Research Topic: polysaccharides

Leveraging polysaccharide-derived nanocarriers to open new horizons in oral vaccine activation

Oral vaccines are easier to administer than injections, but the stomach’s harsh environment destroys them before they work. Scientists are developing special nanocarrier particles made from natural plant materials, especially those used in traditional Chinese medicine, that protect vaccine ingredients and trigger stronger immune responses in the gut. These carriers work like protective vehicles that deliver vaccines safely to immune cells in the intestines, potentially revolutionizing how we vaccinate people worldwide.

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Nettle (Urtica cannabina L.) polysaccharides as a novel dietary supplement: enhancing systemic antioxidant status via modulation of the gut–liver axis

This study found that nettle polysaccharides, especially at lower doses, act as a natural supplement that boosts the body’s antioxidant defenses. The supplement works by promoting beneficial bacteria in the gut, which produce helpful metabolites that signal to the liver to enhance protective antioxidant enzymes. These findings suggest nettle polysaccharides could be a promising natural ingredient for health-conscious food products aimed at maintaining metabolic wellness.

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Biphasic Fermentation of Trapa bispinosa Shells by Ganoderma sinense and Characterization of Its Polysaccharides and Alcoholic Extract and Analysis of Their Bioactivity

This study investigated fermenting water chestnut shells with a medicinal mushroom called Ganoderma sinense to create a more potent health product. Under optimal fermentation conditions, the resulting material showed significantly improved immune-boosting and antioxidant properties when tested in laboratory cells. The fermentation process changed the structure of polysaccharides and increased beneficial compounds, potentially transforming agricultural waste into a valuable functional food or supplement.

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Medicinal Mushrooms: Their Bioactive Components, Nutritional Value and Application in Functional Food Production—A Review

Medicinal mushrooms like Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Shiitake contain powerful compounds that may help fight cancer, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation. These mushrooms are low in calories and can be added to everyday foods like bread, pasta, and meat products to boost their nutritional value. While promising, more research is needed to confirm how much people should consume and whether they interact safely with medications.

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Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Boletus edulis, Imleria badia, Leccinum scabrum in the Context of Environmental Conditions and Heavy Metals Bioaccumulation

This study examined three popular edible mushroom species from Poland to understand their nutritional benefits and safety. While all three mushrooms are rich in beneficial compounds like antioxidants and immune-boosting polysaccharides, Boletus edulis (porcini) accumulates concerning levels of cadmium from soil. The research shows these mushrooms are safe in normal amounts, but eating excessive quantities of porcini mushrooms could exceed safe limits for toxic metals, especially for people in polluted areas.

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Extraction, Characterization, Biological Properties, and X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Functional Polysaccharides Derived from Limnospira platensis

Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) is a nutrient-dense microalga that contains beneficial polysaccharides with multiple health benefits. Researchers extracted and analyzed these polysaccharides, finding they have strong antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels by inhibiting α-glucosidase enzymes. These compounds also support beneficial gut bacteria growth, making spirulina a promising natural ingredient for functional foods and health supplements.

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Structural Elucidation of Heteropolysaccharides from the Peach-Shaped Dictyophora indusiata and Its Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Researchers extracted polysaccharides from peach-shaped bamboo fungus (Dictyophora indusiata) and discovered they contain beneficial beta-glucans. When tested on human immune cells triggered to become inflamed, these polysaccharides reduced inflammatory markers and messenger proteins. The compounds were found to be chemically stable under various conditions, suggesting potential use as a natural anti-inflammatory supplement or food ingredient.

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Lentinan inhibits colorectal cancer stemness by binding CD133 and suppressing the CD133/p85/p-AKT signaling axis

Researchers discovered that lentinan, a natural compound from shiitake mushrooms, can specifically target and kill cancer stem cells in colorectal cancer by binding to a protein called CD133. This is significant because cancer stem cells are the reason why cancers come back even after treatment. By blocking a specific pathway these cells use to survive, lentinan may help prevent cancer recurrence and reduce the side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy.

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Modulating the gut microbiota is involved in the effect of low-molecular-weight Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide on immune function

Researchers studied a natural compound from licorice called Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide (GP) to see if it could help restore immune function in mice weakened by chemotherapy. GP treatment improved intestinal health, boosted immune cells, and changed the gut bacteria composition to favor beneficial strains. The study shows that GP works partly by modifying which bacteria live in the gut, which then support the immune system. This research suggests GP could be useful as a natural supplement for strengthening immunity and treating intestinal inflammation.

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Unveiling the Therapeutic Potentials of Mushroom Bioactive Compounds in Alzheimer’s Disease

Mushrooms contain special compounds that may help protect the brain from Alzheimer’s disease. Research shows that eating mushrooms regularly could reduce the risk of memory problems and cognitive decline in older adults. These compounds work by reducing brain inflammation, protecting nerve cells, and helping the brain clear out harmful proteins. While these findings are promising, more human studies are needed to confirm how effective mushrooms are as an Alzheimer’s treatment.

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