Spirulina subsalsa polysaccharide: self-assembling hydrogel material for immunotherapy applications

Polysaccharides are the primary bioactive components of microalgae and play a pivotal role in human health. They can exert immunomodulatory effects by enhancing immune organ indices and promoting immune cell proliferation, which may aid in the clinical treatments for immune-related diseases. In this study, Spirulina subsalsa polysaccharides (SPS) formed natural hydrogels through hydrogen bonding, without the addition of crosslinking agents. SPS formed a stable hydrogel at 2.5% (w/v), demonstrating exceptional water retention and swelling properties. Microstructural testing and infrared spectral analysis revealed that SPS possesses a unique nanoporous structure, which could have potential applications in catalysis and drug release. Furthermore, SPS exhibited immunomodulatory functions by promoting the synthesis and release of NO in macrophages, inhibiting the excessive production of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α, and enhancing the level of the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. These findings support the potential use of SPS hydrogel in wound dressings and drug delivery applications.