Neuroprotective effects of goji berry (Lycium barbarum L.) polysaccharides on depression-like behavior in ovariectomized rats: behavioral and biochemical evidence

Ferroptosis-associated signaling pathways and therapeutic approaches in depression

Ferroptosis, a newly identified form of cell death, is characterized by excessive iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Studies indicate a strong association between ferroptosis and depression; however, the precise signaling pathways and underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This review summarizes the role of ferroptosis in depression and its associated signaling pathways. Additionally, therapeutic approaches for depression based on ferroptosis theory are reviewed, providing novel targets for the prevention and treatment of depression and laying a foundation for future research on the relationship between ferroptosis and depression.

Exploring phytochemicals and their pharmacological applications from ethnomedicinal plants: A focus on Lycium barbarum, Solanacea

Lycium barbarum is a species commonly utilized in dietary supplements and natural healthcare products. Lycium barbarum also referred to as wolfberry or goji berry, are predominantly found in China, Japan, Korea, and North America. Lycium barbarum has a lengthy history as a medicinal and functional food. Recent studies showcasing their exceptional bioac-tive properties have led to an increase in their cultivation and popularity worldwide. Lycium barbarum have been recognized as a valuable source of functional ingredients with promising applications in the food and medical sectors. Lycium barbarum are rich in phytochemical compounds such as polysaccharides, carotenoids, organic acids, carbohydrates (fructose and glucose), phenolic compounds (such as phenolic acids and flavonoids), and vitamins (ascorbic acid). Various biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, prebiotic, neuroprotective, antidiabetic, and gastroprotective effects, have linked to their consumption. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the phytochemical components as well as the biological active properties of Lycium barbarum.

The combination of HSI and NMR techniques with deep learning for identification of geographical origin and GI markers of Lycium barbarum L

Lycium barbarum L. (L. barbarum) is renowned worldwide for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. Rapid and accurate identification of L.barbarum's geographic origin is essential because its nutritional content, medicinal efficacy, and market price significantly vary by region. This study proposes an innovative method combining hyperspectral imaging (HSI), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and an improved ResNet-34 deep learning model to accurately identify the geographical origin and geographical indication (GI) markers of L.barbarum. The deep learning model achieved a 95.63% accuracy, surpassed traditional methods by 6.26% and reduced runtime by 29.9% through SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP)-based feature selection. Pearson correlation analysis between GI markers and HSI characteristic wavelengths enhanced the interpretability of HSI data and further reduced runtime by 33.99%. This work lays the foundation for portable multispectral devices, offering a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective solution for quality assurance and market regulation of L.barbarum products.

Along the microbiota-gut-brain axis: Use of plant polysaccharides to improve mental disorders

With the development of gut microbiota-specific interventions for mental disorders, the interactions between plant polysaccharides and microbiota in the intestinal and their consequent effects are becoming increasingly important. In this review, we discussed the role of plant polysaccharides in improving various mental disorders via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. The chemical and structural characteristics and metabolites of these plant polysaccharides were summarised. Plant polysaccharides and their metabolites have great potential for reshaping gut microbiota profiles through gut microbiota-dependent fermentation. Along the microbiota-gut-brain axis, the consequent pharmacological processes that lead to the elimination of the symptoms of mental disorders include 1) regulation of the central monoamine neurotransmitters, amino acid transmitters and cholinergic signalling system; 2) alleviation of central and peripheral inflammation mainly through the NLRP3/NF-κB-related signalling pathway; 3) inhibition of neuronal apoptosis; and 4) enhancement of antioxidant activities. According to this review, monosaccharide glucose and structure -4-α-Glcp-(1→ are the most potent compositions of the most reported plant polysaccharides. However, the causal structure-activity relationship remains to be extensively explored. Moreover, mechanistic elucidation, safety verification, and additional rigorous human studies are expected to advance plant polysaccharide-based product development targeting the microbiota-gut-brain axis for people with mental disorders.