Search Results (328)

Traditional polysaccharide extraction suffers from low efficiency and high energy consumption, while deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are promising sustainable solvents. This study used DES ChCl-LA (1:2) with ultrasonic assistance to extract polysaccharides from red alga A.taxiformis. Optimized via single-factor experiments and response surface methodology (350 W, 1:30 g/mL, 75 °C), the yield reached 11.28% ± 0.50% (1.5 times higher than that obtained by water extraction). Structural characterization revealed that the DES extract was an acidic polysaccharide, mainly composed of galactose (89.2%), glucose (4.9%), xylose (4.9%), and glucuronic acid (1.0%), with a weight-average molecular weight of 99.88 kDa. Density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulations showed that ChCl-LA enhanced galactose solubility via stronger hydrogen bonding (−25.33 vs. −5.06 kcal/mol for water). Notably, the immunological activity of the DES-extracted polysaccharide was significantly compromised compared to the water-extracted counterpart (p < 0.05). At a concentration of 0.25 mg/mL, the water-extracted polysaccharide-treated group exhibited a 33.98% higher neutral red phagocytosis rate in macrophages, a nitric oxide (NO) secretion level of 34.14 μmol/L (94.98% higher) compared with the DES-extracted polysaccharide group, as well as significantly higher secretion levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The observed disparity in bioactivity is likely due to the distinct chemical profiles resulting from the two extraction methods, including the significantly reduced molecular weight and potential alterations of sulfation degree, monosaccharide composition, and protein content in the DES-extracted polysaccharide. This mechanistic perspective is supported by the relevant literature on the structure–activity relationships of polysaccharides. This study demonstrates the potential of ChCl-LA and elucidates the complex effects of extraction methods on polysaccharide’s structure and function, thereby informing the high-value utilization of A. taxiformis in functional foods. Full article

Leccinum is an ecologically significant and taxonomically complex genus of ectomycorrhizal fungi widely distributed across boreal, temperate, Mediterranean, and selected tropical regions. Despite its ecological, nutritional, and applied importance, no comprehensive review has previously synthesized global knowledge on this genus. This work provides the first integrative assessment of Leccinum research, combining a bibliometric analysis of 293 peer-reviewed publications with an in-depth qualitative synthesis of ecological, biochemical, and environmental findings. Bibliometric results show increasing scientific attention since the mid-20th century, with major contributions from Europe, Asia, and North America, and dominant research themes spanning taxonomy, ecology, chemistry, and environmental sciences. The literature review highlights substantial advances in phylogenetic understanding, species diversity, and host specificity. Leccinum forms ectomycorrhizal associations with over 60 woody host genera, underscoring its functional importance in forest ecosystems. Nutritionally, Leccinum species are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, bioactive polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, and umami-related peptides, with demonstrated antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antitumor activities. At the same time, the genus exhibits notable bioaccumulation capacity for heavy metals (particularly Hg, Cd, and Pb) and radionuclides, making it both a valuable food source and a sensitive environmental bioindicator. Applications in biotechnology, environmental remediation, forest restoration, and functional food development are emerging but remain insufficiently explored. Identified research gaps include the need for global-scale phylogenomic frameworks, expanded geographic sampling, standardized biochemical analyses, and deeper investigation into physiological mechanisms and applied uses. This review provides the first holistic synthesis of Leccinum, offering an integrated perspective on its taxonomy, ecology, nutritional composition, environmental significance, and practical applications. The findings serve as a foundation for future mycological, ecological, and biotechnological research on this diverse and understudied fungal genus. Full article

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) produced by actinomycetes of the genus Rhodococcus play crucial roles in their ecological success, metabolic versatility, and biotechnological value. This review summarizes existing studies of Rhodococcus EPSs, emphasizing the biochemical composition, functional attributes, and practical significance of EPSs, as well as their importance in biomedicine, bioremediation, and other applications (food industry, biomineralization) with respect to the EPS chemical composition and biological roles. Rhodococcus species synthesize complex EPSs composed primarily of polysaccharides, proteins and lipids that, like in other bacteria, support cell adhesion, aggregation, biofilm formation, and horizontal gene transfer (and can prevent exogenous DNA binding) and are highly important for resistance against toxicants and dissolution/assimilation of hydrophobic compounds. EPSs produced by different species of Rhodococcus exhibit diverse structures (soluble EPSs, loosely bound and tightly bound fractions, capsules, linear and branched chains, amorphous coils, rigid helices, mushroom-like structures, extracellular matrix, and a fibrillar structure with a sheet-like texture), leading to variations in their properties (rheological features, viscosity, flocculation, sorption abilities, compression, DNA binding, and interaction with hydrophobic substrates). Notably, the EPSs exhibit marked emulsifying and flocculating properties, contributing to their recognized role in bioremediation. Furthermore, EPSs possess antiviral, antibiofilm, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferating activities and high viscosity, which are valuable in terms of biomedical and food applications. Despite extensive industrial and environmental interest, the molecular regulation, biosynthetic pathways, and structural diversity of Rhodococcus EPSs remain insufficiently characterized. Advancing our understanding of these biopolymers could expand new applications in biomedicine, bioremediation, and biotechnology. Full article

Fruit softening in Carica papaya L. is a significant postharvest limitation, primarily driven by the dynamic remodeling of cell wall polysaccharides. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide identification and in silico characterization of gene families involved in cell wall assembly and disassembly in papaya. A total of 181 genes were identified and classified into metabolic pathways: hemicellulose (58), pectin (69), extensin (24), expansin (13), and cellulose (17). These genes encode 176 predicted proteins, ranging in size from 100 to 1093 amino acids, featuring family-specific catalytic domains, including glycosyl hydrolases, transferases, and serine/threonine kinases. Phylogenetic analyses revealed strong conservation within the expansin-A and pectin polygalacturonase subfamilies, while hemicellulose-related XTH genes exhibited significant diversification. Experimental validation of nine XTH members confirmed this diversification, with amplicons ranging from 322 to 1370 bp, consistent with computational predictions. Notably, CpXTH1 and CpXTH32 produced bands of approximately 1200 and 1400 bp, respectively. These findings underscore the complexity of papaya cell wall gene families and provide a molecular framework for understanding fruit softening. Given that postharvest losses of papaya in Mexico exceed 34.7% of production (approximately 150,000 tons annually), our results offer valuable genomic resources for biotechnological strategies aimed at extending shelf life and reducing economic losses. Full article

This study explores the fabrication and characterization of Pickering high internal phase emulsions (P-HIPEs) stabilized by soy protein isolate (SPI) and coix polysaccharide (CP) complex. CP exhibited high purity (95.29%) with a molecular weight of 5.53 × 10⁵ Da and was predominantly composed of glucose, as confirmed by monosaccharide analysis and FT-IR spectroscopy. SPI/CP complexes formed well-dispersed nanoparticles with optimal stability at 2% CP concentration, demonstrated by minimal particle size and enhanced zeta potential. P-HIPEs stabilized by these complexes showed excellent physical stability without phase separation or oil leakage, with the creaming index decreasing as particle concentration increased, reaching optimal stability at 12% SPI/CP and pH 9. Particle size and zeta potential measurements indicated smaller, more uniform droplets and intensified electrostatic repulsion under these conditions, effectively preventing droplet coalescence. Confocal microscopy revealed a dense, multilayered interfacial network formed by SPI/CP complexes around oil droplets, enhancing emulsion stability. Rheological analyses confirmed that P-HIPEs exhibited elastic solid-like gel behavior with pronounced shear-thinning and superior thixotropic recovery at 12% SPI/CP and alkaline pH, highlighting improved gel strength and structural integrity. These findings demonstrate the critical influence of SPI/CP concentration and pH on the physicochemical, microstructural, and rheological properties of P-HIPEs, offering valuable insights for developing stable emulsions with enhanced performance and applicability in food systems. Notably, the results emphasize the critical role of SPI/CP concentration and pH in achieving optimal emulsion stability and rheological properties. Full article

This study addresses the growing consumer demand for effective and sustainable hair care solutions by evaluating a novel bioactive crosslink repair complex designed to restore chemically damaged hair. The complex comprises itaconic acid, arginine, D-panthenol, and polysaccharides from linseed and chia, which work synergistically to promote fiber crosslinking, protein restructuring, and cuticle barrier restoration. The complex was incorporated into two formulations: a bleaching mixture as a protective agent and a leave-in conditioner as a repair treatment for chemically damaged hair. The protective efficacy was assessed through tensile strength measurements, differential scanning calorimetry, combability tests, shine evaluation, and scanning electron microscopy. The repair potential was evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry and tensile strength analysis. Results demonstrated that incorporating the complex into the bleaching mixture significantly enhanced break stress, denaturation enthalpy, shine, and combability, while maintaining improved cuticle alignment. The hair repair evaluation showed that post-treatment application of the complex successfully restored hair tensile strength and denaturation. These findings confirm the dual functionality of Bioactive Crosslink Repair Complex as both a protective and reparative agent, highlighting synergistic mechanisms in preventing and reversing chemical damage to hair fibers. This bioactive approach offers a promising alternative for hair care formulations targeting chemically treated hair. Full article

This study aimed to elucidate the impact of Persian Gum (PG; Amygdalus scoparia Spach) on the heat-induced aggregation and interfacial behavior of whey protein isolate (WPI). To achieve this, pure WPI and mixed WPI-PG systems were subjected to thermal treatments between 25 and 85 °C, and their structural and functional changes were characterized using fluorescence spectroscopy, UV-vis absorption, turbidity and bulk viscosity measurements, interfacial shear and dilatational rheology, and foaming assessments. The presence of PG altered the aggregation pathway of WPI in a temperature-dependent manner, producing smaller, more soluble complexes with lower turbidity, particularly at higher temperatures. Both pure WPI and WPI-PG mixtures exhibited increased surface hydrophobicity upon heating; however, PG generally reduced the dilatational elastic modulus except at 85 °C, where the mixed system showed a higher modulus than WPI alone. In contrast, the interfacial shear modulus increased over time in all samples, with consistently higher values observed for WPI-PG mixtures at both 25 °C and 85 °C. Notably, three complementary methods were employed to evaluate foaming properties and interfacial behavior in this study, revealing that factors such as concentration, measurement time, and methodological approach strongly influence the observed responses, highlighting the complexity of interpreting protein-polysaccharide interactions. The ability of PG to modulate WPI unfolding and limit the formation of large aggregates during heating demonstrates a previously unreported mechanism by which PG tailors heat-induced protein network formation. These findings underscore the potential of Persian Gum as a functional polysaccharide for designing heat-treated food systems with controlled aggregation behavior and optimized interfacial performance. Full article

When an orthokeratology (ortho-k) lens contacts the ocular surface, tear film components such as lipids and proteins rapidly adsorb onto the lens, which may increase friction and contribute to discomfort if not properly removed. Polysaccharides have been reported to reduce protein deposition and improve lubrication, prompting the investigation of alginate acid and lambda-carrageenan in modulating the tribological properties of ortho-k lenses. An in vitro tribological property analysis of ortho-k lenses and protein adsorption and desorption analyses were carried out to investigate the lubricating ability of alginate acid and carrageenan. Zeta potential and turbidity analyses were further conducted to examine potential interactions between polysaccharides and tear film proteins. Tear film proteins significantly increased the friction coefficient of the ortho-k lens, whereas the addition of alginate acid and carrageenan markedly reduced friction. Electrostatic interaction and polysaccharide–protein complex formation were identified as possible mechanisms underlying these effects. These results demonstrate that alginate acid and carrageenan can modify the tribological and interfacial behavior of ortho-k lenses in protein-rich environments, suggesting their potential application in reducing friction-related complications in ortho-k lens wearers. Full article

This study focused on the preparation of microcapsules that simulate adipose tissue cells via complex coacervation, followed by the formation of block-like fat analogue products through gelation. The results indicated that microcapsules obtained by encapsulating coconut oil with soy protein isolate (SPI) and sodium alginate (SA) through a complex coacervation process could serve as effective fat substitutes in meat products. When the mass ratio of SPI to SA was 3:1, the core-to-wall mass ratio was 1:1, and the total wall material concentration was 3% (w/v), the oil loading rate of the microcapsules reached 39.17%. The particle size of the oil-loaded microcapsules was mainly distributed between 40–180 μm, which was comparable to the size of fat cells in animal adipose tissue. Microcapsules (50%, w/w) were mixed with a 5% (w/v) curdlan dispersion and heated at 95 °C for 60 min to form fat analogues. The fat analogues demonstrated significantly reduced cooking loss, enhanced textural rigidity, and superior chew resistance, achieving performance metrics comparable to those of natural adipose tissue. This dual-phase strategy—combining interfacial engineering of lipid microcapsules with polysaccharide-mediated gelation—provides a promising approach for developing sustainable, plant-based fat alternatives in meat product reformulation. The methodology not only addresses texture and flavour challenges in fat replacement but also enables precise control over lipid content, supporting applications in healthier food systems. Full article

Two endogenous peptides, β-alanyl-L-histidine, named carnosine (Car), and glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK), derived from the matricellular protein Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine (SPARC), share many beneficial functions. The hydrolytic enzyme carnosinase for Car and the low stability for GHK can put into question their antioxidant, antiaggregating, and anti-inflammatory properties. The glycoconjugates of Car with a di- (trehalose, Tre) or polysaccharide (hyaluronan, HA) inhibit carnosinase, while the synthesis of HAGHK derivatives increases the tripeptide stability and protects/delays the biopolymer degradation. A synergic effect between the two components of the glycoconjugates is evident in their consequently preserved protective features. TreCar, HACar, and HAGHK maintain the copper-binding ability of the peptides alone, and the saccharides potentiate the Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase-like ability of the copper(II) complexes with the glycoconjugates. These peptide derivatives behave as copper ionophores, utilizing Cu²⁺ present in the culture medium; also, an increase in the metal intracellular level occurs with a consequent stimulation of the copper-driven signaling pathways that produce the expression/release of trophic (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, BDNF, and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2, BMP-2) and angiogenic (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, VEGF) proteins. Copper chaperons for SOD1, CCS, and Antioxidant 1 (Atox-1) are the copper chaperones that act as transcription factors. Full article

There has been little research on freezing-induced damage in high-moisture dairy products, specifically sour cream and yogurt. This work aimed to investigate, as a proof-of-concept, if antifreeze additives may prevent quality decrease in high-moisture dairy products due to freeze-induced damage. Whey protein isolate and soy protein isolate were complexed with locust bean gum and lambda carrageenan, in both unhydrolyzed and hydrolyzed forms, and their antifreeze activity was evaluated in a model system as well as in sour cream and yogurt. The biomolecules were also tested individually as controls to determine any synergistic effects. Protein and polysaccharide complexes were found to have ice recrystallization inhibition activity in the model systems by reducing the ice crystal size significantly (35–64%) compared to the negative control at both pH 4.5 and 7.0. However, the complexes failed to prevent freeze-induced damage in the dairy system and all treatments resulted in decreased firmness, cohesiveness, and consistency along with increased graininess, possibly due to the complex interacting with different food components that may have interfered with the antifreeze activity of the tested compounds. Full article

Tragacanth gum (GT) was mixed with whey protein concentrate (WPC80), whey protein isolate (WPI) or rice protein (RP) across pH 3.0–7.2 in order to clarify the effect of protein type and pH on controlling association and bulk behavior. Turbidimetry at 600 nm by photographic validation, oscillatory and steady-shear rheology, dynamic light scattering (DLS), FTIR spectroscopy, and AutoDock Vina docking were employed and compared. Whey systems reflected a clear, mildly acidic window: low-strain elasticity (G′) reached near pH ~5, with increased A600 and dominant sub-100 nm DLS modes, reflecting associative complexation near the isoelectric region. WPI also reflected a secondary turbidity/viscosity rise at pH 7.2, consistent with segregative aggregationafter the associative window. RP was variable, featuring broadly increased turbidity with viscosity/DLS maxima at pH 6.4, reflecting glutelin-facilitated solubility/aggregation rather than an acid optimum. FTIR changes in the amide band and GT bands (COO⁻ ~1400–1406 cm⁻¹; 1015–1040 cm⁻¹) supplemented enhanced coupling at pH 3–5. Superimposition through docking of multivalent hot-spots (Lys/Arg and H-bonding neighborhoods) corresponded to the phase-level readouts. Together, the data establish protein-dependent, pH-selective windows for GT–protein systems and uncover a mechanistic dichotomy: associative complexation in whey vs. neutral-side, solubility-regulated aggregation in RP. Full article

Background: Photoaging, induced by chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure, is a multifactorial skin disorder characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix degradation. Ganoderma lucidum glycoprotein (Gl-Gp) exhibits potent antioxidant activity, but its topical application is limited by poor transdermal permeability. This study aimed to develop a microemulsion-based system to enhance Gl-Gp delivery and evaluate its anti-photoaging efficacy. Methods: Gl-Gp was extracted and purified from G. lucidum fruiting bodies and structurally characterized for O-glycosidic linkages and O-GlcNAc modifications. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy further confirmed the polysaccharide–protein complex structure of Gl-Gp. A water-in-oil Gl-Gp microemulsion was prepared and assessed in vitro for antioxidant and cytoprotective effects in HaCaT cells, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction, mitochondrial membrane potential stabilization, and apoptosis inhibition. Transdermal penetration was compared with aqueous Gl-Gp. In vivo efficacy was evaluated in a UV-induced rat model by measuring skin morphology, histology, oxidative stress markers, matrix metalloproteinases, and proinflammatory cytokines. Results: The microemulsion enhanced Gl-Gp stability and transdermal delivery. In vitro, it reduced ROS, preserved mitochondrial function, and decreased apoptosis in HaCaT cells. In rats, topical application attenuated erythema and epidermal hyperplasia, promoted dermal restoration, increased SOD and GSH-Px activities, and decreased MDA, hydroxyproline, MMPs, and inflammatory mediators. Conclusions: The Gl-Gp microemulsion exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-collagen-degrading effects, representing a promising strategy for transdermal delivery and topical prevention of photoaging. 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

Despite promising results, biocomposite research still requires elaboration, particularly with regard to functional properties and applications. In this study, multilayer biocomposites based on gelatin, κ-carrageenan and carboxymethylcellulose were enriched with sage or blackberry extracts. The films were characterized based on their physicochemical traits and bioactivity for application as active packaging and environmental biodegradation. FTIR confirmed extract integration and strong matrix interactions, while UV-VIS analysis showed efficient UV blocking. Water properties remained acceptable (WVTR ≈ 550 g/m² × d); solubility decreased for BB (41.73% vs. 53.45% control). Mechanical testing indicated a plasticizing effect: elongation increased (20.00% control; 35.35% BB; 39.29% SAGE), while tensile strength and Young’s modulus decreased. Antioxidant capacity rose (FRAP: 0.38 control, 1.97 BB, 4.48 SAGE µTrolox/mg; DPPH: 6.38% control, 85.68% BB, 78.25% SAGE; MCA: none). During refrigerated storage, antimicrobial effects were most evident on days 6–9. Lipid oxidation peaked for BB (0.92 mg MDA/kg, day 9), while pH was more stable with SAGE. Biodegradation and phytotoxicity confirmed environmental safety and compostability, with increased humic acid carbon in vermicompost. Overall, the results confirm the relevance of modifying biopolymers using green chemistry and highlight their importance for quality management, food safety and sustainable circular economy strategies. Full article