold climates on herbaceous plants.

Acidic polysaccharides from Cistanche deserticola and their effects on the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages

Three purified polysaccharides, CDAP-1, CDAP-2, and CDAP-3, were prepared from the rhizome of Cistanche deserticola and characterized. Structural analysis revealed that CDAP-1 and CDAP-2 are highly branched RG-I-type polysaccharides with side chains, including arabinans, galactans, and/or AGs, whereas CDAP-3 is a typical HG-type polysaccharide. In vivo tests revealed that treatment with the crude polysaccharide fraction (CDCP) significantly prolonged the survival of H22 tumor-bearing mice and exhibited antitumor effects. In vitro experiments demonstrated that all three polysaccharides could polarize M2-like TAMs toward the M1 phenotype. As a major component of CDCP, CDAP-2 could act on M2 macrophages through the TLR4 receptor-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway. An in vitro cell model verified that CDAP-2 could inhibit cell proliferation by reversing the polarization of M2-like TAMs to the cytotoxic M1 phenotype. Overall, we found that CDCP showed a clear antitumor effect and that its major component, CDAP-2, could reverse the suppressive TAM phenotype in the microenvironment, providing a scientific basis for the clinical application and development of C. deserticola.

Novel SARS-CoV-2 inhibition properties of the anti-cancer Kang Guan Recipe herbal formula

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a persistent challenge, with continued breakthrough infections despite vaccination efforts. This has spurred interest in alternative preventive measures, including dietary and herbal interventions. Previous research has demonstrated that herbal medicines can not only inhibit cancer progression but also combat viral infections, including COVID-19 by targeting SARS-CoV-2, indicating a multifaceted potential to address both viruses and cancer. Here, we found that the Kang Guan Recipe (KGR), a novel herbal medicine formula, associates with potent inhibition activity against the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. We demonstrate that KGR exhibits inhibitory activity against several SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs). Mechanistically, we found that KGR can block the interaction of the viral spike and human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Furthermore, we assessed the inhibitory effect of KGR on SARS-CoV-2 viral entry in vivo, observing that serum samples from healthy human subjects having taken KGR exhibited suppressive activity against SARS-CoV-2 variants. Our investigation provides valuable insights into the potential of KGR as a novel herbal-based preventive and therapeutic strategy against COVID-19.

Chemical constituents from the Saposhnikovia divaricata and their antiproliferative activity

Nine compounds were isolated and identified from ethanolic extracts of Saposhnikovia divaricata, including one new alkaloid (1), one new pentacyclic triterpenoid (9), and seven known alkaloids (2-8). Structural elucidation of compounds 1 and 9 was established by 1D and 2D NMR spectra referring to the literature, together with high-resolution mass spectrometric analysis. All compounds were evaluated for antiproliferative activity against two cancer cell lines (LN229, A549) in vitro. Compounds (1-9) showed no significant antiproliferative activity.

Chemical structure and immunomodulatory activity of a polysaccharide from Saposhnikoviae Radix

A new polysaccharide, named SP40015A01, was obtained from Saposhnikoviae Radix by water extraction, isolation and purification. SP40015A01 (9.7 × 105 Da) is composed of Rhamnose (Rha), Galacturonic acid (GalA), Galactose (Gal), and Arabinose (Ara) with the proportion of 1.6:85.6:5.8:7.6. The backbone of SP40015A01 is composed of 3-α-GalAp, 2-α-GalAp, 2,3-β-GalAp and 2,3-β-Galp, and branched at C3 of 2,3-β-GalAp, C3 of 2,3-β-Galp. Zebrafish experiments were used to explore the immunomodulatory activity of SP40015A01. Results showed that SP40015A01 could significantly improve the neutrophils density of immunocompromised zebrafish and reduce the content of nitric oxide (NO) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). This study demonstrated that SP40015A01 has significant immunomodulatory activity, which can improve the neutrophils density and reduce inflammatory factor content, suggesting SP40015A01 may be a potential immunomodulator in Saposhnikoviae Radix (SR) for treatment of hypoimmunity related disease. This study supplemented the research on the polysaccharide components in traditional Chinese medicine and provided a scientific explanation for the development and clinical applications of SR.

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction of a low molecular weight polysaccharide from Nostoc commune Vaucher and its structural characterization and immunomodulatory activity

In the current study, a novel crude polysaccharide (cNCEP) was extracted from N. commune Vaucher utilizing ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) with 60 % ethanol, employing response surface methodology. The optimal yield of cNCEP was determined to be 8.07 ± 0.08 mg/g, achieved through ultrasonic-assisted extraction under the conditions of a material-to-liquid ratio of 1:22, temperature of 56 °C, power of 570 W, and duration of 147 min. Subsequent purification of NCEP via Sephadex G75 resulted in a novel polysaccharide with a molecular weight of 20.466 kDa. NCEP exhibited significant scavenging activites against DPPH and hydroxyl radicals, as well as notable in vitro immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, the mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory effects of NCEP, involving enhancement of immunity, were investigated, revealing potential regulation of MAPK and TLR4-IRF7-NF-κB signaling pathways through RNA-Seq and Western blot analyses. These findings highlight the promising potential of NCEP as an organic immunomodulatory agent and functional food ingredient.

Isolation, structural characterization and immunomodulatory activity on RAW264.7 cells of a novel exopolysaccharide of Dictyophora rubrovalvata

Fungal polysaccharides have been explored by many for both structural studies and biological activities, but few studies have been done on the extracellular polysaccharides of Dictyophora rubrovalvata, so a new exopolysaccharide was isolated from Dictyophora rubrovalvata and its structure and its immunological activity were investigated. The crude exopolysaccharide (EPS) was purified by DEAE52 cellulose and Sephadex G-200 to obtain a new acidic polysaccharide (DR-EPS). DR-EPS (2.66 × 103 kDa) was consisted mainly of mannose, glucose, galactose and glucuronic acid with a molar ratio of 1: 0.86: 0.20: 0.01. In addition, DR-EPS increased the phagocytic activity of RAW264.7 cells up to 2.67 times of the blank control group. DR-EPS improved intracellular nucleic acid and glycogen metabolism as observed by AO and PAS staining. DR-EPS(40 μg/mL) promoted NO production up to 30.66 μmol, enhanced acid phosphatase (ACP) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, with activity maxima of 660 U/gprot and 96.27 U/mgprot, respectively, and DR-EPS (160 μg / mL) significantly increased the lysozyme content as 2.73 times of the control group. The good immunological activity of extracellular polysaccharides of Dictyophora rubrovalvata provides directions for the use of fermentation broths.

An integrated strategy for rapid discovery and identification of the potential effective fragments of polysaccharides from Saposhnikoviae Radix

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Saposhnikoviae Radix (SR) is a traditional Chinese medicine, known as "Fangfeng". As one of the main active components, Saposhnikoviae Radix polysaccharides (SP) demonstrated a range of biological activities, especially immunity regulation activity.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study aimed at exploring whether polysaccharides have activity after degradation, then discovering the potential effective fragments of SP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Here we establish the chromatographic fingerprints method for 32 batches of 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (PMP) derivatives of oligosaccharides by HPLC, meanwhile evaluating its immunomodulatory activity in vivo. Then, the potential effective fragments of SP were screened out based on the spectrum-effect relationship analysis between fingerprints and the pharmacological results. Besides, liquid chromatography ion trap-time of flight mass spectrometry (LC-IT-TOF MS) coupled with multiple data-mining techniques was used to identify the potential effective oligosaccharides.

RESULTS

These findings showed that the hydrolysate of SP have significant immunomodulatory, and the immunity regulation activity varies under different hydrolysis conditions. The 4 potential effective peaks of the hydrolysate of SP were mined by spectrum-effect relationship. Finally, the chemical structure of 4 potential effective oligosaccharide fragments of SP was elucidated based on LC-IT-TOF MS. F10 was inferred tentatively to be Hex1→6Hex1→6Hex1→6Hex1→6Hex1→6Gal; F18 was confirmed to be Rhamnose; F14 was inferred tentatively to be Hex1→4Hex1→ 4Hex1→4Gal and F25 was tentatively inferred to be Ara1→6Gal.

CONCLUSIONS

This study may provide a sound experimental foundation in the exploration of the active fragments from macromolecular components with relatively complex structures such as polysaccharides.

Extraction, purification, structural characteristics and biological properties of the polysaccharides from Radix Saposhnikoviae: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Radix Saposhnikoviae (R. Saposhnikoviae), commonly known as FangFeng, is a renowned medicinal herb in China extensively utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. It expels pathogenic wind from the body surface, alleviates pain by removing dampness, and relieves convulsion. Therefore, it is mainly used for treating exterior syndrome, itchy wind papules, rheumatic arthralgia, and splenic asthenia-induced dampness. R. saposhnikoviae has important medicinal value, and the polysaccharide component is one of its important active ingredients.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review summarizes the factors influencing the content of polysaccharides in R. Saposhnikoviae (PRSs), the techniques employed for their extraction, separation, and purification, their structural characterization, and their biological activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant research reports on PRSs were collected from the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Web of Science, PubMed, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, China Master Theses Full-text Database, and China Doctoral Dissertations Full-text Database.

RESULTS

The content of PRSs can vary depending on cultivation methods and harvesting time. PRSs were extracted using various extraction techniques such as hot water, ultrasonic-assisted, microwave-assisted, and enzymatic extractions, as well as water extraction and alcohol precipitation. Effective purification methods involve protein removal using trifluoro-trichloroethane and the decolorization of the polysaccharide using column chromatography with D280 anion exchange resins. Current research highlights the significant pharmacological activities of PRSs in R. Saposhnikoviae, including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-allergic, anti-cancer, and anti-osteoporotic effects as well as prevention of calcium loss and maintenance of mucosal function.

CONCLUSIONS

PRSs play a crucial role as bioactive constituents of R. Saposhnikoviae, exhibiting diverse biological activities and promising applications. A deeper understanding of PRSs will contribute to the improved utilization of R. Saposhnikoviae and the development of related derivatives of the active ingredients.

Advances in Phytochemistry and Modern Pharmacology of Saposhnikovia Divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk

Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk (S. divaricata, Fangfeng) is a herb in the Apiaceae family, and its root has been used since the Western Han Dynasty (202 B.C.). Chromones and coumarins are the pharmacologically active substances in S. divaricata. Modern phytochemical and pharmacological studies have demonstrated their antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and anticoagulant activities. Technological and analytical strategy theory advancements have yielded novel results; however, most investigations have been limited to the main active substances-chromones and coumarins. Hence, we reviewed studies related to the chemical composition and pharmacological activity of S. divaricata, analyzed the developing trends and challenges, and proposed that research should focus on components' synergistic effects. We also suggested that, the structure-effect relationship should be prioritized in advanced research.

Structural properties and immune-enhancing activities of galactan isolated from red seaweed Grateloupia filicina

A water-soluble polysaccharide (GFP) was isolated from Grateloupia filicina and fractionated using a DEAE Sepharose Fast Flow column to evaluate immunostimulatory activity. Carbohydrates (62.0%-68.4%) and sulfates (29.3%-34.3%) were the major components of GFP and its fractions (GFP-1 and GFP-2), with relatively lower levels of proteins (4.5%-15.4%) and uronic acid (1.4%-3.9%). The average molecular weight (Mw ) for GFP and its fractions was calculated between 98.2%-243.7 kDa. The polysaccharides were composed of galactose (62.1%-87.2%), glucose (4.5%-33.2%), xylose (3.1%-5.3%), mannose (1.4%-2.2%), rhamnose (1.2%-2.0%), and arabinose (0.9%-1.7%) units connected through →3)-Galp-(1→, →4)-Galp-(1→, →2)-Galp-(1→, →6)-Galp-(1→, →3,4)-Galp -(1→, →3,6)-Galp-(1→, →4,6)-Galp-(1→, →3,4,6)-Galp-(1→, →2,3)-Galp-(1→, →2,4)-Galp-(1→, →4)-Glcp-(1→, →6)-Glcp-(1→ and →4,6)-Glcp-(1→residues. The isolated polysaccharides effectively induced RAW264.7 murine macrophages by releasing nitric oxide (NO) and various cytokines via nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Further, the expression of toll-like receptor-2 (TLR-2) and TLR-4 in RAW264.7 cells indicated their activation through TLR-2 and TLR-4 binding receptors. Among the polysaccharides, GFP-1 highly stimulated the activation of RAW264.7 cells, which was mainly constituted of (→1) terminal-D-galactopyranosyl, (1→3)-linked-ᴅ-galactopyranosyl, (1→4)-linked-ᴅ-galactopyranosyl and (1→3,4) -linked-ᴅ-galactopyranosyl residues. These findings demonstrate that GFP-1 from G. filicina are effective at stimulating the immune system and this warrants further investigation to determine potential biomedical applications.

Structure characterization and immunomodulatory activity of a polysaccharide from Saposhnikoviae Radix

A new polysaccharide, named SP800201 with Mw of 2.17 × 10⁵ g/mol, was isolated from Saposhnikoviae Radix. The monosaccharide composition of SP800201 mainly contained Gal, GalA, Ara, and Rha. SP800201 has a core structure containing GalA as the backbone and side chains consisting of GalA, Gal, Ara and Rha. Cell and zebrafish experiments were used to explore the immunomodulatory activity of SP800201. Results of vitro RAW264.7 cell experiments showed that SP800201 could significantly improve the proliferation and phagocytosis of macrophages, and promote the release of NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Results of vivo experiments in immunocompromised zebrafish showed that SP800201 could also significantly increase the density of immune cells, the number of macrophages, and reduce NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. The above results showed that the Saposhnikoviae Radix polysaccharide has certain immunomodulatory activity.

Network pharmacology-based analysis of the mechanism of Saposhnikovia divaricata for the treatment of type I allergy

CONTEXT

Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk (Apiaceae) (SD) has various pharmacological activities, but its effects on type I allergy (TIA) have not been comprehensively studied.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the treatment and molecular mechanisms of SD against TIA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effective components and action targets of SD were screened using TCMSP database, and allergy-related targets of SD were predicted using GeneCards and OMIM database. The obtained target intersections were imported into David database for GO analysis, and used R software to perform KEGG analysis. The RBL-2H3 cells sensitised by DNP-IgE/DNP-BSA were treated with different concentrations of SD (root decoction, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/mL), prim-O-glucosylcimifugin (POG, 10, 40, and 80 μg/mL) and the positive control drug-ketotifen fumarate (KF, 30 μM) for 12 h, then subjected to cell degranulation and qPCR analysis.

RESULTS

Eighteen active compounds of SD and 38 intersection targets were obtained: TIA-related signal pathways mainly include calcium signal pathway, PI3K-Akt signal pathway and MAPK signal pathway. Taking the β-Hex release rate of the model group as the base, the release rate of SD and POG in high dose groups were 43.79% and 57.01%, respectively, which were significantly lower than model group (p < 0.01), and significantly lower than KF group (63.83%, p < 0.01, p < 0.05). SD and POG could down-regulate the expression of related proteins in the Lyn/Syk, PI3K/AKT and MAPK signalling pathways.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Saposhnikovia divaricata could inhibit IgE-induced degranulation of mast cells, providing a scientific basis for further research and clinical applications of SD in TIA treatment.

Plant polysaccharides as novel biomaterials for microcapsule construction and therapeutics delivery

Natural polysaccharides derived from medicinal plants, that are Dendrobium (DPS), Lycium barbarum (LBP), Ginseng (GPS), and Poria Cocos (PCP) were firstly combined with sodium alginate (SA) to construct microcapsules and improved the morphology, encapsulation efficiency, Biocompatibility and protective capability in drug loading. Diverse typical therapeutics, including VO₂@ZIF67 nanoparticles, small molecule drugs salvianolic acid B (SaB)/ginsenoside (Rg1), probiotic Bacillus bifidus, and biomacromolecules SDF-1 were wrapped into 1.5 % GPS-0.5 % SA model microcapsules, respectively. Better mobility and formability were significantly observed, and showed 75 % survival rate of probiotics in simulated gastric juice and around 99 % encapsulation efficiency which is higher than single 2 % SA microcapsules. The microcapsules also obtained a delayed release and a higher cell index for SDF-1, which indicated better stability, biocompatibility and protective effect than single 2 % SA microcapsules. This study provides a strategy in developing plant derived polysaccharides as novel materials for the construction and improvement of traditional microcapsules.

Multiple Fingerprints and Spectrum-Effect Relationship of Polysaccharides from Saposhnikoviae Radix

PMP-HPLC, FT-IR, and HPSEC fingerprints of 10 batches of polysaccharides from Saposhnikoviae Radix with different production areas and harvest times have been prepared, and the chemometrics analysis was performed. The anti-allergic activity of 10 batches of Saposhnikoviae Radix polysaccharide (SP) was evaluated, and the spectrum-effect relationship of the 10 batches of SP was analyzed by gray correlation degree with the chromatographic fingerprint as the independent variable. The results showed that the PMP-HPLC, HPSEC, and FT-IR fingerprints of 10 batches of SP had a high similarity. Two monosaccharides (rhamnose and galactose), the polysaccharide fragment Mn = 8.67 × 106~9.56 × 106 Da, and the FT-IR absorption peak of 892 cm−1 can be used as the quality control markers of SPs. All 10 batches of SP could significantly inhibit the release of β-HEX in RBL-231 cells, and the polysaccharides harvested from Inner Mongolia in the winter had the best anti-allergic activity. The spectrum-effect relationship model showed that the monosaccharide composition and molecular weight were related to the anti-allergic activity of the SPs. Multiple fingerprints combined with spectrum-effect relationship analysis can evaluate and control the quality of SPs from the aspects of overall quality and efficacy, which has more application value.

Immunological effect of fucosylated chondroitin sulfate and its oligomers from Holothuria fuscogilva on RAW 264.7 cells

Fucosylated chondroitin sulfate was obtained from the sea cucumber Holothuria fuscogilva (FCShf). The structure was elucidated by NMR and HILIC-FTMS analysis. FCShf contained a chondroitin core chain [→3)-β-D-GalNAc-(1 → 4)-β-D-GlcA-(1→]_n, where the sulfation positions were the O-4 or O-6 of the GalNAc residues. The ratio of sulfated and non-sulfated GalNAc at O-6 was 1:2, while the ratio of GalNAc at O-4 was 1:1. 2,4-disulfated-fucose (Fuc2,4S), 4-sulfated-fucose (Fuc4S) and 3,4-disulfated-fucose (Fuc3,4S) were attached to the O-3 of GlcA with a molar ratio of 1.00: 0.62: 1.32. The FCShf could significantly promote the proliferative rate, NO production and neutral red uptake of RAW 264.7 cells within the concentration range of 10-300 μg/mL. Compared with the fucosylation and deacetylation degrees, the molecular weight of FCShf had markedly influence on the activation of RAW 264.7 cells. A decrease in molecular weight dramatically improved the immunoregulatory activities. Furthermore, FCShf activated RAW 264.7 cells through TLR-2/4-NF-κB pathway.

Structural features and anticancer mechanisms of pectic polysaccharides: A review

The anticancer activity of pectic polysaccharides (PPs) was proved by numerous studies, and which also indicated that the bioactivity of PPs was closely related to its complicated structures. Based on the summary and analysis about structure characteristics and corresponding enzymatic process of the reported PPs, the anticancer mechanism and related structural features were systematically clarified. It was found that not only the direct effects on the cancer cells by proliferation inhibition or apoptosis, but also the regulation of immune system, gut microbiota and gut metabolism as indirect effects, jointly played important roles in the anticancer of PPs. Nevertheless, during the study of PPs as promising anticancer components, the exact structure-function relationship, digestion process in vivo, and comprehensive action mechanism are still not well understanding. With the unveiling of the proposed issues, it is believed that PPs are promising to be exploited as effective cancer therapy/adjunctive therapy drugs or functional foods.

Isolation and identification of an arabinogalactan extracted from pistachio external hull: Assessment of immunostimulatory activity

This work studies the extraction and purification of a novel arabinogalactan from pistachio external hull. It was extracted with a simple method from pistachio hull which is considered as unexploited waste. Based on the results of sugar analysis by GC-FID, glycosidic linkage by GC-MS, NMR spectroscopy, and molecular weight by Size Exclusion Chromatography, pistachio hull water soluble polysaccharides (PHWSP) were identified as a type II arabinogalactan (AG), with characteristic terminally linked α-Araf, (α1 → 5)-Araf, (α1 → 3,5)-Araf, terminally linked β-Galp, (β1 → 6)-Galp, and (β1 → 3,6)-Galp. DEPT-135, HSQC, HMBC and COSY NMR data suggested the presence of (β1 → 3)-Galp mainly branched at O-6 with (β1 → 6)-Galp chains, α-Araf chains, and terminally linked α-Araf. These AG from pistachio external hulls showed in vitro stimulatory activity for B cells, suggesting their possible use as an immunological stimulant in nutraceutical and biomedical applications.

Purification, structural characterization and antioxidant activity of a new arabinogalactan from Dorema ammoniacum gum

Gum ammoniacum is a polymer obtained from Dorema ammoniacum and its medicinal use was already known to the ancient times. In this study, a new D. ammoniacum carbohydrate (DAC-1) with a molecular weight of 27.1 kDa was extracted by hot water and then purified on DEAE-52-cellulose and Sephadex G-100 columns. The structural features of DAC-1 were investigated by partial acid hydrolysis, fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), methylation, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID), and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1D & 2D NMR). The results indicated that DAC-1 was an arabinogalactan including galactose, arabinose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid and 4-O-methyl-β-d-glucopyranosyl uronic acid (meGlcpA) with a relative percentage of 44.63%, 23.30%, 13.46%. 12.47%, and 6.14%. The structure units of DAC-1 were elucidated as 3,1)-β-_D-Galp-(6 → 1)-β-_D-Galp-(3,6 → containing four branch chains of →1,6)-β-_D-Galp-(3 → 1)-α-_L-Araf-(5 → 1)-β-_D-GlcpA-(4 → 1)-α-_L-Rhap-T (two times), →1,6)-β-_D-Galp-(3→1)-β-_D-Galp-(3 → 1)-β-_D-Galp-(3 → 1)-β-_D-Galp-(3  →  1)-α-_L-Araf-T and →1,6)-β-_D-Galp-(3 → 1)-α-_L-Araf-(5 → 1)-β-_D-meGlcpA-T. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern indicated a semi-crystalline structure. Thermal behavior of the polysaccharide was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and revealed temperatures higher than 200 °C as dominant region of weight loss. DAC-1 showed acceptable antioxidant activity when analyzed by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and OH radical removal methods.

The activation effects of fucoidan from sea cucumber Stichopus chloronotus on RAW264.7 cells via TLR2/4-NF-κB pathway and its structure-activity relationship

Sea cucumber Stichopus chloronotus is a traditional tonic food with high nutritive value in Southern China. Fucoidan from sea cucumber Stichopus chloronotus (Fuc-Sc) is its main bio-active polysaccharide, the immune-activation effects of which have been fully investigated on RAW264.7 cells in the present study. The results indicated that Fuc-Sc could stimulate the RAW264.7 cells by promoting the production of NO, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10. Western blot and RT-PCR analysis revealed that TLR4 and TLR2 were involved in the recognition of Fuc-Sc and activation of downstream NF-κB signal pathway. Moreover, the chemical structure parameter molecular weight showed obvious impact on the stimulation effects of Fuc-Sc on NO production. Degraded product of Fuc-Sc with weight average molecular weight of 113.1 × 10⁴ Da exhibited higher activities than that of intact Fuc-Sc, suggesting the existent of optimum chain length to exert its highest activities. Taken together, Fuc-Sc exerted its immunostimulating activity via TLR2/4 activation of NF-κB pathway and showed potentials to be a good immunoadjuvant.

Plants arabinogalactans: From structures to physico-chemical and biological properties

Arabinogalactans (AGs) are plant heteropolysaccharides with complex structures occasionally attached to proteins (AGPs). AGs in cell matrix of different parts of plant are freely available or chemically bound to pectin rhamnogalactan. Type I with predominantly β-d-(1 → 4)-galactan and type II with β-d-(1 → 3) and/or (1 → 6)-galactan structural backbones construct the two main groups of AGs. In the current review, the chemical structure of AGs is firstly discussed focusing on non-traditional plant sources and not including well known industrial gums. After that, processes for their extraction and purification are considered and finally their techno-functional and biological properties are highlighted. The role of AG structure and function on health advantages such as anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-ulcer- anti-diabetic and other activites and also the immunomodulatory effects on in-vivo model systems are overviewed.

Four new polyacetylenes from the roots of Saposhnikovia divaricata

Four new polyacetylene substances, sadivaethynes A-D, were isolated from the ethanol extract of the roots of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk using repeated column chromatography. Structural elucidation of compounds 1-4 was established by 1D and 2D NMR spectra referring to the literature, together with high-resolution mass spectrometric analysis. All compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicity against two human cancer cell lines (MGC-803, Ishikawa) in vitro.

Modern Trends in the In Vitro Production and Use of Callus, Suspension Cells and Root Cultures of Medicinal Plants

This paper studies modern methods of producing and using callus, suspension cells and root cultures of medicinal plants in vitro. A new solution for natural product production is the use of an alternative source of renewable, environmentally friendly raw materials: callus, suspension and root cultures of higher plants in vitro. The possibility of using hairy root cultures as producers of various biologically active substances is studied. It is proven that the application of the genetic engineering achievements that combine in vitro tissue culture and molecular biology methods was groundbreaking in terms of the intensification of the extraction process of compounds significant for the medical industry. It is established that of all the callus processing methods, suspension and root cultures in vitro, the Agrobacterium method is the most widely used in practice. The use of agrobacteria has advantages over the biolistic method since it increases the proportion of stable transformation events, can deliver large DNA segments and does not require special ballistic devices. As a result of the research, the most effective strains of agrobacteria are identified.

Polysaccharides Derived from Saposhnikovia divaricata May Suppress Breast Cancer Through Activating Macrophages

BACKGROUND

Saposhnikovia divaricata (SD) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat pain, inflammation, and arthritis. Recently, it has been reported that SD extract may inhibit tumor growth, but the mechanism involved is elusive. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-tumor activity of polysaccharides derived from SD in breast cancer and the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Polysaccharides isolated from SD were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Their effects on cell growth of U937, MCF-7, and MDA-MB-231, and tumor growth in a mouse MDA-MB 231 xenograft model were examined. Their role in U937 activation, MCF-7, and MDA-MB 231 cytokine release profiles were also tested.

RESULTS

In vitro studies showed that SD polysaccharides (SDPs) promoted U937 cell growth dose-dependently, with no obvious effect on growth of breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. SDP also showed an antagonistic effect against the growth inhibition of U937 by the culture supernatants of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, and reversed the polarization status of U937. Treatment of SCID mice bearing MDA-MB-231-derived xenograft tumors with SDP significantly reduced tumor growth. At all tested concentrations, no obvious toxic side-effects were recorded.

DISCUSSION

We tentatively concluded that SDPs potently promote the growth of U937 and activate it to inhibit the tumor growth of SCID mice bearing MDA-MB-231-derived xenograft tumors indirectly, with no obvious growth inhibition effects on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 in vitro. Our finding indicated that SDP could be a potential anticancer agent for breast cancer.

Isolation, purification, and structural characterization of polysaccharides from Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma and their immunostimulatory activity in RAW264.7 cells

Three water-soluble polysaccharides (AMAP-1, AMAP-2 and AMAP-3) were isolated and purified from Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma by using the combination of ion-exchange chromatography and gel permeation chromatography. The structures of the polysaccharides were characterized by chemical derivatization, HPGC, GC-MS, FT-IR, and NMR techniques. Structural analyses show that the three polysaccharides are pectin-type macromolecules consisting of homogalacturonan (HG) and rhamnogalacturonan type I (RG-I) regions in different ratios. Immunostimulatory assay highlighted that the RG-I-rich AMAP-1 and AMAP-2 with high molecular weights can stimulate RAW264.7 macrophages to release nitric oxide, but HG-rich AMAP-3 with a low molecular weight cannot. This finding suggests that the immune activity may be related to the side chains of the RG-I region, which provides a certain theoretical guidance for further exploring the structure-activity relationship. Meanwhile, AMAP-1 and AMAP-2, especially AMAP-2, from Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma show potential as immune adjuvants.

Saposhnikovia divaricata-An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review

Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk., a perennial herb belonging to the family Umbelliferae, is widely distributed in Northeast Asia. Its dried root (Radix Saposhnikoviae) is used as a Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of immune system, nervous system, and respiratory diseases. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies have shown that the main constituents of S. divaricata are chromones, coumarins, acid esters, and polyacetylenes, and these compounds exhibited significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antitumor, and immunoregulatory activities. The purpose of this review is to provide comprehensive information on the botanical characterization and distribution, traditional use and ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of S. divaricata for further study concerning its mechanism of action and development of better therapeutic agents and health products from S. divaricata.

Purification, structure characterization and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from Saposhnikovia divaricata

Polysaccharide from traditional Chinese herb, Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk. (SD) was extracted, fractionated and characterized in this work. Four fractions were prepared. Their molecular weight, monosaccharide compositions, linkage modes and structural properties were characterized with SEC-MALS-RI, HPAEC-PAD, GC-MS and NMR. SDP1 was assigned as a 1, 4-α-glucan with small amount of O-6 linked branches. SDP2 contained a big amount of the 1, 4-α-glucan and a small amount of arabinogalactan, while SDP3 possessed relatively lower amount of the 1, 4-α-glucan and a big amount of the arabinogalactan. SDP4 was defined as a pectic arabinogalactan. Four fractions showed antioxidant activities in both molecular and cellular levels and their activity was ranked as SDP4 ≈ SDP3>SDP2>SDP1. The 1, 4-α-glucan in SDP1 had the weakest, while SDP3 and SDP4 showed similar and the highest antioxidant activity. The arabinogalactan was the major component of both SDP3 and SDP4, which significantly contributed to the antioxidant activity of SDP.

Development of an Extensive Linkage Library for Characterization of Carbohydrates

The extensive characterization of glycosidic linkages in carbohydrates remains a challenge because of the lack of known standards and limitations in current analytical techniques. This study encompasses the construction of an extensive glycosidic linkage library built from synthesized standards. It includes an improved liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the quantitation of glycosidic linkages derived from disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides present in complicated matrices. We present a method capable of the simultaneous identification of over 90 unique glycosidic linkages using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC/QqQ MS) operated in dynamic multiple reaction monitoring (dMRM) mode. To build the library, known monosaccharides commonly found in plants were subjected to partial methylation to yield partially derivatized species representing trisecting, bisecting, linear, and terminal structures. The library includes glycosidic linkage information for three hexoses (glucose, galactose, and mannose), three pentoses (xylose, arabinose, and ribose), two deoxyhexoses (fucose and rhamnose), and two hexuronic acids (glucuronic acid and galacturonic acid). The resulting partially methylated monosaccharides were then labeled with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (PMP) followed by separation and analysis by UHPLC/dMRM MS. Validation of the synthesized standards was performed using disaccharide, oligosaccharide, and polysaccharide standards. Accuracy, reproducibility, and robustness of the method was demonstrated by analysis of xyloglucan (tamarind) and whole carrot root. The synthesized standards represent the most comprehensive group of carbohydrate linkages to date.

Effect of Juice and Extracts from Saposhnikovia divaricata Root on the Colon Cancer Cells Caco-2

Colorectal cancer ranks 3rd in terms of cancer incidence. Growth and development of colon cancer cells may be affected by juice and extracts from Saposhnikovia divaricata root. The objective of the research was to analyze the effect of S. divaricata juice and extracts on the viability, membrane integrity and types of cell death of Caco-2 cells. Juice and extracts were analyzed using Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) and in respect of the presence of antioxidants, total carbohydrates, protein, fat and polyphenols. The contents of cimifugin β-D-glucopyranoside, cimifugin, 4′-O-glucopyranosyl-5-O-methylvisamminol, imperatorin and protein were the highest in juice. 50% Hydroethanolic extract had the greatest antioxidant potential, concentration of polyphenols and fat. Water extract was characterized by the highest content of glutathione. Juice and 75% hydroethanolic extract contained the most carbohydrates. After the application of juice, 50% extract and the juice fraction containing the molecules with molecular weights >50 kDa, a decrease of the cell viability was noted. Juice and this extract exhibited the protective properties in relation to the cell membranes and they induced apoptosis. The knowledge of further mechanisms of anticancer activity of the examined products will allow to consider their use as part of combination therapy.