Affiliation:
1. Food Security Research Laboratory, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition Universiti Malaysia Sabah Kota Kinabalu Malaysia
2. School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
3. Key Laboratory of Natural Products and Functional Food Development in Handan City School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
4. Key Laboratory of Comprehensive Utilization of Plant Resources in Hebei Province Chenguang Biotech Group Co., Ltd Handan China
5. Chenguang Biotech Group Co., Ltd Handan China
Abstract
AbstractBACKGROUNDGarlic polysaccharides (GPs) constitute over 75% of the dry weight of garlic. They are characterized by fructan with a 2,1‐β‐d‐Fruf backbone and 2,6‐β‐d‐Fruf branches. Studies have suggested a role for GPs in regulating gut microbiota but whether they possess a comprehensive function in maintaining intestinal well‐being and can serve as effective prebiotics remains unknown. To explore this, varied doses of GPs (1.25–5.0 g kg−1 body weight) and inulin (as a positive control) were administered to Kunming mice via gavage, and their effects on the intestinal epithelial, chemical, and biological barriers were assessed. A constipation model was also established using loperamide to investigate the potential effects of GPs on the relief of constipation.RESULTSAdministration of GPs significantly upregulated expression of tight‐junction proteins and mucins in Kunming mouse small‐intestine tissue. Garlic polysaccharides elevated cecal butyric acid content, reduced the abundance of Desulfobacterota, and decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (the F/B ratio). Garlic polysaccharides also promoted the growth of Bacteroides acidifaciens and Clostridium saccharogumia. Tax4Fun functional predictions suggested the potential of GPs to prevent human diseases, reducing the risk of insulin resistance, infectious diseases, and drug resistance. Garlic polysaccharides also exhibited a beneficial effect in alleviating loperamide‐induced constipation symptoms by enhancing small intestinal transit, softening stool consistency, accelerating bowel movements, and promoting the release of excitatory neurotransmitters.CONCLUSIONSThese findings highlight the important role of GPs in maintaining gut fitness by enhancing intestinal barrier function and peristalsis. Garlic polysaccharides are promising prebiotics, potentially contributing to overall intestinal well‐being and health. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.