Effects of polysaccharides from Fuzhuan brick tea on immune function and gut microbiota of cyclophosphamide-treated mice

Polysaccharides of Melientha longistaminea regulates immune function and gut microbiota in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppressed mice

MLS is a bioactive extract of Melientha longistaminea shoots. In this study, we characterized the preliminary structure of MLS. And establish in vivo immune model experiments. To investigate the potential mechanism of immunomodulatory effects on CTX-induced immunosuppressed mice. From the experimental results, we found that MLS restored immune organ damage in immunosuppressed mice, increased cytokine and immunoglobulin secretion in the spleen, and attenuated oxidative damage to the liver by CTX. Meanwhile, MLS was also effective in ameliorating immune injury in immunosuppressed mice by activating the NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways. MLS effectively improved the composition of the gut flora and increased the production of SCFAs in the gut. The results indicate that MLS has immunomodulatory effects and provides a research basis for developing Melientha longistaminea polysaccharides as immunomodulatory adjuvants.

Structural characterization of raw and wine-steamed Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua oligosaccharides and their bioactivity on immune regulation via modifying the gut microbiota

Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua (PC) is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of use as pharmaceuticals or functional foods. Wine steaming is the main processing method of PC, which changes the structure of polysaccharides and oligosaccharides in PC and enhances biological activities. This study investigated the structural characterization of raw and wine-steamed PC oligosaccharides and the differences in the immunomodulatory effects using cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppression rat model. The oligosaccharides content and molecular weight of PC after wine steaming decreased, the proportion of oligosaccharides in total sugars and the reducing sugars content increased, and the monosaccharides composition of oligosaccharides changed. The raw Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua oligosaccharides (PCCO) and the wine-steamed Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua oligosaccharides (PCWO) exerted regulatory effects on organ index, immunoglobulin G (IgG), complement 3 (C3) spleen and colon tissue morphology, hematopoietic function of immunosuppressive rats treated by cyclophosphamide (CTX). Both PCCO and PCWO significantly regulated and improved the diversity and abundance of gut microbiota in immunosuppressed rats and increased the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the feces of rats, and the regulating effect of PCWO was better than PCCO. Differential microbiota analysis showed that PCWO could promote the proliferation of Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, Oscillibacter, Roseburia, and Alistipes. In summary, the difference in the structural characteristics of PC oligosaccharides might be the reason for immune enhancement. This study could provide a theoretical basis for clarifying the scientific connotation of wine steaming to enhance the efficacy of PC, and promote the application of wine-steamed PC as an immunomodulator in pharmaceuticals or functional foods.

Flammulina velutipes residue Polysaccharide Alleviates Immunosuppression and Intestinal Injury by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Associated Metabolites

This study elucidated the mechanisms underlying the immunoregulatory and gut-microbiota-modulating effects of Flammulina velutipes residue polysaccharide (FVRP) using cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced mouse models. FVRP supplementation alleviated CTX-induced intestinal damage and boosted antioxidant enzyme activity and cytokine secretion. Additionally, FVRP enhanced the diversity and total species richness of the gut microbiota, promoting the proliferation of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Prevotellaceae), while reducing the abundance of CTX-derived bacteria (Lachnospiraceae and Rikenellaceae). FVRP facilitates the accumulation of short-chain fatty acids. Untargeted metabolomic analyses of cecal content revealed that FVRP treatment notably restored the levels of 32 endogenous metabolites altered by CTX. Based on a pseudosterility mice model, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and fecal filtrate transplantation (FFT), gut microbiota and associated metabolites were demonstrated to play a crucial role in the immunomodulatory and protective effects of FVRP against intestinal injury. In conclusion, FVRP exhibits significant potential as an immune enhancer and natural therapeutic agent for alleviating intestinal inflammatory conditions.

Fucoidan from Apostichopus japonicus enhances intestinal barrier function and promotes intestinal immunity via regulating the gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolism

Apostichopus japonicus is one of the most popular types of sea cucumber among consumers in Southeast Asia. Fucoidan from Apostichopus japonicus (Aj-FUC) has attracted considerable attention because of its immunomodulatory activities. Aj-FUC is indigestible in the human upper gastrointestinal tract but can be utilized by the gut microbiota. Thus, we suspect that Aj-FUC interacts with the gut to enhance immunefunction. This study showed that after a three-week intervention with Aj-FUC (100 mg/kg/d), the gut microbiota in mice developed a new homeostasis. Subsequently, in the condition of intestinal flora homeostasis, the effects of Aj-FUC on intestinal health in normal mice and the prevention of intestinal mucosal damage in cyclophosphamide-induced mice were investigated. Aj-FUC preserved intestinal structural integrity, increased the number of goblet cells, upregulated the expression of ZO-1 and Occludin, stimulated the secretion of sIgA and IgA, and maintained the Th1/Th2 balance. Importantly, beneficial bacteria were enriched, and tryptophan metabolism-related metabolites such as 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid, and indole-3-lactic acid were upregulated following Aj-FUC administration. In summary, a three-week Aj-FUC intervention could result in the formation of a new homeostasis in intestinal flora, while the effect of Aj-FUC on intestinal immunity was related to the regulation of tryptophan metabolism by gut microbiota.

Fu Brick Tea Protects the Intestinal Barrier and Ameliorates Colitis in Mice by Regulating Gut Microbiota

Ulcerative colitis (UC) pathogenesis is strongly linked to gut microbiota dysbiosis and compromised intestinal barrier integrity. Emerging evidence suggests that targeted dietary interventions may restore microbial homeostasis and ameliorate colitis progression. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of Fu Brick tea (FBT) using a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced murine colitis model. The results indicated that oral administration of FBT extract significantly improved the disease index, reduced inflammatory response, protected intestinal barrier protein (e.g., ZO-1), and maintained intestinal structure integrity. Furthermore, FBT intake increased the diversity of gut microbiota, promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Akkermansia), inhibited the proliferation of harmful bacteria (e.g., Desulfovibrioceae, Escherichia, and Helicobacter), restored intestinal homeostasis, and alleviated colitis symptoms including diarrhea. These findings position FBT as a promising nutraceutical candidate for UC management via multi-target modulation of mucosal immunity and microbial ecology.

Postoperative unexplained sigmoid stenosis in a patient with rectal cancer complicated with connective tissue disease: a case report and literature review

It is well established that host immunity plays a critical role in defending against colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. Connective tissue disease (CTD) encompasses a group of heterogeneous, immune-mediated disorders that present with diverse and often non-specific initial symptoms. Raynaud's phenomenon is a common feature, complicating early diagnosis. As CTD progresses, it can damage the skin, muscles, and blood vessels and may extend to the lungs, heart, kidneys, and other abdominal organs. Several studies have reported that CTD can lead to intestinal vascular occlusion and related inflammation, but the occurrence of related complications after intestinal surgery has been reported rarely. In this study, an elderly female patient with rectal cancer complicated with CTD was found to have unexplained proximal anastomotic stenosis during an attempt at fistula restoration 3 months after laparoscopy-assisted transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) and preventive terminal ileostomy, resulting in fistula failure. This case study aims to serve as a reference for clinicians in their future practice.

Study on the physicochemical properties and immune regulatory mechanism of polysaccharide fraction from Aronia Melanocarpa fruit

Aronia Melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott fruit has been extensively used in the food and medicinal fields. This study aimed to analyze the physicochemical properties of a polysaccharide fraction (AMP2) isolated from this fruit for the first time and investigated its immune regulatory mechanism. The physicochemical properties of AMP2 were determined using high-performance gel permeation chromatography, PMP derivatization-high performance liquid chromatography, Ultraviolet spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy. The metagenomic technology was applied to investigate the regulatory effects and mechanisms of AMP2 on the gut microbiota of immunosuppressed mice. The results showed that molecular weight of AMP2 was 83,444 Da, which was mainly composed of D-arabinose, D-xylose, D-mannose, D-rhamnose and D-glucose, and both β-type and α-type glycosidic bonds contained in its structure. AMP2 changed the composition of gut microbiota by increasing the number of beneficial and probiotic bacteria, thereby regulated the intestinal mucosal immune system of host. AMP2 improved intestinal immune system response and antimicrobial capacity through positive regulation of the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway and neutrophil extracellular trap formation. The results demonstrate the potential of AMP2 in immune regulation, providing a new perspective for its subsequent development and contributing to the development and application of related health foods.

Fu brick tea polysaccharides: A state-of-the-art mini-review on extraction, purification, characteristics, bioactivities and applications

Fu brick tea (FBT), a post-fermented dark tea, is highly esteemed for its abundant nutritional and medicinal values. Fu brick polysaccharides (FBTPs) are acidic heteropolysaccharides primarily composed of galactose and galacturonic acid, which are crucial components of FBT. FBTPs exhibit multiple bioactivities, including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, regulatory effects on intestinal microbiota, anti-obesity, among others. Owing to their significant marketing potential and promising development prospects, FBTPs have attracted considerable attention from researchers worldwide. However, the specific mechanisms and underlying structure-function relationships of FBTPs are not well understood. Consequently, this review aims to provide comprehensive and cutting-edge information on the extraction, purification, structural characteristics, and biological activities of FBTPs, with an emphasis on exploring how their structural characteristics influence biological activities and therapeutic potential. We found that different materials and extraction techniques could result in differences in the structure-activity relationship of FBTPs. Furthermore, monosaccharide composition and molecular weight could also significantly impact the bioactivities of FBTPs, such as lipid-lowering effects and immunomodulatory activity. This review would further facilitate the applications of FBTPs as therapeutic agents and functional foods, thereby laying a solid foundation for their further development and utilization.

Immunomodulatory Mechanisms of Tea Leaf Polysaccharide in Mice with Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression Based on Gut Flora and Metabolomics

Tea polysaccharides (TPSs) are receiving increasing attention because of their diverse pharmacological and biological activities. Here, we explored the immunoregulatory mechanisms of TPSs from fresh tea leaves in a mouse model of cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppression in terms of gut microbiota and metabolites. We observed that TPSs significantly increased the body weight and alleviated CTX-induced thymus atrophy in the immunosuppressed mice; they also increased the plasma levels of immunoglobulins A and M, interleukin (IL) 1β, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and tumor necrosis factor α. Furthermore, we conducted 16S rDNA sequencing of cecal contents, resulting in the acquisition of 5008 high-quality bacterial 16S rDNA gene reads from the sequencing of mouse fecal samples. By analyzing the data, we found that TPSs regulated the gut microbiota structure and diversity and alleviated the CTX-induced dysregulation of gut microbiota. The colonic contents of mice were subjected to analysis using the UPLC-Q-TOF/MS/MS technique for the purpose of untargeted metabolomics. In the course of our metabolite identification analysis, we identified a total of 2685 metabolites in positive ion mode and 1655 metabolites in negative ion mode. The analysis of these metabolites indicated that TPSs improved CTX-induced metabolic disorders by regulating the levels of metabolites related to tryptophan, arginine, and proline metabolism. In conclusion, TPSs can alleviate CTX-induced immunosuppression by regulating the structural composition of gut microbiota, indicating the applicability of TPSs as novel innate immune modulators in health foods or medicines.

Mulberry polyphenols restored both small and large intestinal microflora in db/db mice, potentially alleviating type 2 diabetes

Polyphenols in mulberry fruit have potential anti-diabetic effects by targeting the gut microbiota. This study investigated how mulberry polyphenols (MPs) influence the microbiota of the small and large intestines and their effects on type 2 diabetes symptoms. The results showed lower microbiota densities in the small intestine. MP treatments improved microbiota richness and diversity in both intestines, similar to metformin. In particular, at a 400 mg kg-1 dose, mulberry polyphenols decreased Firmicutes, Lactobacillus, and Bacilli, while increasing Bacteroidetes, leading to elevated propionate and butyrate levels. Less abundant small intestinal microbiota, like Enterobacterales, Mycoplasmatales, Enterobacteriaceae, and Ureaplasma, were involved in regulating blood glucose and insulin levels. Functional analysis suggested that mulberry polyphenols reshaped the small intestinal microbiota to influence blood glucose balance via unknown pathways, while in the large intestine, they primarily affected blood glucose through carbohydrate transport and metabolism. Based on their ability to regulate the composition of intestinal flora, MPs likely improved glucose homeostasis by enhancing glucose utilization, supporting pancreatic tissue health, and increasing serum antioxidant capacity. However, the specific mechanisms underlying this potential are yet to be fully explored. This study provides new insights into the influence of MPs on remodeling the microbiota residing in both the small and large intestines, which thereby may contribute to the improvement of the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes.

Prevention of cyclophosphamide-induced immune suppression by polysaccharides from Apocynum venetum flowers via enhancing immune response, reducing oxidative stress, and regulating gut microbiota in mice

Introduction

Emerging proof suggests that Apocynum venetum flowers polysaccharide (AVFP) has immunomodulatory effects in vitro. However, the action mechanism of AVFA is still unclear in vivo. The purpose of this study is to probe into the potential mechanism of AVFA in immunosuppressed mice by investigating organ index, cytokine levels, anti-oxidative stress capacity, transcriptomics, and gut microbiota.

Methods

Immunocompromised mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) were divided into six groups. The enzyme-labeled method, hematoxylin and eosin, transcriptomics, and high-throughput sequencing were used to detect the regulatory effects of AVFP on immunocompromised mice and the function of AVFP on the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The Spearman correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between the intestinal microbiota and biochemical indexes.

Results

The experimental results illustrated that AVFP has protective effects against CTX-induced immunosuppression in mice by prominently increasing the organ index and levels of anti-inflammatory factors in serum in addition to enhancing the antioxidant capacity of the liver. Meanwhile, it could also signally decrease the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines in serum, the activity of transaminase in serum, and the content of free radicals in the liver, and alleviate the spleen tissue damage induced by CTX. Transcriptomics results discovered that AVFP could play a role in immune regulation by participating in the NF-κB signaling pathway and regulating the immune-related genes Bcl3, Hp, Lbp, Cebpd, Gstp2, and Lcn2. Gut microbiota results illustrated that AVFP could increase the abundance of beneficial bacteria, reduce the abundance of harmful bacteria, and regulate the metabolic function of intestinal microorganisms while dramatically improving the content of SCFAs, modulating immune responses, and improving the host metabolism. The Spearman analysis further evaluated the association between intestinal microbiota and immune-related indicators.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated that AVFP could enhance the immune effects of the immunosuppressed mice and improve the body's ability to resist oxidative stress.

Effects of non-nutritive sweeteners on growth and intestinal health by regulating hypothalamic RNA profile and ileum microbiota in guinea pigs

BACKGROUND

Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) are commonly used in sweetened foods and beverages; however their role in metabolic regulation is still not clear. In this experiment, we used guinea pigs as an animal model to study the effect of NNS on body growth and intestinal health by modifying gut microbiota and hypothalamus-related proteins.

RESULTS

For a 28-day feeding experiment a total of 40 guinea pigs were randomly divided into four groups, one control (CN) group and three treatments, in which three NNS were added to the diet: rebaudioside A (RA, 330 mg kg-1), sodium saccharin (SS, 800 mg kg-1), and sucralose (TGS, 167 mg kg-1), respectively. The TGS group exhibited significantly reduced food consumption in comparison with the CN group (P < 0.05) whereas the RA group showed increased food consumption in comparison with the CN group (P < 0.05). Notably, Taste receptor type 1 subunit 2 (T1R2) expression in the hypothalamus was significantly higher in the RA group than in the CN group (P < 0.05). The mRNA expressions of appetite-stimulated genes arouti-related neuropeptide (AGRP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSHB) were significantly higher than those in the CN group (P < 0.05) but mRNA expressions of appetite-suppressed genes tryptophan hydroxylase 2(THP2) were significantly lower in the TGS group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, NNS in the guinea pig diets (RA, SS, TGS) significantly increased the relative abundance of Muribaculaceae but decreased the relative abundance of Clostridia_vadin BB60 in comparison with the CN group (P < 0.05). We also found that dietary supplementation with RA also significantly altered the relative abundance of Lactobacillus.

CONCLUSION

Our finding confirmed that dietary supplementation with RA and TGS affected body growth and intestinal health by modulating hypothalamic RNA profiles and ileum microbiota, suggesting that NNS should be included in guinea-pig feeding. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

The structural characterization of a novel Chinese yam polysaccharide and its hypolipidemic activity in HFD-induced obese C57BL/6J mice

Obesity was considered as a rapidly growing chronic disease that influences human health worldwide. In this study, we investigated the primary structure characteristics of Chinese yam polysaccharide (CYP) and its role in regulating lipid metabolism in a high-fat diet (HFD)-fed obese mice. The molecular weight of CYP was determined to be 3.16 × 103 kDa. Periodic acid oxidation & smith degradation and nuclear magnetic resonance results suggested that CYP consists of 1 → 2, 1 → 2, 6, 1 → 4, 1 → 4, 6, 1→, or 1 → 6 glycoside bonds. The in vivo experiment results suggested that the biochemical indices, tissue sections, and protein regulation associated with lipid metabolism were changed after administering CYP in obese mice. In addition, the abundances of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria Lachnospiraceae, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014 were increased, and the abundances of bacteria Desulfovibrionaceae and Ruminococcus and metabolites of arginine, propionylcarnitine, and alloisoleucine were decreased after CYP intervention in obese mice. Spearman's correlation analysis of intestinal flora, metabolites, and lipid metabolism parameters showed that CYP may affect lipid metabolism in obese mice by regulating the intestinal environment. Therefore, CYP may be used as a promising nutritional intervention agent for lipid metabolism.

Caragana sinica (Buc'hoz) Rehd. (jin ji er) polysaccharide regulates the immune function and intestinal microbiota of cyclophosphamide (CTX) induced immunosuppressed mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Caragana sinica (Buc'hoz) Rehd. is a plant widely grown in Yunnan, China, for both medicinal and edible purposes. The "National Compilation of Chinese Herbal Medicine" describes its nature as "slightly temperate and sweet". Caragana sinica is usually medicated with whole herbs, the main function is to replenish the kidneys and stop bleeding. Caragana sinica was used in folk medicine in Chuxiong, Yunnan, to treat deficiency colds, fatigue, fever, cough, hypertension, and other diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This article investigates the structural characteristics of Caragana sinica polysaccharide (CSP) and explores its immune-regulatory activity and molecular biological mechanisms in cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppressed mice, as well as its effects on intestinal bacteria.

METHODS

With the water-extraction and alcohol-precipitation method, Caragana sinica polysaccharide were extracted, obtaining CSP by purification. A variety of methods and techniques have been used to analyze the chemical properties and structural characteristics of CSP. Immunosuppressive mice model was established through intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (CTX) to study the immune-regulatory effects and mechanisms of CSP.

RESULTS

The data indicated that CSP is a neutral heteropolysaccharide mainly composed of arabinose and galactose. This article uses immunosuppressive mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) as the model. The results showed that CSP can promote the immune function of CTX treated immunosuppressed mice and regulate the diversity and composition of intestinal microbiota. CSP can increase macrophage phagocytosis, NK cell killing activity, and lymphocyte proliferation activity. It can also repair the index and morphological damage of the thymus and spleen. And by binding to the TLR4 receptor, MyD88 was activated and interacted with TRAF6 to promote the transfer of NF-κB into the nucleus. Thereby promoting cytokine release and increasing the production of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IgA, and IgG in the serum. CSP also effectively alleviated the liver damage caused by CTX through antioxidant activity. Furthermore, CSP can dramatically affect the intestinal microbiota and the body's immunity by boosting the relative presence of Bacteroides and Verrucamicrobiota.

CONCLUSIONS

Research results indicated that CSP can regulate the immune function of mice, providing a basis for developing CSP as a potential immune modulator and functional food.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Tea Residue on Growth Performance, Digestibility, and Diarrhea in Piglets

Thirty-six healthy 21-day-old weaned ternary piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) were randomly divided into two treatments with 18 replicates per treatment and one pig per replicate. The control group was fed with a basal diet and the test group was fed with diets supplemented with 1 kg/t tea residue. The test period was 28 days. The results are as follows: The addition of tea residue in the diet had no significant effect on the growth performance of weaned piglets (p > 0.05), but it could significantly reduce the diarrhea rate of piglets from 1 to 7 days and 1 to 28 days (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the dietary supplementation of tea residue had no significant effect on nutrient apparent digestibility, plasma biochemical indexes and plasma immune indexes (p > 0.05) but increased the content of glutathione in plasma (p < 0.05). Tea residue had no significant effect on the morphology of the jejunum and ileum of piglets (p > 0.05), but it could significantly reduce the content of chloride ions in feces (p < 0.05). Compared with the basal diet group, there was no significant difference in the relative expression of TMEM16A and CFTR mRNA in the colon of weaned piglets (p > 0.05). The whole-cell patch clamp recording showed that the TMEM16A and CFTR ion channels could be activated by ionomycin and forskolin, respectively. However, when HT-29 cells transfected with TMEM16A and CFTR channels were treated with tea residue extract, it could significantly inhibit the chloride current of the TMEM16A and CFTR ion channels (p < 0.05).

Recent insights into the physicochemical properties, bioactivities and their relationship of tea polysaccharides

Tea polysaccharides (TPS) is receiving global concern in past years due to their therapeutic effects in many diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Many publications imply that the unique physicochemical properties and bioactivities of TPS are prerequisites for its use as a biofilm, drug carrier and emulsifier. Despite numerous healthy benefits, studies on the in-deep structure-activity relationship of TPS still not well explored and explained yet. The main reasons for the research limitation are attributed mainly to the unbreakable advanced structural research technology and the formation of TPS conjugates. The present review also summarizes some similar parameters in primary structure of TPS with better bioactivities, discusses the relationships between their physicochemical properties and bioactivities, and suggests that function-specific TPS would be obtained in the future if the links between preparation methods, physicochemical properties and bioactivities of TPS could be well understood and established.

Chemical components of Fu brick tea and its potential preventive effects on metabolic syndrome

As living standards advance, an escalating emphasis is placed on health, particularly in relation to prevalent chronic metabolic disorders. It is necessary to explore safe and effective functional foods or drugs. Fu brick tea (FBT) is a kind of dark tea fermented by fungi. The extracts are rich in compounds that can effectively relieve metabolic diseases such as hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, protect the liver, improve human immunity, enhance antioxidant activity, and regulate intestinal flora. This paper summarizes the biological activities and mechanisms of the extracts, polysaccharides, and small molecular compounds of FBT, which provides a certain theoretical basis for the rational, systematic, comprehensive development and utilization of the FBT resources. It is expected to develop and apply these active substances in health care products and natural medicines and provide more beneficial and diversified FBT products for human beings.

Polygonatum odoratum polysaccharide attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury in mice by regulating gut microbiota

Polygonatum odoratum is appreciated for its edible and medicinal benefits especially for lung protection. However, the contained active components have been understudied, and further research is required to fully exploit its potential application. We aimed to probe into the beneficial effects of Polygonatum odoratum polysaccharide (POP) in lipopolysaccharide-induced lung inflammatory injury mice. POP treatment could ameliorate the survival rate, pulmonary function, lung pathological lesions, and immune inflammatory response. POP treatment could repair intestinal barrier, and modulate the composition of gut microbiota, especially reducing the abundance of Klebsiella, which were closely associated with the therapeutic effects of POP. Investigation of the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanism showed that POP suppressed the generation of pro-inflammatory molecules in lung by inhibiting iNOS+ M1 macrophages. Collectively, POP is a promising multi-target microecological regulator to prevent and treat the immuno-inflammation and lung injury by modulating gut microbiota.

Leuconostoc mesenteroides WHH1141 ameliorates ovalbumin-induced food allergy in mice

Food allergy (FA) is acknowledged as a significant public health and food safety issue, due to its manifestation as an amplified immune reaction to food antigens. Recently, probiotics within Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have been highlighted as a promising strategy against allergic disease by modulating the balance of Th1/Th2 responses. However, the allergy-alleviating effects of probiotic Leuconostoc mesenteroides strains are unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the potentials of eleven L. mesenteroides strains on the Th1/Th2 balance in vitro by evaluating the expression patterns of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) (Th1 cytokine) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) (Th2 cytokine) in mesenteric lymph node-derived lymphocytes from ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mice. Among strains, WHH1141 incubation caused the highest IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio. Oral administration of WHH1141 (1 × 109  CFU/mL) in the OVA-induced FA mouse model for 40 days improved the weight loss and FA pathological symptoms and normalized the serum immunoglobulin E levels. Meanwhile, the OVA-induced elevated gene expressions of cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and tight-junction proteins (ZO-1 and Occludin) and levels of cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and histamine in the jejunum were restored by WHH1141. Furthermore, WHH1141 reversed the reduced gut microbial diversity and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels, specifically increased Bacteroidota abundance, and decreased Firmicutes abundance in OVA-induced mice. Overall, these findings suggest that WHH1141 exerts FA-alleviating effects on OVA-induced mice, which is involved with the inhibition of the jejunal Th2 immune responses and the modulation of gut microbiome composition and SCFA productions. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Leuconostoc mesenteroides WHH1141 with FA-alleviating potentials may be considered a promising approach in the mitigation of FA symptoms.

Poria cocos polysaccharide improves intestinal barrier function and maintains intestinal homeostasis in mice

The function of the intestinal tract is critical to human health. Poria cocos is a widely used functional edible fungus in Asia and has been reported to modulate gastrointestinal function. However, the effects of polysaccharides, the main active constituents of Poria cocos, on the intestinal tract remains unclear and is the focus of the study. Poria cocos polysaccharides (PCP) were extracted, characterized, and administered to mice by gavage. The results show that PCP used in this study has a typical polysaccharide peak with a molecular weight of 11.583 kDa and is composed primarily of mannose, D-glucosamine hydrochloride, glucose, galactose, and fucose with a molar ratio of 15.308: 0.967: 28.723: 31.631: 23.371. The methylation results suggest that the PCP backbone may be t-Gal(p), 6-Gal(p) and 2,6-Gal(p). The effects of PCP on the mucosal barrier function of the mouse intestine (duodenum, jejunum, and ileum) were examined in terms of intestinal physiological status, physical barrier, biochemical barrier, immune barrier, and microbial barrier. The results showed that PCP significantly improved the physiological state of mouse intestine. Moreover, PCP strengthened the intestinal physical barrier by upregulating the expression of intestinal Occludin and ZO-1 and downregulating the levels of serum endotoxin, DAO, D-lactate, and intestinal MPO. Regarding biochemical barrier, PCP could upregulate the expression of MUC2, β-defensin, and SIgA in intestinal tissues. In addition, PCP modulated the immune barrier by increasing IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β, and IFN-γ expression. Besides, PCP increased the level of SCFAs in small intestinal contents. PCP modulates intestinal barrier function by altering the microbial composition of the gut. We also found that PCP could maintain intestinal barrier function by increasing the expression of Wnt/β-Catenin and Lrp5 proteins. Generally, our findings suggested that PCP may be used as a functional food to regulate intestinal mucosal function, thereby enhancing the health of the intestinal and host.

Exopolysaccharides from Genistein-Stimulated Monascus purpureus Ameliorate Cyclophosphamide-Induced Intestinal Injury via PI3K/AKT-MAPKs/NF-κB Pathways and Regulation of Gut Microbiota

Exopolysaccharides from genistein-stimulated Monascus purpureus (G-EMP) exhibited immunomodulatory potential in vitro, but whether it had immune-enhancing effects in vivo and its potential mechanism are not yet known. Here, the immunomodulatory effects of G-EMP were investigated by establishing an immunosuppressed mouse model treated with cyclophosphamide (Cy). The results suggested that G-EMP effectively alleviated the signs of weight reduction and diet reduction caused by Cy, increased fecal water content and splenic index, and decreased the oxidative stress of the liver. Simultaneously, G-EMP improved Cy-induced intestinal injury by restoring villus length, increasing the number of cupped cells, upregulating the expression of mucin and tight junction proteins, and downregulating the ratio of apoptotic proteins (Bax/Bcl-2). It also boosted the levels of mouse colonic cytokines, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Additionally, G-EMP markedly enhanced immunomodulation via the activation of PI3K/AKT-MAPKs/NF-κB signal pathways. Furthermore, G-EMP intervention displayed a positive association with most immunological indexes by elevating the levels of short-chain fatty acids, varying gut microbiota composition, and enhancing beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillaceae, Prevotellaceae, and S24-7). These findings demonstrated that G-EMP can strengthen immunity, repair intestinal mucosal damage, regulate gut microbiota, and be a potential source of prebiotics.

Effects of sheep whey protein combined with Fu brick tea polysaccharides and stachyose on immune function and intestinal metabolites of cyclophosphamide-treated mice

BACKGROUND

Sheep whey protein (SWP), Fu brick tea polysaccharides (FBTP) and stachyose (STA) have been shown to improve immunity, but little is known about the regulatory effect of SWP, FBTP, STA and their combined formula (CF) on immune function and intestinal metabolism of immunosuppressed mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX).

RESULTS

Administration of SWP, FBTP, STA or CF restored the levels of body weight, immune organ index, immune organ morphology, cytokines and immunoglobulins in CTX immunosuppressed mice. Interestingly, CF improved all the mentioned parameters more effective than administration of SWP, FBTP or STA alone. In addition, CF was more effective to increase the levels of intestinal immune-related gene expression than FBTP, SWP or STA alone in immunosuppressed mice, suggesting that CF exhibited excellent intestinal immune regulation function. CF also significantly improved cecal concentrations of short-chain fatty acids of CTX-treated mice. Furthermore, metabolomics analysis demonstrated that CF recovered the levels of 28 metabolites associated with the CTX treatment to the levels of normal mice.

CONCLUSION

Conclusively, these findings suggested that CF as a functional food combination of SWP, FBTP and STA could promote the immune function against human diseases, which providing theoretical support for the co-ingestion of SWP and functional sugars as a feasible strategy for improving the body immunity in the future. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Immunomodulatory effects of complex probiotics on the immuno-suppressed mice induced by cyclophosphamide

Introduction

Previous studies have reported the beneficial effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis XLTG11, Lacticaseibacillus casei Zhang, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P8, respectively. However, studies on the immunomodulatory enhancing effects of three complex probiotics have not been conducted. The aim of our study is to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of complex probiotics effect on the immunosuppressed mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX).

Methods

An immunocompromised mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide, which was gavage of different doses of complex probiotics and levamisole hydrochloride. The splenic and thymic indices, intestinal barrier, leukocyte and lymphocyte counts, percentage of splenic lymphocyte subpopulations, cytokine levels, and gut microbiota were determined.

Results

Results showed that the complex probiotics significantly elevated the spleen and thymus indices, increased the villi and crypt depth and the goblet cells. The leukocyte and lymphocyte counts and the percentage of splenic lymphocyte subpopulations in the CTX-treated mice were significantly elevated by the complex probiotics. In addition, the cytokines (IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β, and IFN-γ) were significantly increased after complex probiotic treatment. The complex probiotics restored the gut microbiota structure to the pattern of the control group by reducing the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes and enhancing the relative abundances of specific microbiota that produced short-chain fatty acids.

Discussion

This study provides theoretical support for the immunity-enhancing function of the complex probiotics as well as a pharmacological basis for its further development and utilization.

Pharmacomicrobiomics in Pediatric Oncology: The Complex Interplay between Commonly Used Drugs and Gut Microbiome

The gut microbiome (GM) has emerged in the last few years as a main character in several diseases. In pediatric oncological patients, GM has a role in promoting the disease, modulating the effectiveness of therapies, and determining the clinical outcomes. The therapeutic course for most pediatric cancer influences the GM due to dietary modifications and several administrated drugs, including chemotherapies, antibiotics and immunosuppressants. Interestingly, increasing evidence is uncovering a role of the GM on drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, defining a bidirectional relationship. Indeed, the pediatric setting presents some contrasts with respect to the adult, since the GM undergoes a constant multifactorial evolution during childhood following external stimuli (such as diet modification during weaning). In this review, we aim to summarize the available evidence of pharmacomicrobiomics in pediatric oncology.

Regulatory effects of Auricularia cornea var. Li. polysaccharides on immune system and gut microbiota in cyclophosphamide-induced mice

The immuno-regulating potential of edible fungus polysaccharides has gained more and more attention. However, there is little information about the study of Auricularia cornea var. Li. polysaccharides regulating immunomodulatory activity. The objective of this work to analyze the immunomodulatory activity and the mechanism of A. cornea var. Li. polysaccharides supplementation in an immunosuppressed mice model induced by cyclophosphamide. The effects of A. cornea var. Li. polysaccharides on immune system including immune organ indices, immunoglobulin contents, and inflammation cytokines in immunosuppressed mice were determined. In addition, the regulatory effects of A. cornea var. Li. polysaccharides on the gut microbiota and their metabolites were analyzed. Results showed that A. cornea var. Li. polysaccharides significantly elevated immune organ indexes, remarkably enhanced the levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG and IgM in serum and secretory IgA (sIgA) in the intestinal mucosa, conspicuously stimulated the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, and IL-10 in the serum. A. cornea var. Li. polysaccharides also could restore gut microbiota to the pattern that is similar with that of the control group with increase of the relative abundances of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria. Furthermore, the content of SCFAs were increased after A. cornea var. Li. polysaccharides supplementation. This study provides useful information for applications of A. cornea var. Li. polysaccharides in immune-regulated foods and medicine.

Fermented natural product targeting gut microbiota regulate immunity and anti-inflammatory activity: A possible way to prevent COVID-19 in daily diet

Low immune function makes the body vulnerable to being invaded by external bacteria or viruses, causing influenza and inflammation of various organs, and this trend is shifting to the young and middle-aged group. It has been pointed out that natural products fermented by probiotic have benign changes about their active ingredients in some studies, and it have shown strong nutritional value in anti-oxidation, anti-aging, regulating lipid metabolism, anti-inflammatory and improving immunity. In recent years, the gut microbiota plays a key role and has been extensively studied in improving immunity and anti-inflammation activity. By linking the relationship between natural products fermented by probiotic, gut microbiota, immunity, and inflammation, this review presents the modulating effects of probiotics and their fermented natural products on the body, including immunity-enhancing and anti-inflammatory activities by modulating gut microbiota, and it is discussed that the current understanding of its molecular mechanisms. It may become a possible way to prevent COVID-19 through consuming natural products fermented by probiotic in our daily diet.

Purple red rice anthocyanins alleviate intestinal damage in cyclophosphamide-induced mice associated with modulation of intestinal barrier function and gut microbiota

The regulatory effects of purple red rice bran anthocyanins (PRBA) on intestinal barrier function and gut microbiota in mice were investigated. Results showed that PRBA had an ameliorative effect on intestinal barrier damage, including restoration of villus length, improvement in the number of cupped cells and promotion of sIgA secretion. PRBA stimulated the production of cytokines, reduced the levels of endotoxin (ET) and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) in serum, as well as upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins (TJs) and NF-κB pathway proteins. Furthermore, PRBA not only promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), but also regulated the intestinal microbiota by increasing beneficial bacteria (Lachnospiraceae, Bacteroidaceae, Ruminococcaceae) and reducing pathogenic bacteria (Shigella) to maintained intestinal homeostasis. Above results indicated that PRBA could ameliorate cyclophosphamide-induced impairment of intestinal barrier function and dysregulation of the gut microbiota, which provides a new idea for broadening the exploitation of PRBA.

A Review on the Extraction, Bioactivity, and Application of Tea Polysaccharides

Tea is a non-alcoholic drink containing various active ingredients, including tea polysaccharides (TPSs). TPSs have various biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-tumor, hypoglycemic, and anti-cancer activities. However, TPSs have a complex composition, which significantly limits the extraction and isolation methods, thus limiting their application. This paper provides insight into the composition, methodological techniques for isolation and extraction of the components, biological activities, and functions of TPSs, as well as their application prospects.

Advances in the Utilization of Tea Polysaccharides: Preparation, Physicochemical Properties, and Health Benefits

Tea polysaccharide (TPS) is the second most abundant ingredient in tea following tea polyphenols. As a complex polysaccharide, TPS has a complex chemical structure and a variety of bioactivities, such as anti-oxidation, hypoglycemia, hypolipidemic, immune regulation, and anti-tumor. Additionally, it shows excellent development and application prospects in food, cosmetics, and medical and health care products. However, numerous studies have shown that the bioactivity of TPS is closely related to its sources, processing methods, and extraction methods. Therefore, the authors of this paper reviewed the relevant recent research and conducted a comprehensive and systematic review of the extraction methods, physicochemical properties, and bioactivities of TPS to strengthen the understanding and exploration of the bioactivities of TPS. This review provides a reference for preparing and developing functional TPS products.

Effects of oxidation-based tea processing on the characteristics of the derived polysaccharide conjugates and their regulation of intestinal homeostasis in DSS-induced colitis mice

Different cultivars and processing technologies involved in producing tea result in the high heterogeneity of derived polysaccharide conjugates, which limits the understanding of their composition and structure, and biological activity. Here, raw tea leaves from the same cultivar were used to produce dried fresh tea leaves, green tea, and black tea, and three polysaccharide conjugates derived from dried fresh tea leaves (FTPS), green tea (GTPS), and black tea (BTPS) were prepared accordingly. Their physiochemical characteristics and bioactivities were investigated. The results showed that the oxidation during tea processing increased the phenolics and proteins while decreasing the GalA in the derived TPS conjugates; meanwhile, it reduced the molecular weight and particle size of BTPS but enhanced their antioxidant activity in vitro. Furthermore, all three TPS conjugates improved intestinal homeostasis by reducing TJ protein loss and inflammation and alleviated DSS-induced colitis symptoms in mice. In addition, the three TPS conjugates showed differential regulation of the intestinal microbiome and altered the produced SCFAs, which contributed to the prevention of colitis. Our findings suggest that TPS conjugates could be applied in colitis prevention in association with the regulation of gut microbiota, and their efficacy could be optimized by employing suitable tea processing technologies.