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Improvement of intestinal microflora balance by polysaccharide from Physalis alkekengi var. francheti

Xinli Li1, Guang Yang1, Cuili Zhang1

  • 1Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China.

Molecular Medicine Reports
|December 4, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Physalis alkekengi var. francheti polysaccharide fraction (PPSB) promotes beneficial Lactobacillus growth and inhibits pathogenic bacteria, suggesting its potential for restoring intestinal microflora balance naturally.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Natural Products

Background:

  • Intestinal microflora imbalance is linked to various health issues.
  • Natural compounds are being explored for their gut health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To isolate and characterize a water-soluble polysaccharide fraction (PPSB) from Physalis alkekengi var. francheti.
  • To evaluate the effects of PPSB on intestinal microflora composition and function.

Main Methods:

  • Fractionation and purification of PPSB using DEAE-52 Cellulose and Sephadex G-200 chromatography.
  • In vitro assays to assess PPSB's effects on bacterial growth (Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Escherichia coli).
  • In vivo analysis of intestinal microflora in mice using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE).

Main Results:

  • PPSB demonstrated dose-dependent promotion of Lactobacillus delbrueckii growth and inhibition of Escherichia coli growth in vitro.
  • DGGE analysis revealed dominant bacterial genera including Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Akkermansia in mouse intestines.
  • PPSB significantly increased the abundance and diversity of the Lactobacillus genus in vivo.

Conclusions:

  • PPSB exhibits selective modulation of gut microbiota, favoring probiotics and suppressing pathogens.
  • The findings suggest PPSB is a promising natural agent for improving intestinal microflora balance and gut health.

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