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Structure-activity relationship of immunomodulating pectins from elderberries.

Giang Thanh Thi Ho1, Abeeda Ahmed1, Yuan-Feng Zou1

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1068, Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway.

Carbohydrate Polymers
|April 11, 2015
PubMed
Summary

Elderberries contain immunomodulating polysaccharides that stimulate the immune system. These compounds, particularly in the branched regions of pectic polymers, show potent activity against respiratory illnesses like colds and flu.

Keywords:
Complement systemImmunological activityLPSMacrophage stimulationPectic polysaccharidesSambucus nigra

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Area of Science:

  • Phytochemistry
  • Immunology
  • Polymer Science

Background:

  • Sambucus nigra (elderberry) berries have a long history of traditional use for treating respiratory ailments.
  • Scientific investigation into the active components responsible for these medicinal properties is ongoing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the structural characteristics of pectic polymers from elderberries.
  • To evaluate the immunomodulating effects of these isolated polysaccharides.

Main Methods:

  • Extraction of pectic polymers using ethanol and water at different temperatures.
  • Purification and structural analysis of polysaccharide fractions.
  • Assessment of complement fixation and macrophage activation assays.
  • Enzymatic and chemical hydrolysis to identify bioactive regions.

Main Results:

  • Purified elderberry fractions exhibited dose-dependent complement fixation and macrophage stimulation.
  • Polysaccharides comprised homogalacturonan regions and arabinogalactan side chains linked to a rhamnogalacturonan backbone.
  • Bioactivity decreased after hydrolysis of specific sugar residues (Araf, 1→3,6 Gal).
  • Enzymatic treatment of the rhamnogalacturonan region enhanced observed activities.

Conclusions:

  • Elderberries possess immunomodulating polysaccharides with significant bioactivity.
  • The branched rhamnogalacturonan regions of these polysaccharides are crucial for their observed immune-stimulating effects.
  • These findings support the traditional use of elderberries for respiratory health.