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Structural Characterization and Hypoglycemic Function of Polysaccharides from Cordyceps cicadae
Yani Wang1, Tingting Zeng1, Hang Li2
1College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230601, China.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 21, 2023
Summary
Spore powder polysaccharides from Cordyceps cicadae (SPP) show significant hypoglycemic effects. SPP improves glucose and lipid metabolism and protects the liver in type 2 diabetes models by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Medicinal fungi like Cordyceps cicadae are sources of bioactive compounds.
- Polysaccharides are known for diverse biological activities, including metabolic regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize polysaccharides from Cordyceps cicadae.
- To evaluate the hypoglycemic effects and underlying mechanisms of these polysaccharides.
Main Methods:
- Polysaccharides (BSP, SPP, PPP) were extracted and purified from Cordyceps cicadae.
- Structural analysis using GC, FTIR, methylation, and NMR spectroscopy.
- In vitro (HepG2 cells) and in vivo (type 2 diabetes mice) assays for hypoglycemic activity and insulin resistance.
Main Results:
- BSP, SPP, and PPP enhanced glucose uptake and alleviated insulin resistance in vitro.
- SPP demonstrated the most potent hypoglycemic activity in vivo, improving metabolic parameters and liver function.
- SPP modulated mRNA expression of PI3K/Akt genes, indicating activation of the insulin signaling pathway.
Conclusions:
- Cordyceps cicadae polysaccharides, particularly SPP, possess significant hypoglycemic properties.
- SPP's mechanism involves activating the PI3K/Akt pathway to reduce hepatic insulin resistance.
- These findings support Cordyceps cicadae as a source for functional foods and therapeutics for diabetes.
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