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Regulatory effects of Lycium Barbarum polysaccharides on immune function and their application prospects

Summary

Lycium barbarum, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years, contains special compounds called polysaccharides that boost the immune system. These compounds work by activating immune cells like macrophages and T cells, and can help fight infections and reduce inflammation. Research shows they may also help with conditions like arthritis, cancer, and gut health by acting as a natural prebiotic that promotes beneficial bacteria.

Background

Lycium barbarum has been used as a traditional medicinal plant in China for over 2000 years. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) are the most important bioactive constituent with complex branched structures containing various monosaccharides. LBP demonstrates multiple biological functions including immunomodulation, anti-inflammation, antioxidation, and anti-aging.

Objective

This narrative review comprehensively searches recent literature on LBP’s immunomodulatory effects and mechanisms of action. The review aims to summarize advances in LBP research, reveal its potential value in immune regulation, and provide recommendations for future research and development.

Results

LBP regulates immune cells including macrophages, T cells, B cells, NK cells, and dendritic cells through multiple signaling pathways including TLR4/ERK1/2/Blimp1, STAT1/STAT6, and NF-κB pathways. LBP exhibits immunomodulatory effects in various disease models including cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, hepatic encephalopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and allergic rhinitis. As a natural prebiotic, LBP modulates gut microbiota composition and enhances systemic immune responses.

Conclusion

LBP demonstrates significant potential in immunomodulation and disease prevention through regulation of immune cell activities and suppression of inflammatory responses. Despite tremendous potential, LBP faces limitations in extraction technologies and clinical research that require further development. Future research should focus on advanced extraction methods, clinical trials, and elucidating additional mechanisms of action.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Immunology,
  • Study Type:Narrative Review,
  • Source: 41050703
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