The Structure-Decoding-Conversion-Effect Paradigm of Natural Polysaccharides for Gut Microbiota Remodeling in...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease linked to gut microbiota imbalances.
• Natural polysaccharides offer a promising therapeutic avenue for UC by modulating gut microecology due to their prebiotic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review mechanisms of natural polysaccharides in alleviating UC via gut microbiota modulation.
• To focus on the structure-activity relationship between polysaccharide structure and microbiota-regulating functions.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of how distinct polysaccharide structures are recognized and degraded by gut microbial carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes).
• Investigating the targeted enrichment of beneficial genera (e.g., Roseburia, Lactobacillus, Akkermansia) and suppression of pro-inflammatory genera (e.g., Escherichia-Shigella, Helicobacter).

Main Results:

• Polysaccharide structure dictates microbial remodeling, influencing the gut microbiome composition.
• This remodeling enhances beneficial metabolite production, repairs the intestinal barrier, reduces inflammation, and alleviates oxidative stress.
• Therapeutic effects are mediated through signaling pathways like AMPK and Nrf2 activation and NF-κB inhibition.

Conclusions:

• A "Structure-Decoding-Conversion-Effect" paradigm highlights precise microecological regulation by polysaccharides.
• This provides a theoretical foundation for developing targeted microecological interventions for UC.