Work

Structural characterization of oligosaccharides derived from Polygonatum odoratum and alleviating effects on Caco-2 cell inflammation and DSS-induced colitis in mice

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to characterize an oligosaccharide derived from the edible plant Polygonatum odoratum and to evaluate its effects on intestinal barrier integrity and inflammatory responses in colitis using in vitro and in vivo models. An oligosaccharide fraction, designated POs, was prepared by hydrolysis of polysaccharides isolated from Polygonatum odoratum , with an average molecular weight of 2.42 kDa. Functional assays revealed that POs modulated oxidative stress and exerted anti-inflammatory effects in Caco-2 cell models. In a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis model, POs (100 and 400 mg/kg/day) were administered. The findings indicated that POs significantly decreased disease activity index (DAI) scores and attenuated histopathological damage. POs also effectively suppressed inflammatory responses and contributed to the restoration of intestinal barrier function. Furthermore, POs treatment modulated the intestinal microenvironment by significantly increasing cecal and colonic short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels. Overall, these findings suggest that POs may serve as a promising candidate for food-based strategies to protect the intestinal barrier and alleviate inflammation-associated intestinal disorders.

Source: Journal of Functional Foods

DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2026.107262

Authors: Rujia Cui, Yuchen Wang, Hongyu Zhang, Liwei Niu, Hong Li, Zengli Wang

Institutions: China Agricultural University, The Ohio State University

Language: English

Topic: Microbial Metabolites in Food Biotechnology

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,800