Isolation Techniques, Structural Characteristics, and Pharmacological Effects of Phellinus Polysaccharides: A Review

Author: mycolabadmin
6/27/2024
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Summary

This review examines how scientists extract and study beneficial compounds called polysaccharides from a medicinal fungus called Phellinus. These polysaccharides show promise in fighting cancer, reducing inflammation, and boosting immune function. Different extraction methods affect the quality and effectiveness of these compounds, and researchers are working to optimize these techniques for better therapeutic applications.

Background

Phellinus is a precious perennial medicinal fungus used in Asian traditional medicine for centuries. Its polysaccharides are important bioactive components with complex chemical composition, primarily extracted from fruiting bodies and mycelium. These polysaccharides demonstrate multiple pharmacological activities including antitumor, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Objective

This review provides a comprehensive examination of extraction and purification methodologies for Phellinus polysaccharides. It delves into structural characteristics, pharmacological activities, and mechanisms of action to serve as a valuable resource for researchers advancing studies on Phellinus polysaccharides and their potential applications.

Results

Hot water extraction yields 6.64% polysaccharides under optimal conditions (100°C, 2h, 1:15 solid:liquid ratio). Microwave-assisted extraction shows 20.5% higher yield than hot water methods. Polysaccharides demonstrate 96.7% tumor inhibition rates and significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Molecular weights range from 10^4 to 10^6 Da with glucose as primary monosaccharide (50-70%).

Conclusion

Phellinus polysaccharides exhibit diverse pharmacological activities through multiple mechanisms including cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, and immune enhancement. Extraction and purification methods significantly influence polysaccharide properties and efficacy. Further research on extracellular polysaccharides and in vivo studies is needed to fully understand mechanisms and support clinical applications.

Published in:Molecules,
Study Type:Review,
Source: PMID: 38998999, DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133047