Structure elucidation and intestinal barrier protection of an α-D-glucan in Huangshui

WLY-0, as an alpha-D-glucan with a molecular weight (Mw) of 11.12 kDa, was successfully isolated and purified from Huangshui (HS). The results of methylation and NMR indicated that the mainchain of WLY-0 was (1 -> 4)-alpha-Dglucan, with side chains linking at O-6. Meanwhile, the surface morphology characterization showed that WLY0 had an irregular flake-like morphology with a rough and uneven surface and varies in sizes from nanometers to microns. Furthermore, WLY-0 relieved the increased paracellular permeability of FD4 and decreased TEER challenged by LPS, meanwhile inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1 beta) and up-regulated the expression of TJ protein (Occludin, Claudin-1, ZO-1, and JAM-A) in Caco-2 cells, so to improve the intestinal barrier function. Our findings about the structural characteristics and biological activities of WLY-0 provided a scientific foundation for the utilization of HS as a potent source of an effective adjuvant in intestinal barrier injury treatment.

Automated summary

This study successfully isolated and purified WLY-0 alpha-D-glucan with a molecular weight of 11.12 kDa from Huangshui. WLY-0 demonstrated an irregular flake-like morphology and showed potential in improving intestinal barrier function by regulating cell permeability, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and enhancing the expression of structural proteins.