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Recent developments in stigma maydis polysaccharides: Isolation, structural characteristics, biological activities
Yi Zhang1, Chunfang Wang1, Chenxia Liu1
1Research Center for Agricultural Products Preservation and Processing, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201403, PR China.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|February 5, 2020
Summary
Stigma maydis polysaccharide (SMP) shows significant immune-enhancement, antitumor, and antioxidant activities. This review summarizes SMP extraction, purification, structure, and biological functions, highlighting its potential in pharmaceuticals and healthy foods.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Food Science
Background:
- Stigma maydis (corn silk) is traditionally used in China and Western countries.
- Polysaccharides are key bioactive components in Stigma maydis.
- These compounds exhibit diverse biological activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advancements in Stigma maydis polysaccharide (SMP) extraction and purification.
- To summarize structural characteristics and biological activities of SMPs.
- To discuss industrial applications and future research directions for SMPs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Stigma maydis polysaccharides.
- Analysis of extraction, purification, and structural characterization techniques.
- Compilation of data on in vivo biological activities and proposed mechanisms.
Main Results:
- SMPs possess immune-enhancement, antitumor, antioxidant, anti-fatigue, diuretic, liver protection, antihyperglycaemic, and hypolipidemic properties.
- Various methods for SMP extraction and purification have been developed.
- Evidence from in vivo experiments supports the diverse bioactivities of SMPs.
Conclusions:
- Stigma maydis polysaccharides are promising bioactive compounds with broad therapeutic potential.
- Further research into SMP structure-activity relationships and industrial applications is warranted.
- SMPs represent a valuable resource for the pharmaceutical and healthy food industries.
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