Current advances in the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of natural polysaccharides

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, multifactorial and inflammatory disease occurring in the colon tract. Bioactive polysaccharides from natural resources have attracted extensive attention due to their safety, accessibility and good bioactivities. In recent years, a variety of natural bioactive polysaccharides have been proven to possess anti-inflammatory effects on treating acute colitis. The objective of this review was to give an up-to-date review on the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of natural polysaccharides on acute colitis. The anti-inflammatory effects of natural polysaccharides on acute colitis concerning clinical symptoms amelioration, colon tissue repairment, anti-oxidative stress alleviation, anti-inflammation, immune regulation, and gut microbiota modulation were comprehensively summarized. In addition, inducible murine models for assessing the anti-inflammatory effects of natural polysaccharides on acute colitis were also concluded. This review will offer the comprehensive understanding of anti-inflammatory mechanisms of natural polysaccharides in acute colitis, and render theoretical basis for the development and application of natural polysaccharides in drug and functional food.

Automated summary

This review provides an up-to-date overview of the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of natural polysaccharides on acute colitis. The study found that natural polysaccharides can improve clinical symptoms, repair colon tissue, alleviate oxidative stress, inhibit inflammation, regulate immune function, and modulate gut microbiota. In addition, inducible murine models for assessing the anti-inflammatory effects were also discussed.