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The Role of Wolfiporia cocos Polysaccharides in Regulating the Gut Microbiota and Its Health Benefits

Summary

This research examines how polysaccharides from the medicinal mushroom Wolfiporia cocos can benefit human health by influencing gut bacteria. These natural compounds act as prebiotics that promote beneficial gut bacteria growth while reducing harmful bacteria. The study shows how these mushroom compounds can help with various health conditions through their effects on gut health. Key impacts on everyday life: • May help prevent and treat digestive disorders naturally • Could provide a safer alternative for managing inflammatory conditions • Offers potential new approaches for weight management through gut health • May help strengthen the immune system naturally • Could reduce side effects from antibiotic use by supporting healthy gut bacteria

Background

Wolfiporia cocos is a widely used traditional Chinese medicinal herb belonging to the Polyporaceae family. It contains various bioactive ingredients including polysaccharides, triterpenes, and sterols. The polysaccharides, as the most prominent constituent making up 70-90% of the fungus, demonstrate superior anti-obesity, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities.

Objective

This review aims to summarize recent cases of W. cocos polysaccharides regulating the gut microbiota to promote health and discuss their relationship with bioactive functions. It seeks to provide a basis for exploring new mechanisms of these polysaccharides in promoting intestinal health and offers a vision for further development of functional products.

Results

The review found that W. cocos polysaccharides can regulate gut microbiota by promoting beneficial bacteria growth while inhibiting harmful bacteria. They influence short-chain fatty acid production and regulate flora-associated metabolites. The polysaccharides demonstrate multiple health benefits including anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and immunomodulatory effects through gut microbiota modulation.

Conclusion

W. cocos polysaccharides act comprehensively on intestinal microbiota through multiple mechanisms including promoting beneficial bacteria growth, increasing short-chain fatty acid production, regulating intestinal barrier function, influencing host metabolism, and altering bacterial flora structure. These mechanisms work together to maintain intestinal micro-ecological balance and enhance immune defense.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/molecules30061193
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