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Pectic polysaccharides from Polygonum cuspidatum: structural characterization and protective effects against
Yu-Ping Fu1, Cen-Yu Li2, Hong Yan2
1Institute of West China Preventive and Medical Integration for Major Disease, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
A novel pectic polysaccharide (PCP-I) from Polygonum cuspidatum demonstrates significant potential in preventing intestinal inflammatory disease. This compound effectively reduces colitis symptoms by modulating inflammatory pathways and restoring gut microbiota balance.
Area of Science:
- Plant-derived compounds
- Immunology
- Microbiome research
Background:
- Polygonum cuspidatum (PC) is a traditional Chinese medicine with known gastrointestinal benefits.
- The role of non-glucan polysaccharides in PC for preventing intestinal inflammation remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize a polysaccharide from PC.
- To investigate the therapeutic potential of this polysaccharide in experimental colitis.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and structural characterization of an acidic polysaccharide (PCP-I) from PC.
- Induction of experimental colitis using dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in a mouse model.
- Assessment of colonic inflammation, barrier function, and gut microbiota composition.
Main Results:
- An acidic pectic polysaccharide (PCP-I, 134.45 kDa) composed mainly of GalA, Gal, Ara, and Rha was isolated.
- PCP-I treatment ameliorated DSS-induced colitis, reducing inflammation and restoring barrier function.
- PCP-I modulated the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway and promoted beneficial gut bacteria like Alistipes and Akkermansia.
Conclusions:
- PCP-I, a pectic polysaccharide from PC, is a key active component for preventing colitis.
- PCP-I exhibits anti-inflammatory effects via pathway modulation and gut microbiota restoration.
- PCP-I shows promise as a preventive agent for intestinal inflammatory diseases.
