Chondroitin sulfate-functionalized selenium nanoparticle-induced S-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HeLa Cells.

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-cervical cancer activity of chondroitin sulfate-functionalized selenium nanoparticles (SeCS) and to elucidate their action mechanism. Cytotoxic effect of SeCS on HeLa cells was assessed by MTT assay. Further molecular mechanism of SeCS was analyzed by flow cytometric assay and western blotting. The results showed that treatment with SeCS resulted in a dose- and time-dependent inhibition in the proliferation of HeLa cells. The data obtained from flow cytometry demonstrated that SeCS inhibited HeLa cell growth via the induction of S-phase arrest and cell apoptosis. Further mechanism analysis found that SeCS down-regulated expression levels of cyclin A and CDK2 and up-regulated p21 expression, which contributed to S arrest. Moreover, SeCS increased the level of Bax and decreased the expression of Bcl-2, resulting in the release of cytochrome C from mitochondria and activating caspase-3/8/9 for caspase-dependent apoptosis. Meanwhile, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were elevated after SeCS treatment, suggesting that ROS might be upstream of SeCS-induced S-phase arrest and cell apoptosis. These data show that SeCS has anti-tumor effects and possesses the potential to become a new therapeutic agent or adjuvant therapy for cancer patients. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: In our previous study, we used chondroitin sulfate to stabilize nano-selenium to obtain SeCS to improve the bioactivity and stability of nano-selenium. We found that it possessed an inhibitory effect on HeLa cells. However, the molecular mechanism remains unclear. This study elucidated the mechanism of SeCS damage to HeLa cells. SeCS has the potential to become a new therapeutic agent or adjuvant therapy for cancer patients.

Recent progress in Porphyra haitanensis polysaccharides: Extraction, purification, structural insights, and their impact on gastrointestinal health and oxidative stress management.

Porphyra haitanensis, a red seaweed species, represents a bountiful and sustainable marine resource. P. haitanensis polysaccharide (PHP), has garnered considerable attention for its numerous health benefits. However, the comprehensive utilization of PHP on an industrial scale has been limited by the lack of comprehensive information. In this review, we endeavor to discuss and summarize recent advancements in PHP extraction, purification, and characterization. We emphasize the multifaceted mechanisms through which PHP promotes gastrointestinal health. Furthermore, we present a summary of compelling evidence supporting PHP's protective role against oxidative stress. This includes its demonstrated potent antioxidant properties, its ability to neutralize free radicals, and its capacity to enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes. The information presented here also lays the theoretical groundwork for future research into the structural and functional aspects of PHP, as well as its potential applications in functional foods.

Exploring potential polysaccharide utilization loci involved in the degradation of typical marine seaweed polysaccharides by Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron.

Introduction: Research on the mechanism of marine polysaccharide utilization by Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron has drawn substantial attention in recent years. Derived from marine algae, the marine algae polysaccharides could serve as prebiotics to facilitate intestinal microecological balance and alleviate colonic diseases. Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, considered the most efficient degrader of polysaccharides, relates to its capacity to degrade an extensive spectrum of complex polysaccharides. Polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs), a specialized organization of a collection of genes-encoded enzymes engaged in the breakdown and utilization of polysaccharides, make it possible for Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron to metabolize various polysaccharides. However, there is still a paucity of comprehensive studies on the procedure of polysaccharide degradation by Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. Methods: In the current study, the degradation of four kinds of marine algae polysaccharides, including sodium alginate, fucoidan, laminarin, and Pyropia haitanensis polysaccharides, and the underlying mechanism by Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron G4 were investigated. Pure culture of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron G4 in a substrate supplemented with these polysaccharides were performed. The change of OD600, total carbohydrate contents, and molecular weight during this fermentation were determined. Genomic sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were further performed to elucidate the mechanisms involved. Specifically, Gene Ontology (GO) annotation, Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG) annotation, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment were utilized to identify potential target genes and pathways. Results: Underlying target genes and pathways were recognized by employing bioinformatic analysis. Several PULs were found that are anticipated to participate in the breakdown of these four polysaccharides. These findings may help to understand the interactions between these marine seaweed polysaccharides and gut microorganisms. Discussion: The elucidation of polysaccharide degradation mechanisms by Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron provides valuable insights into the utilization of marine polysaccharides as prebiotics and their potential impact on gut health. Further studies are warranted to explore the specific roles of individual PULs and their contributions to polysaccharide metabolism in the gut microbiota.

Selenium nanoparticles stabilized by Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides: Synthesis, characterization and bioactivity.

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are a potential tumor therapeutic drug and have attracted widespread attention due to their high bioavailability and significant anticancer activity. However, the poor water solubility and degradability of selenium nanoparticles severely limit their application. In this study, spherical selenium nanoparticles with a particle size of approximately 50 nm were prepared by using Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharide (SFPS) as a modifier and Tween-80 as a stabilizer. The results of in vitro experiments showed that Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharide-Tween-80-Selenium nanoparticles (SFPS-Tw-SeNPs) had a significant inhibitory effect on A549 cells, with an IC50 value of 6.14 µg/mL, and showed antitumor cell migration and invasion ability against A549 cells in scratch assays and cell migration and invasion assays (transwell assays). Western blot experiments showed that SFPS-Tw-SeNPs could inhibit the expression of tumor migration- and invasion-related proteins. These results suggest that SFPS-Tw-SeNPs may be potential tumor therapeutic agents, especially for the treatment of human lung cancer.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of porphyran extracted from Porphyra haitanensis in the attenuation of DSS-induced intestinal inflammation.

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, spontaneous inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon. This study aimed to explore how Porphyra haitanensis porphyran (PHP) modulates the immune response and the associated mechanisms that alleviate dextran sulphate sodium-induced colitis in mice. Histological assessments via H&E staining and AB-PAS staining revealed that PHP intervention partially restored the number of goblet cells and improved intestinal mucosal function. Immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses of claudin-1, occludin, and MUC-2 demonstrated that PHP could repair the intestinal barrier and reduce colon damage by upregulating the expression of these proteins. PHP intervention was associated with a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokine expression. Moreover, the expression of proteins involved in intestinal immune homing, such as CCR-9, CCL-25, MAdCAM-1, and α4ß7, was significantly suppressed in response to PHP treatment. Conversely, PHP upregulates the expression of CD40 and TGF-ß1, both of these can promote healing and reduce inflammation in the gut lining. This study demonstrates that PHP can ameliorate ulcerative colitis by enhancing the intestinal barrier and modulating immune responses. These findings offer valuable insights into the potential utility of P. haitanensis as a promising natural product for managing ulcerative colitis.

Sulfate glycosaminoglycan from swim bladder exerts immunomodulatory potential on macrophages via toll-like receptor 4 mediated NF-κB signaling pathways.

This study explored the immunomodulatory impact and potential mechanisms on macrophages RAW264.7 using a purified macromolecular sulfate glycosaminoglycan (SBSG) from the swim bladder, whose structure was similar to chondroitin sulfate A. The results showed that SBSG at 0.25-1 mg/mL increased the viability and phagocytosis of RAW264.7 cells. Meanwhile, SBSG promoted the secretion of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and nitric oxide (NO), as well as the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). According to the RT-PCR and Western blot data, SBSG activated TLR4-nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways, which decreased the relative mRNA and protein levels of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), IκB kinase ß (IKKß), NF-κB p65, and p-NF-κB p65. The molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation findings revealed that the main binding force between TLR4 and SBSG was conventional hydrogen bond interaction, resulting in more stable ligand receptor complexes. In summary, SBSG exhibits significant immunomodulatory potential, similar to chondroitin sulfate C. The underlying molecular mechanism involved the binding of SBSG through hydrogen bonding to TLR4 receptors, triggering the NF-κB signaling pathway to downregulate the expression of related genes and proteins. This, in turn, regulated the secretion of various cytokines that were mediated by macrophages to exert the immunity of the body.

Preparation of κ-carrageenan oligosaccharides by photocatalytic degradation: Structural characterization and antioxidant activity.

To accurately, efficiently, and environmentally prepare carrageenan oligosaccharides, we have developed a method that uses H2O2 and TiO2 as catalysts for the photodegradation of κ-carrageenan (KC). The photodegradation of KC was monitored using various amounts of TiO2 and H2O2 and different concentrations of KC via HPLC and it could decrease the average molecular weight of KC into 1.6 kDa within 2 h. Further research under optimal conditions. As a control, the effects of UV, UV/H2O2, UV/TiO2, and H2O2/TiO2 treatments were studied. In contrast, UV/H2O2/TiO2 treatments showed a coordinated effect. The effect of degradation on the structure of KC was investigated by FT-IR, XRD, and there was no obvious remotion of sulfate groups. Furthermore, oral administration of KCO prolonged the healthy lifespan of nematodes induced by ultraviolet stress and significantly regulated oxidative stress. This study suggests that the precise preparation and application of KCO may be beneficial.

Polysaccharides as Protective Agents against Heavy Metal Toxicity.

Polysaccharides are functional foods or drugs that can be used to alleviate heavy metal poisoning by cadmium, lead, mercury, and arsenic. Industries generate substantial quantities of toxic heavy metal wastes, such as wastewater discharges, paints, electronic waste, batteries, pigments, and plastics, into the environment that pose a risk to human health. Therefore, it is imperative to eliminate accumulated heavy metal ions from the body and the environment. Heavy metal toxicity can lead to decreased energy levels and impair the functioning of vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, kidneys, liver, and blood. Prolonged exposure can result in progressive physical, muscular, and neurological degeneration that resembles conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and muscular dystrophy. Polysaccharides operate through mechanisms such as chelation, antioxidant defense, immunomodulation, and tissue repair. Polysaccharides involved in heavy metal removal include methionine and cysteine, together with N-acetylcysteine, an acetylated form of cysteine, S-adenosylmethionine, a metabolite of methionine, α-lipoic acid, and the tripeptide glutathione (GSH). These compounds effectively bind with harmful heavy metals to create a stable complex and defend biological targets from metal ions, thus decreasing their harmful effects and causing them to be excreted from the body. This review also highlights the importance of polysaccharides' ability to mitigate oxidative stress, enhance immune responses, and support tissue repair processes. Polysaccharides are ubiquitous in nature and take part in diverse processes, making them potential natural therapies for heavy metal-related diseases. This review discusses the effectiveness of natural polysaccharides and the mechanisms that allow them to bind with heavy metals to alleviate their effects from the body and the environment. Polysaccharides have inherent features that enable them to function as pharmacological agents and regulate the immune response.

Protein quality of commercially important edible bivalves.

Bivalves are a high-quality source of animal protein for human consumption. In recent years, the demand for bivalve proteins has increased dramatically, leading to a sharp increase in global production of marine bivalves. To date, although the amino acid profiles of many bivalves have been reported, such information has not been well organized. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive scientific review of the protein quality of bivalves, especially commercially important edible bivalves. In this context, this study was conducted to evaluate the protein quality of commercially important edible bivalves. In general, most bivalves are rich in protein (> 50% of their dry weight) and amino acids (> 30 g/100g protein). Although most species of bivalves are rich in essential amino acids (EAA) (up to 50 g/100g protein), some species of edible bivalves have very low levels of EAA (< 5 g/100g protein). Based on the AA score, almost all bivalves have at least two limiting AAs. Most bivalve proteins provides delicious flavors with unami, sweetness and a hint of bitterness. The findings of this study not only serve as a a guide for selecting appropriate bivalves based on consumer preferences for specific AAs or AA scores, but also provide information on potential bivalve species for aquaculture to produce higher protein quality to meet the growing demand for high quality animal protein.

Effects of food processing on the lipid nutritional quality of commercially important fish and shellfish.

Fish and shellfish are important sources of high quality lipids, especially omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. In most countries, seafood is eaten cooked to eliminate any potential parasites and pathogens. In addition, cold storage plays an important role in extending the shelf life of seafood. However, both cooking and storage processes can cause alterations in the lipid content and fatty acid profile of fish and shellfish. Although the lipid nutritional quality of fish and shellfish have recently been reviewed, these reviews mainly focus on raw seafood, and information on the impact of food processing on the lipid nutritional quality of fish and shellfish still lacks coherence. Therefore, this study was carried out to provides a critical reviews on the effects of food processing, especially cooking and cold storge, on the lipid nutritional quality of fish and shellfish. Overall, from the perspective of lipid nutritional quality, baking and steaming are the most recommended cooking methods for fish and shellfish, respectively, while it is strongly not recommended to fry seafood with margarine. For cold storage, 3 days and 2 weeks are the most recommended storage periods for refrigeration and frozen storage, respectively. This article can provides consumers with useful information to choose food preparation and storage methods based on their personal interest in specific lipid nutritional quality indicators.

Effects of culinary treatments on the lipid nutritional quality of fish and shellfish.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Seafood, especially fish and shellfish, is a healthy food that reduces the risk of CHD. In many regions, seafood is consumed cooked to eliminate potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Although there have been many reports of culinary preparations causing changes in the fatty acid profile of fish and shellfish, this information has not been well organized, and most of it is not associated to CHD. Therefore, this study was conducted to study the effect of culinary treatments of seafood on lipid nutritional quality in relation to promotion/prevention of CHD. In this study, fatty acid profiles of fish and shellfish prepared with different culinary preparations were obtained from published literature. Lipid nutritional quality indices related to promoting/preventing CHD were calculated and analyzed to reveal the effects of culinary treatment on the lipid nutritional quality of fish and shellfish in promoting/preventing of CHD. The information in this article is very useful and can fill the knowledge gap of the effects of culinary preparation on the lipid nutritional quality of fish and shellfish. Such information is very useful for guiding consumers to choose better ways to cook fish and shellfish to reduce the risk of CHD.

Intervention effects of sulfate glycosaminoglycan from swim bladder against arsenic-induced damage in IEC-6 cells.

In this study, a purified macromolecular sulfate glycosaminoglycan whose structural characterization is similar to chondroitin sulfate from the swim bladder of Aristichthys nobilis, named SBSG, was used to explore the intervention effects on arsenic-induced intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6) damage. Arsenic exposure led to cell membrane rupture, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative damage, and down-regulation of tight junction proteins expression. Treatment with SBSG could alleviate arsenic exposure-induced cell damage by decreasing the extracellular lactate dehydrogenase activity and influencing mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species level, malondialdehyde content, and anti-oxidative enzyme activity. On the other hand, SBSG could promote nitric oxide production to achieve potential immunoregulation. The Western blot showed that intervention of SBSG mainly could restrain the activation of the JNK signaling pathway and up-regulate the expression of ZO-1 against arsenic-induced cell damage. This study provides a new perspective for understanding the heavy metal detoxification of SBSG on the intestinal and indicates that SBSG could be used as natural antioxidant resistant to heavy metal toxicity.

Post-COVID-19 syndrome management: Utilizing the potential of dietary polysaccharides.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant global impact, resulting in long-term health effects for many individuals. As more patients recover, there is a growing need to identify effective management strategies for ongoing health concerns, such as post-COVID-19 syndrome, characterized by persistent symptoms or complications beyond several weeks or months from the onset of symptoms. In this review, we explore the potential of dietary polysaccharides as a promising approach to managing post-COVID-19 syndrome. We summarize the immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and prebiotic activities of dietary polysaccharides for the management of post-COVID-19 syndrome. Furthermore, the review investigates the role of polysaccharides in enhancing immune response, regulating immune function, improving oxidative stress, inhibiting virus binding to ACE2, balancing gut microbiota, and increasing functional metabolites. These properties of dietary polysaccharides may help alleviate COVID-19 symptoms, providing a promising avenue for effective treatment strategies.

Role of Polysaccharides from Marine Seaweed as Feed Additives for Methane Mitigation in Ruminants: A Critical Review.

Given the increasing concerns regarding greenhouse gas emissions associated with livestock production, the need to discover effective strategies to mitigate methane production in ruminants is clear. Marine algal polysaccharides have emerged as a promising research avenue because of their abundance and sustainability. Polysaccharides, such as alginate, laminaran, and fucoidan, which are extracted from marine seaweeds, have demonstrated the potential to reduce methane emissions by influencing the microbial populations in the rumen. This comprehensive review extensively examines the available literature and considers the effectiveness, challenges, and prospects of using marine seaweed polysaccharides as feed additives. The findings emphasise that marine algal polysaccharides can modulate rumen fermentation, promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms, and inhibit methanogenic archaea, ultimately leading to decreases in methane emissions. However, we must understand the long-term effects and address the obstacles to practical implementation. Further research is warranted to optimise dosage levels, evaluate potential effects on animal health, and assess economic feasibility. This critical review provides insights for researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders dedicated to advancing sustainable livestock production and methane mitigation.

The impact of climate change on Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in bivalves.

Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) have many health benefits to human. Increasing evidence have shown that climate change reduces the availability of plankton n-3 LC-PUFA to primary consumers which potentially reduces the availability of n-3 LC-PUFA to human. Since marine bivalves are an important source of n-3 LC-PUFA for human beings, and bivalve aquaculture completely depends on phytoplankton in ambient water as food, it is important to understand the impact of climate change on the lipid nutritional quality of bivalves. In this study, fatty acid profile of different bivalves (mussels, oysters, clams, scallops and cockles) from different regions (tropical, subtropical and temperate) and time (before 1990, 1991-1995, 1996-2000, 2001-2005, 2006-2010, 2011-2015, 2016-2020) were extracted from published literature to calculate various lipid nutritional quality indicators. The results of this study revealed that the effects of global warming and declines in aragonite saturation state on the lipid content and lipid indices of bivalves are highly dependent on the geographical region and bivalves. In general, global warming has the largest negative impact on the lipid content and indices of temperate bivalves, including decreasing the PUFA/SFA, EPA + DHA and n-3/n-6. However, global warming has a much smaller negative impact on lipid content and lipid indices in other regions. The declines of aragonite saturation state in seawater promotes the accumulation of lipid content in tropical and subtropical bivalves, but it compromised the PUFA/SFA, EPA + DHA and n-3/n-6 of bivalves in all regions. The findings of this study not only fill the knowledge gap of the impact of climate change on the lipid nutritional quality of bivalves, but also provide guidance for the establishment of bivalve aquaculture and fisheries management plans to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Marine algal polysaccharides as future potential constituents against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is one of the most chronic and incurable liver diseases triggered mainly by an inappropriate diet and hereditary factors which burden liver metabolic stress, and may result in liver fibrosis or even cancer. While the available drugs show adverse side effects. The non-toxic bioactive molecules derived from natural resources, particularly marine algal polysaccharides (MAPs), present significant potential for treating NASH. In this review, we summarized the protective effects of MAPs on NASH from multiple perspectives, including reducing oxidative stress, regulating lipid metabolism, enhancing immune function, preventing fibrosis, and providing cell protection. Furthermore, the mechanisms of MAPs in treating NASH were comprehensively described. Additionally, we highlight the influences of the special structures of MAPs on their bioactive differences. Through this comprehensive review, we aim to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms of MAPs in NASH and inspire insights for deeper research on the functional food and clinical applications of MAPs.

Bioactivity of polysaccharides derived from bivalves.

Bivalves have high diversity, widely distributed in various aquatic environments, including saltwater, brackish water and freshwater. Bivalves are known to rich in polysaccharides and have wide applications in functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and industrial research. Despite many relevant reports are available, the information is poorly organized. Therefore, in this study, we conducted a comprehensive scientific review on the potential bioactivity of polysaccharides derived from bivalves. In general, the polysaccharides derived from bivalves possess various bioactive properties, including anticancer, antioxidant, anticoagulant and immunomodulatory activities. The bioactivity of these biomolecules highly depends on the bivalve species, extraction methods, purification methods, dosages, etc. The information in this study can provide an overview of the bioactivities of bivalve polysaccharides. This is very useful to be used as a guide for identifying the health benefits of polysaccharides derived from different bivalve species.

Oligosaccharides as Potential Regulators of Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Health in Post-COVID-19 Management.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact worldwide, resulting in long-term health effects for many individuals. Recently, as more and more people recover from COVID-19, there is an increasing need to identify effective management strategies for post-COVID-19 syndrome, which may include diarrhea, fatigue, and chronic inflammation. Oligosaccharides derived from natural resources have been shown to have prebiotic effects, and emerging evidence suggests that they may also have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which could be particularly relevant in mitigating the long-term effects of COVID-19. In this review, we explore the potential of oligosaccharides as regulators of gut microbiota and intestinal health in post-COVID-19 management. We discuss the complex interactions between the gut microbiota, their functional metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, and the immune system, highlighting the potential of oligosaccharides to improve gut health and manage post-COVID-19 syndrome. Furthermore, we review evidence of gut microbiota with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 expression for alleviating post-COVID-19 syndrome. Therefore, oligosaccharides offer a safe, natural, and effective approach to potentially improving gut microbiota, intestinal health, and overall health outcomes in post-COVID-19 management.

Partially Acid-Hydrolyzed Porphyran Improved Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Acute Colitis by Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Enhancing the Mucosal Barrier.

The pharmacological values of marine algal polysaccharides on gut health are being recognized in recent research. However, the protective effect of degraded polysaccharides from Porphyra haitanensis (PHP-D) on the colonic mucosal barrier damaged in ulcerative colitis is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate how PHP-D could maintain the integrity of colonic mucosal layer mediated by microbiota in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. Structural analysis revealed that PHP-D had a typical porphyran structure having a backbone of alternating (1 → 3)-linked ß-d-galactopyranose units linked to either (1 → 4)-3,6-anhydro-α-l-galactopyranose units or (1 → 4)-linked α-l-galactose-6-sulfate units. An in vivo study demonstrated that PHP-D treatment reduced the severity of DSS-induced ulcerative colitis. 16S rRNA phylogenetic sequencing revealed that PHP-D affected the diversity of gut microbiota with an increase of Bacteroides, Muribaculum, and Lactobacillus species. Similarly, PHP-D increased levels of short-chain fatty acids. Furthermore, PHP-D restored mucus thickness and improved the expression of tight junction proteins. This work demonstrates that PHP-D is capable of enhancing a colonic mucosal barrier. These outcomes offer unique perspectives on the potential application of P. haitanensis as a promising natural product for the management of ulcerative colitis.

Porphyran from Porphyra haitanensis Enhances Intestinal Barrier Function and Regulates Gut Microbiota Composition.

In this study, the effects of a homogenous porphyran from Porphyra haitanensis (PHP) on the intestinal barrier and gut microbiota were investigated. The results showed that oral administration of PHP resulted in a higher luminal moisture content and a lower pH environment for the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon of mice. PHP significantly increased the production of total short-chain fatty acids during the fermentation process. PHP made the intestinal epithelial cells of mice arrange more tidily and tightly with a significant increase in mucosal thickness. PHP also increased the amount of mucin-producing goblet cells and the expression of mucin in the colon, which maintained the structure and function of the intestinal mucosal barrier. Moreover, PHP up-regulated the expression of tight junctions including ZO-1 and occludin, improving the intestinal physical barrier function. The results of 16S rRNA sequencing showed that PHP regulated the composition of gut microbiota in mice, increasing the richness and diversity of gut microbiota and the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. This study revealed that the intake of PHP is beneficial for the gastrointestinal tract and PHP could be a potential source of prebiotics in the functional food and pharmaceutical industries.