Search Results (2,496)

While numerous extraction methods have been applied to the brown algae Saccharina latissima, a systematic evaluation of how individual extraction parameters influence the extraction of each target polysaccharide has not previously been reported. Accordingly, this study compared conventional and advanced techniques for extracting fucoidan, laminarin, and alginate from pre-treated biomass. Conventional methods employed diluted acid (0.01 M and 0.1 M HCl), diluted alkali (0.01 M and 0.1 M NaOH), and hot water (121 °C for 30/60 min) for extraction. Advanced techniques involved pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) using water and moderate electric field (MEF) extraction with conditions optimized by statistical experimental design. Pre-treatment with aqueous ethanol removed 30% ash and eliminated mannitol, improving extraction selectivity. The results demonstrated fucoidan yields of 31% with 0.01 M HCl and 46% with 0.1 M NaOH, while 0.01 M NaOH facilitated laminarin co-extraction (45%). Alginate, as a mannuronic acid polymer, was obtained at 9% yield with 0.1 M HCl, 42% yield with 0.1 M NaOH, and 27% with pressurized hot water for 30 min. High-temperature, short-duration PLE further improved alginate yield, while MEF showed limited gains due to high ionic content but demonstrated potential under optimized settings. The results support a cascading biorefinery approach in which different polysaccharide fractions can be sequentially obtained, contributing to more sustainable seaweed valorization. Full article

Sarcodon aspratus fruiting polysaccharides (SAFP) exhibit multiple therapeutic properties. In this study, a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mouse model was established using a high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of SAFP. Then the benefits of SAFP on glucolipid metabolism, gut barrier integrity and intestinal microbiota were evaluated. The results indicated that SAFP alleviated disturbances in glycolipid metabolism and insulin resistance through activating Adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway. Furthermore, SAFP ameliorated hepatic inflammation and hepatic steatosis, as well as restored dysbiosis in hepatic function. Notably, SAFP enhanced intestinal mucosal architecture and strengthened epithelial barrier functionality through upregulated expression of tight junction components such as Zonula occludens-1(ZO-1), Claudin-1, and Occludin proteins. The 16S rRNA analysis indicated that SAFP has the potential to restore the intestinal microbial barrier in T2DM mice through elevation of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) concentrations and regulation of microbial community imbalances. This research offers foundational evidence supporting the utilization of SAFP as an innovative dietary supplement or prospective prebiotic component in functional food formulations targeting diabetes management. Full article

Background: Alginate is a naturally occurring anionic polysaccharide extracted from brown marine algae and widely explored for biomedical applications due to its biocompatibility and functional versatility. This study aims to extract and compare alginates from two Red Sea brown algae, Turbinaria ornata (TA) and Hormophysa cuneiformis (HA), and to evaluate how structural differences influence their therapeutic properties. Methods: Alginate was isolated by sequential acid–alkaline extraction and characterized using FTIR, XRD, TGA, elemental analysis, and HPLC. Biological activities were assessed through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective assays, supported by molecular docking and gene ontology interaction analysis. Results: Distinct physicochemical variations were observed between HA and TA. TA exhibited stronger antioxidant (IC₅₀ = 25.89 µg/mL), anti-inflammatory (COX-1 IC₅₀ = 69.61 µg/mL), antidiabetic (α-amylase IC₅₀ = 45.14 µg/mL), and hepatoprotective activities (IC₅₀ = 118.21 µg/mL), whereas HA displayed superior neuroprotective potential through butyrylcholinesterase inhibition (IC₅₀ = 39.01 µg/mL). Molecular docking supported the in vitro findings by confirming interactions with key protein targets associated with oxidative stress and metabolic pathways. Conclusions: Structural variation between species-derived alginates directly impacts their biological activities. TA represents a promising candidate for metabolic and anti-inflammatory therapies, while HA may be more suitable for neuroprotective interventions. These results emphasize the importance of source-specific alginate selection for developing targeted pharmaceutical applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to reveal the influence of the natural nanoparticles (Nnps) isolated from Gegen–Qinlian Decoction (GQD), i.e., GQD-Nnps, on the intestinal absorption and pharmacokinetic properties of several representative active GQD constituents. Methods: The morphology of GQD-Nnps was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Protein and polysaccharide contents were measured using the bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay and phenol–sulfuric acid method, respectively. Major GQD constituents were quantified by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Formation mechanisms were explored using dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Pharmacokinetic studies were conducted in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC. Results: GQD-Nnps were spherical, with a size of 110.9 ± 8.1 nm and a zeta potential of −13.7 ± 1.5 mV. GQD-Nnps were primarily composed of proteins and polysaccharides. FTIR analysis revealed significant hydrogen bonding interactions between the small molecular and macromolecular constituents of GQD. HRMS analyses indicated complex formation among small molecules, particularly berberine, baicalin, and glycyrrhizic acid. DLS demonstrated good stability of GQD-Nnps in artificial gastric and intestinal fluids. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that, except for puerarin, blood and liver exposure levels of several constituents in the GQD-Nnps group were significantly higher than those in the GQD extract group, suggesting enhanced colonic absorption and hepatic distribution. Conclusions: GQD-Nnps create an oral drug delivery system through complex interactions, significantly enhancing the colonic absorption and hepatic distribution of several active GQD constituents. Full article

Natural shampoos are increasingly designed to provide multifunctional benefits beyond cleansing, including hair conditioning, scalp protection, and reduced irritation potential. POLEVAN^®, a proprietary levan-based polysaccharide produced enzymatically from sugar, offers a combination of oligo- and polysaccharide fractions with potential cosmetic applications. This study evaluated POLEVAN^® in shampoo formulations for three targeted effects: improving hair glossiness, enhancing scalp moisturization, and boosting foam while enabling reduced surfactant levels. Glossiness was assessed ex vivo using damaged hair tresses. Moisturization was assessed in a randomized clinical trial, comparing the test formulation with hyaluronic acid (HA), employing corneometer readings and Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) measurements. The study was subject-blinded, and all outcomes were determined solely through quantitative, device-based measurements, minimizing observer bias. Foaming performance was tested using the Shaking Cylinder Method. Shampoos containing 2% POLEVAN^® significantly increased hair glossiness by 24% (p = 0.0375) versus a non-significant increase without POLEVAN^®. Moisturization studies showed no significant difference between POLEVAN^® and HA in maintaining hydration or preventing TEWL over 4 weeks. Foam analysis demonstrated that addition of POLEVAN^® allowed up to 50% reduction in surfactant content without compromising foam generation or stability. These results highlight POLEVAN^® as a multifunctional natural ingredient capable of improving sensory and performance attributes of shampoos while supporting gentler formulations. Full article

Food packaging serves a pivotal role in daily life, facilitating the efficient transportation of food and extending its shelf life. Petroleum-derived plastic packaging is extensively employed; however, its non-biodegradable nature poses significant environmental pollution and ecological degradation. Natural polymers (e.g., proteins such as gelatin and corn gluten protein; polysaccharides including pectin, chitosan, starch, cellulose, and alginate) and synthetic polymers (e.g., polyvinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, and polyhydroxyalkanoates) can be utilized to fabricate food packaging films, thereby achieving green and eco-friendly objectives. Nevertheless, the inferior mechanical strength and inadequate antibacterial activity of biopolymer-based packaging have restricted their practical applications. In recent years, nanomaterials (e.g., nanoparticles, nanotubes, nanofibers, and nanosheets) have been employed to enhance the performance of food packaging, emerging as a research hotspot. Notably, nanoparticles possess unique properties, including a high specific surface area, excellent dispersibility, and multifunctionality, which enables them to be easily incorporated into film matrices. Owing to their unique chemical structures, nanoparticles form strong interactions with film matrices, leading to a denser spatial structure. This not only markedly enhances the mechanical strength of the films, but also simultaneously improves their antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities. This review classifies and summarizes common nanomaterials based on their chemical compositions, providing a theoretical foundation and technical reference for the future development and application of nanomaterials in the field of bio-based active food packaging. Full article

Oxalis corniculata L. (O. corniculata) has attracted increasing attention as a natural source of antioxidants with diverse pharmacological potential. Phytochemical studies have identified a diverse spectrum of metabolites, dominated by flavonoids, polysaccharides, and organic acids. These compounds exhibit antioxidant properties as well as related biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic, and anticancer effects. Its long-standing use in traditional remedies, along with its incorporation into approved Chinese patent medicines, underscores its safety and translational value. This review synthesizes recent advances in the chemical composition, bioactivities, and molecular mechanisms of O. corniculata, emphasizing its antioxidant-driven pharmacological prospects. The review highlights O. corniculata as a sustainable and accessible botanical resource with significant potential for the development of pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and health-promoting applications. Full article

Breast cancer is a significant global health challenge, with rising incidence rates and substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Conventional treatments, while effective, often lead to adverse effects and may not fully eradicate cancer cells, resulting in recurrence and progression of tumors. Addressing these challenges requires innovative treatment strategies. Nanotechnology, particularly polysaccharide-based nanoparticles (NPs), offers a promising approach due to their biocompatibility, tunable properties, and targeted drug delivery capabilities. Polysaccharide NPs, including starch, alginate, hyaluronic acid, and chitosan, possess inherent biocompatibility and can be tailored for specific applications. Furthermore, beyond their inherent biocompatibility, polysaccharide-based NPs shown substantial interest due to their natural abundance, ease of processing, and availability from renewable resources, solidifying their role as a sustainable choice for diverse biomedical applications. By functionalizing their surface with ligands, polysaccharide NPs can target breast cancer cells, enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. Moreover, these NPs can modulate biological processes relevant to cancer progression, such as angiogenesis and immune response. This review article provides a concise overview of the pathophysiology of breast cancer and the benefits of polysaccharides in drug delivery. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of several polysaccharide-based NPs in breast cancer therapy, followed by a detailed discussion on the role of various polysaccharide-based NPs in breast cancer treatment. Full article

Disposable diapers contribute significantly to municipal solid waste, with non-biodegradable polymers such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) persisting in landfills for centuries. Biodegradable alternatives, including polylactic acid (PLA), poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), bamboo, and organic cotton, offer reduced environmental persistence, although challenges remain regarding cost, mechanical performance, and scalability. This review synthesizes current literature on these materials, highlighting their properties, biodegradation mechanisms, environmental performance, and commercial feasibility. In addition, we examine emerging biodegradable superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), such as polysaccharide-based hydrogels, chitosan, and nanocellulose, essential for fully compostable diapers. Our review uniquely integrates material performance, tropical high-humidity degradation, cost considerations, and consumer acceptance, providing insights into both technological advances and barriers to adoption. Key challenges include high production costs, supply chain limitations, and maintaining performance parity with conventional diapers. Finally, we discuss sustainable waste management strategies, including industrial composting, and identify future research directions focused on optimizing biopolymer properties, safety, and life-cycle impacts. This synthesis informs researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers seeking to advance environmentally responsible diaper products. Full article

According to existing ecological problems, one of the promising developments is the creation of polyfunctional materials, which can be biodegradable, along with possessing antibacterial activity. The present research proposes biocomposites based on PLA with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and natural polysaccharides obtained in a twin-screw extruder. Introduction of polysaccharides to PLA-based biocomposites with/without AgNPs led to significant decrease in the elastic modulus and tensile strength, while the elongation at break remained almost unchanged. Thanks to the presence of natural polysaccharides, there was intensified biodegradation in soil despite the AgNP availability. The maximal mass loss was 29% for the PLA–PEG₁₀₀₀–starch + AgNPs (80:10:10 + 0.5 wt%) biocomposite. Analyses of the systems before and after soil exposure were carried out using DSC and FTIR spectroscopy methods. According to a thermal analysis, it was found that PLA crystalline regions degrade during exposure to soil. The same feature was detected during the spectral analysis. The intensity of the characteristic absorption bands of PLA decreased. Furthermore, it was found that the dark areas on the surface of the materials are of a polysaccharide nature and may be signs of biofouling of the materials by microbial flora. The tests on fungus resistance showed that biocidal additives such as AgNPs in PLA-based biocomposites with polysaccharides did not inhibit the development of mycelial fungi–biodestructors. And the increased amount of chitosan in the films contributed to their more active destruction by the end of the observation period. It was demonstrated that such biocomposites can inhibit bacterial growth. Full article

In this study, succinoglycan (SG), an anionic exopolysaccharide derived from Sinorhizobium meliloti Rm1021, was chemically modified to introduce boronic acid groups, creating a boronic-acid-functionalized polysaccharide (SG-APBA). The degree of substitution varied from 4.24% to 24.3%, depending on APBA concentration, with SG-APBA 2 identified as the optimal formulation. The properties of SG-APBA were characterized using ¹H NMR, FTIR, TGA, and XRD, along with rheological analysis to assess changes in the polymer’s behavior. The hydrogel, referred to as SAT, was formed through dynamic boronate-ester bonds and hydrogen bonds between SG-APBA and tannic acid (TA). This hydrogel demonstrated excellent injectability, self-healing capacity, and biocompatibility. Incorporation of boronic acid groups allowed the hydrogel to respond to variations in glucose levels and pH, enabling controlled TA release and enhancing its stimulus-responsive antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Antioxidant performance was confirmed through DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays, achieving respective activities of 89.8% and 96.4%. Antibacterial effectiveness was validated via inhibition zone tests. Additionally, the SAT hydrogel exhibited dual responsiveness to pH and glucose, with TA release percentages of 55.4% at pH 9.0, 62.7% at pH 7.4, and 69.9% at pH 5.0; and 62.7% at 0 mM glucose, 68.9% at 5 mM, and 72.5% at 25 mM glucose after 120 h. Moreover, combined alterations in pH and glucose triggered a synergistic double-shock effect, markedly accelerating TA release relative to individual stimuli. Overall, these results indicate that the SG-APBA/TA hydrogel has strong potential as a stimuli-responsive platform for drug delivery and biomedical applications. Full article

Truffles are edible symbiotic hypogeal fungi and highly prized worldwide for their unique aroma and rich nutritional profile. Belonging to the order Pezizales and family Tuberaceae, with the genus Tuber being the most notable, truffles contain a diverse array of bioactive compounds including phenols, terpenoids, polysaccharides, anandamide, fatty acids, and ergosterols. These compounds contribute to a wide range of biological activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and anticancer effects. This review comprehensively summarizes current scientific evidence on the biochemical composition, nutritional and aromatic properties, and biological activities of truffles, with special emphasis on their antioxidant and anti-tumor potential. Additionally, factors influencing truffle productivity and quality as well as advanced extraction and storage techniques to preserve bioactivity are discussed, highlighting their potential as valuable functional foods and sources of natural antioxidants. Full article

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa), commonly known as yellow passion fruit, is widely grown across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with Brazil as one of the top producers. Mexico also produces a significant amount of this variety, mainly for juices, jams, or flavoring in desserts. Since this fruit is highly perishable with a short shelf life, it needs to be consumed or used quickly. Although different preservation methods have been suggested, no structural analyses of the peel have been performed to improve these processes. This study aimed to analyze the structural and chemical properties of the peel’s cuticular matrix to better understand water loss. CPMAS ¹³C NMR analysis revealed a matrix containing polysaccharides, a small amount of aliphatics, and a notable group of aromatic signals that may indicate lignin presence. This was supported by alkaline hydrolysis, which achieved only 30% hydrolysis. Soluble compounds identified included hexoses, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and derivatives of ferulic and caffeic acids, the latter being parts of lignin monomers. MCL and SEM analyses showed features similar to cutans, including pores along the structures. The BET surface area measurement indicated that the insoluble cuticular material (ICM) has a significant specific surface area. The lignin in the yellow passion fruit peel gives the shell toughness, which, along with its pores, may contribute to dehydration and a short shelf life. Full article

Comprehensive maternal nutritional interventions, particularly during late gestation, enhance perinatal outcomes and support long-term maternal-offspring health by modulating the microbiota. Fermented diets are recommended for inclusion in dietary guidelines during gestation, yet the specific metabolites after fermentation and their specific regulatory effects on gut microbiota during late gestation remain unclear. This study investigates the functional benefits of a fermented wheat bran–soybean meal–Broussonetia papyrifera mixed substrate (FMS) on the late-gestation gut microbiota using an in vitro fermentation model. The FMS was first fermented for 72 h with bacterial and enzymatic agents (2% v/v), then anaerobically incubated with fecal inocula from Jinhua pigs. Fermentation significantly enhanced nutritional profiles, increasing crude protein and amino acids while reducing fiber components (neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and non-starch polysaccharide, p < 0.05). Metabolome analysis revealed a significant increase in the abundance of organic acids, amino acids, and short peptides in FMS, along with the enrichment of D-amino acid and sphingolipid pathways (p < 0.05). In addition, FMS significantly increased the abundance of Limosilactobacillus and Lactobacillus, as well as short-chain fatty acids production, compared to the unfermented group (p < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that fermentation pretreatment reduces fiber components, enhances flavor compounds and bioactive metabolites, thereby optimizing microbial utilization and increasing short-chain fatty acids production. Full article

Marine algae are a sustainable and eco-friendly resource, growing rapidly without freshwater or arable land while aiding carbon sequestration. Their extract is rich in biodegradable polysaccharides like alginate, fucoidan, carrageenan, agar, and Ulvan which can be used further in wound healing thanks to their unique characteristics such as ensuring moisture balance and tissue regeneration by forming biocompatible hydrogels with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, key requirements in wound healing. The present study explored the utilization of local grown marine algae (i.e., Aegean seashores from Türkiye) and transforming the waste into useful end-products for dermatocosmetics and healing systems. The extracted polyssacharide, e.g., Ulvan which was characterized by means of FT-IR spectroscopy, DSC, and antioxidant activity, was included inside a semi-solid formulation and combined with other polysaccharides from other natural sources such a chitosan, alginate, and hyaluronic acid to form bioactive hydrogels with wound closure activity. The formulated hydrogels exhibited significant swelling capacity, antioxidant activity, and the selected optimal formulation exhibited enhanced wound closure rates in vitro, demonstrating potential for wound-healing applications. Full article