Carbohydrate Polymers[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Mixing-sequence-governed dispersion and processability of electrode slurries with carboxymethyl cellulose and cellulose nanofibrils.
Choi HJ, Kim S, Lee HJ … +3 more , Ahn KH, Oh K, Park JD
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285661 · Publisher ↗
We demonstrate that concurrent use of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) enhances the dispersion and processability of electrode slurries, and elucidate the underlying mechanisms via detailed...
We demonstrate that concurrent use of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) enhances the dispersion and processability of electrode slurries, and elucidate the underlying mechanisms via detailed rheological and microstructural analyses. Sedimentation tests and optical microscopy revealed that slurries containing both dispersants exhibited more uniform dispersion and greater stability than those prepared from CMC or CNFs alone. Dynamic rheological analyses, based on the sequence of physical processes (SPP) framework applied to large-amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS), demonstrated that combined use of CMC and CNFs effectively suppressed shear-induced aggregation and the resultant stiffening, thereby improving coating processability. Notably, this synergistic effect exhibited a pronounced dependence on the mixing sequence: pre-mixing of CMC with graphite afforded more effective dispersion and stabilization than when CNFs were first mixed with graphite. Based on this sequential dependence and rheological analyses of the dispersant mixture, the improvements in dispersion and stability are attributed to the synergistic effects of steric and electrostatic repulsion from CMC adsorbed onto graphite surfaces, and the stabilization afforded by the CNF-rich matrix. The combined formulation also ensured robust coating and drying performance, minimizing edge defects and enabling homogeneous distribution of the styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) binder, thereby preventing binder migration.
Polyethylene glycol-maleimide amphiphilic carboxymethyl-hexanoyl chitosan enables cadherin-11-targeted hyaluronan synthase 2 delivery and hyaluronan biosynthesis in osteoarthritis.
Chen YJ, Tsai JH, Hu JL … +4 more , Wu CH, Yang SW, Chen SY, Chang SJ
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285660 · Publisher ↗
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration and chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane. A critical hallmark of OA is the depletion of high-molecular-we...
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration and chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane. A critical hallmark of OA is the depletion of high-molecular-weight hyaluronan (HA), which impairs lubrication and perpetuates a catabolic microenvironment. To restore endogenous HA biosynthesis, we engineered a cadherin-11 (CDH11)-targeted, pH-responsive nanocarrier (CMN-CDH11) based on amphiphilic carboxymethyl-hexanoyl chitosan-poly(ethylene glycol)-maleimide for the intracellular delivery of hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2). These nanocarriers (∼350 nm) leveraged a pH-triggered charge-reversal mechanism, transitioning from -10.88 mV at pH 7.0 to a positive potential of +34.40 mV at pH 4.5. Confocal imaging confirmed that this strategy facilitated endosomal escape, enabling cytosolic delivery of enzymatically active HAS2 for subsequent HA biosynthesis. In vitro results in fibroblast-like synoviocytes demonstrated that CDH11-mediated targeting enhanced cellular association by 2.5-fold, leading to a significant upregulation of HAS2 expression and secretion of bioactive HA with a weight-average molecular weight of 2.05 MDa. In a rabbit ACLT model with three animals per group, HAS2@CMN-CDH11 treatment promoted superior matrix regeneration and sulfated glycosaminoglycan deposition compared with conventional HA injections. We further demonstrated that the HAS2@CMN-CDH11 platform transitioned OA therapy from exogenous HA supplementation to cell-mediated HA production within a 6-week observation period, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic strategy for osteoarthritis.
An asymmetric bacterial cellulose/collagen membrane constructed via biological suturing and in situ pore formation for abdominal wall hernia repair.
Ding Y, Yu J, Li J … +3 more , Cheng K, Zhang M, Ding C
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285659 · Publisher ↗
Abdominal wall repair remains challenging as conventional hernia meshes frequently fail to simultaneously provide robust mechanical support, effective anti-adhesion, and rapid tissue regeneration. To address these limita...
Abdominal wall repair remains challenging as conventional hernia meshes frequently fail to simultaneously provide robust mechanical support, effective anti-adhesion, and rapid tissue regeneration. To address these limitations, an asymmetric bacterial cellulose/collagen (BC/COL) membrane is developed via "biological suturing" and "in situ pore formation" strategies. By spraying collagen Pickering emulsion onto the growing BC network during Komagataeibacter xylinus fermentation, a BC-interwoven collagen layer is produced. Subsequent fermentation without further emulsion addition produces an upper layer consisting solely of BC. This in situ fermentation process integrates the collagen and "sutures" the two layers, which we aptly term "biological suturing". Upon final freeze-drying, it yields a robust bilayer structure consisting of a porous layer (BC/COL-COL) and a dense layer (BC/COL-BC). This asymmetric design enables spatial functionalization: BC/COL-BC provides robust mechanical support and effective anti-adhesion, while BC/COL-COL facilitates cell infiltration and tissue regeneration. The scaffold exhibits high tensile strength (27.4 MPa) and good biocompatibility. In vitro tests confirm high cell attachment on the BC/COL-COL side and minimal adhesion on the BC/COL-BC side, demonstrating distinct bifunctional roles. In vivo experiments indicate that the BC/COL scaffold promotes tissue regeneration more effectively than polypropylene (PP) meshes. This composite presents a promising candidate for advanced clinical hernia repair.
Designing soy protein amyloid fibrils-high methoxyl pectin composite gel as a potential dysphagia food: Focus on interaction exploration and delivery properties.
Feng J, Yang B, Han X … +4 more , Tong X, Yu D, Wang H, Jiang L
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285658 · Publisher ↗
In this study, a composite gel system oriented by dysphagia diet was constructed by soy protein amyloid fibrils (SAF) crosslinking high methoxyl pectin (HMP). The interaction mode, structure and properties of composite g...
In this study, a composite gel system oriented by dysphagia diet was constructed by soy protein amyloid fibrils (SAF) crosslinking high methoxyl pectin (HMP). The interaction mode, structure and properties of composite gels at different pH values and composite ratios were investigated. Results showed that HMP enhanced the gel properties of SAF through non-covalent interaction and steric hindrance of its own polysaccharide chain. Among them, the network pores of the pH 7.0 group gel were smaller, and the structure was more uniform than those of pH 2.0 group gel. Moreover, the composite gel changed from protein-based to polysaccharide-based as the volume ratio of SAF and HMP decreased, and the size of the intermolecular interaction force and the three-dimensional network structure changed. In particular, pH 7.0-SAF-HMP-1:1 had the optimal water holding capacity (91.37 ± 2.14%), rheology, textural properties, and lubricating performance. pH 7.0-SAF-HMP-1:1 was classified as Level 5 according to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative and can be considered as potential transition foods. Furthermore, when the curcumin was 3 mg/mL, it had the highest embedding rate (83.62 ± 1.27%), bioaccessibility (74.87 ± 0.82%), and stability. These studies provided a theoretical basis for the ideal gels for dysphagia and functional foods.
Oxidative deboronation of boronic acids by hydrogen peroxide in planta generates borate for cross-linking of rhamnogalacturonan II.
Sharma D, Thorne K, Bharadwaj VS … +3 more , Matthes MS, O'Neill M, Urbanowicz B
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285657 · Publisher ↗
Vascular plants require boron to cross-link the rhamnogalacturonan-II (RG-II) domain of pectin to form functional cell walls. Boronic acids, which form reversible esters with cis-diols like borate, have been proposed to...
Vascular plants require boron to cross-link the rhamnogalacturonan-II (RG-II) domain of pectin to form functional cell walls. Boronic acids, which form reversible esters with cis-diols like borate, have been proposed to influence RG-II cross-linking, though the mechanism remains unclear. We used suspension-cultured rose cells adapted to grow without boron to investigate the effect of boronic acids on RG-II dimerization. When grown with phenylboronic acid (PBA) as the sole boron source, nearly all RG-II was crosslinked, whereas methylboronic acid (MBA) only partially restored cross-linking. In contrast, in vitro assays showed that homogeneous RG-II monomers did not dimerize with alkyl or aryl boronic acids unless supplemented with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), which oxidatively converts boronic acids to boric acid. Real-time NMR spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations provided insight into the reaction mechanism and energetics of oxidation respectively. Together, our data show that exogenous boronic acids are a source of boric acid for plants, and that the deboronation reaction generates aryl or alkyl alcohol byproducts that can undergo further chemical modification in planta. The fate and potential roles of these byproducts in planta remain to be determined.
Preparation of water-soluble sodium polyglucuronates from water-insoluble glucans by NaBr-free TEMPO-catalyzed oxidation with sodium dichloroisocyanurate in water.
Chitbanyong K, Arnandan PT, Hou R … +2 more , Shibata I, Isogai A
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285656 · Publisher ↗
NaBr-free TEMPO-catalyzed oxidation with sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) used as the consumed co-oxidant in water and room temperature was applied to water-insoluble polyglucans, such as a commercial regenerated cell...
NaBr-free TEMPO-catalyzed oxidation with sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) used as the consumed co-oxidant in water and room temperature was applied to water-insoluble polyglucans, such as a commercial regenerated cellulose (Bemliese), curdlan, α-(1 → 3)-glucan, corn starch, and 20% NaOH-treated/never-dried ramie. Water-soluble oxidized products with degrees of oxidation (DO) of >0.8 were obtained from Bemliese, curdlan, α-(1 → 3)-glucan, and corn starch by the TEMPO/NaDCC system at pH 9. The mass-average degrees of polymerization (DP) of the oxidized products were higher than those prepared by the conventional TEMPO/NaBr/NaClO system at pH 10. In the case of 20% NaOH-treated and never-dried ramie, DOs were only ~0.6 and water-soluble oxidized products could not be obtained quantitatively. Consequently, the TEMPO/NaDCC system in water at pH 9 is advantageous for preparation of water-soluble oxidized products with higher DP values from water-insoluble glucans, such as Bemliese, curdlan, α-(1 → 3)-glucan, and corn starch, by suppression of depolymerization probably because of no NaBrO present in the system. The water-soluble oxidized products or sodium polyglucuronates are possible to be used as biodegradable and metabolizable polymeric builders in laundry detergents.
In situ NMR investigation of the native chemical ligation (NCL) of N-terminal cysteines to alginate.
Bučak Gasser D, Steindorfer T, Neshchadin D … +3 more , Gescheidt G, Stana Kleinschek K, Kargl R
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285655 · Publisher ↗
Polysaccharide-peptide conjugates constitute an important class of biomaterials for tissue engineering scaffolds and glycoconjugate vaccines. Yet, benign and chemoselective synthetic strategies that operate under aqueous...
Polysaccharide-peptide conjugates constitute an important class of biomaterials for tissue engineering scaffolds and glycoconjugate vaccines. Yet, benign and chemoselective synthetic strategies that operate under aqueous, physiologically relevant conditions remain scarce. Herein, we present a proof-of-concept approach for the traceless conjugation of N-terminal l-cysteines to alginate. A glycine-derived thioester functionality was synthesized and covalently introduced onto the uronic acid residues of alginate (DS = 0.47), as confirmed by H and C NMR and ATR-IR spectroscopy. The resulting alginate-thioester derivative served as a hydrolytically stable and chemoselective reactive handle for the native chemical ligation (NCL) of l-cysteine hydrochloride (l-cys·HCl) and the dipeptide l-cysteinylglycine (l-cys-gly). The ligation reactions were monitored in situ by kinetic H NMR spectroscopy. Control experiments of the alginate-thioester derivative with alternative biological nucleophiles glycine and l-lysine showed no reactivity (H NMR), thus confirming the selectivity toward the thiol functionality of N-terminal l-cysteines under the provided conditions (0.1 M PO buffer, pH 7, 25 °C). This work establishes a convenient aqueous method to prepare peptide-polysaccharide conjugates in which the peptide is linked to the polysaccharide exclusively through stable amide bonds, without the incorporation of exogenous linker molecules or the use of conventional coupling agents or protecting groups.
Sustainable functionalization of natural polysaccharides via multicomponent reactions: Designs, properties, and applications.
Peng F, Qi H
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285654 · Publisher ↗
The sustainable functionalization of natural polysaccharides is essential for expanding their advanced applications. Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) have emerged as efficient and environmentally friendly strategies for p...
The sustainable functionalization of natural polysaccharides is essential for expanding their advanced applications. Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) have emerged as efficient and environmentally friendly strategies for polysaccharide modification, offering high atom economy, modular functional-group installation, and operational simplicity. Although often considered green, the sustainability of MCR-based modification depends on the specific reaction system, including solvent choice, reagent hazards, and the targeted degree of substitution. In polysaccharide chemistry, MCRs can be conducted under homogeneous conditions with soluble derivatives or under heterogeneous conditions with insoluble substrates. These reactions enable the incorporation of diverse functional motifs, resulting in materials with tailored luminescence, UV shielding, antimicrobial and antiviral activity, amphiphilicity, hydrophobicity, enhanced water absorption, metal ion adsorption, and stimuli-responsiveness. This review summarizes recent advancements in the functionalization of natural polysaccharides through representative MCRs. The discussion focuses on reaction design principles, properties, and potential applications. Current challenges and future opportunities for polysaccharide functionalization via MCRs are also highlighted. We aim to offer insights for the development of advanced polysaccharide-based materials and to inspire innovative strategies for high-value utilization of natural polysaccharides.
Nature's blueprint: Exopolysaccharides linking microbiome dynamics to advanced bone tissue engineering.
Manikandan C, Devi V K A, Manivasagam G … +5 more , Pereira A, Mano JF, Borges J, Jaiswal AK, Udduttula A
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285653 · Publisher ↗
Emerging evidence increasingly suggests a strong correlation linking the human gut microbiome and bone health, particularly in its ability to modulate bone metabolism and the genesis of bone disorders. It is essential to...
Emerging evidence increasingly suggests a strong correlation linking the human gut microbiome and bone health, particularly in its ability to modulate bone metabolism and the genesis of bone disorders. It is essential to properly understand the mechanisms of the human microbiome to prevent and treat such bone complications. While several therapeutic and analytical techniques have been explored in the past, tissue engineering has recently gained prominence as a strategy that can take advantage of the microbiome's potential. Within this context, microbial exopolysaccharides represent a promising yet largely overlooked source of functional and structural polysaccharides. These natural polymers have significant potential offering meaningful advancements in creating effective materials for bone repair and regeneration. Their potential roles span from enhancing scaffold architecture and mechanical integrity to modulating immune response and promoting osteogenic activity. This review investigates the dynamic interplay between microbiome and bone health through exopolysaccharide-driven tissue engineering. The use of both gut-derived and non-gut microbial EPS in bone tissue engineering has been emphasized. Further EPS driven strategies and their potential for treating bone dysbiosis and contributing to the development of cell-free scaffolds for bone disorders like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis have been discussed.
A triple-network hydrogel synergistically constructed via hydrophobic interactions, hemicellulose-mediated Diels-Alder bonds, and Fe coordination for flexible sensors and TENGs.
Zhao L, Wang S, Zhang H … +4 more , Wang S, Liu H, Xu X, Yan B
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285652 · Publisher ↗
Polyacrylamide (PAM) -based conductive hydrogels show immense promise for flexible wearable sensors and triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). However, integrating superior mechanical properties, strong adhesion, high con...
Polyacrylamide (PAM) -based conductive hydrogels show immense promise for flexible wearable sensors and triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). However, integrating superior mechanical properties, strong adhesion, high conductivity, and fatigue resistance within a single system remains a formidable challenge. Herein, a triple-network hydrogel is synergistically constructed via hydrophobic interactions, Diels-Alder dynamic covalent bonds, and Fe coordination. The hydrogel exhibits comprehensive performance: fracture stress of 1.42 MPa, strain of 718%, toughness of 4.94 MJ/m, Young's modulus of 180.3 kPa, adhesion strength of 23.85 kPa to porcine skin, conductivity of 4.39 S/cm, and high sensitivity (gauge factor = 4.87, pressure sensitivity = 0.92 kPa). Benefiting from its rapid and stable signal response characteristics, this hydrogel holds significant potential for applications in human motion and subtle physiological signal monitoring. Moreover, the fabricated TENGs exhibit excellent energy harvesting capability. This work reports the design of multifunctional hydrogels featuring balanced mechanical, adhesive, and conductive properties to advance the development of flexible electronics and self-powered devices.
Pullulan-based biomaterials: Bridging structural chemistry and modification strategies with clinical translation.
Rathi N, Bhotiya L, Mittal K … +2 more , Rajinikanth PS, Pandey P
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285651 · Publisher ↗
Pullulan, a linear microbial α-glucan composed of maltotriose units linked by alternating α-(1 → 4) and α-(1 → 6) glycosidic bonds, has evolved from a food-grade excipient into a versatile platform for nanomedicine and r...
Pullulan, a linear microbial α-glucan composed of maltotriose units linked by alternating α-(1 → 4) and α-(1 → 6) glycosidic bonds, has evolved from a food-grade excipient into a versatile platform for nanomedicine and regenerative biomaterials. This review synthesizes the structure-activity relationships (SAR) of pullulan and its derivatives, linking molecular design with macroscopic material performance and clinical potential across diverse biomedical applications. The presence of three hydroxyl groups per glucose unit (nine per maltotriose) enables diverse and site-specific chemical modifications, transforming an otherwise biologically inert backbone into highly functional and tunable biomaterials. Key strategies include cholesteryl grafting for self-assembling nanogels in cancer immunotherapy, periodate oxidation and methacrylation for dynamically crosslinked and 3D-printable hydrogels, and regioselective sulfation for heparin-mimetic anticoagulants. We also examine pullulan's intrinsic hepatotropism via the asialoglycoprotein receptor, enabling liver-targeted drug and gene delivery. Despite progress, including early-phase clinical evaluation of nanogel-based vaccines, broader pharmaceutical translation remains limited. Major challenges include poor mechanical strength of native networks (typically exhibiting a storage modulus (G') < 1 kPa), rapid enzymatic degradation, batch variability in molecular weight, and the lack of parenteral-grade regulatory standards. This review outlines future directions in precision modification, stimuli-responsive design, and standardization for clinical advancement and scalable biomedical applications.
Structural characterization of a pectic polysaccharide from Bombax ceiba L. flowers and its neuroprotective effects via the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
Zhang Z, Zhang B, Yu W … +9 more , Jia Q, Zhu R, Li M, Li J, Wang Y, Yu L, Song Z, Gu N, Ji C
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285650 · Publisher ↗
A novel pectic polysaccharide, designated BCP-3, was isolated and purified from the flowers of kapok (Bombax ceiba L.), with an average molecular weight of 86.9 kDa. Structural analysis revealed that BCP-3 is an acidic h...
A novel pectic polysaccharide, designated BCP-3, was isolated and purified from the flowers of kapok (Bombax ceiba L.), with an average molecular weight of 86.9 kDa. Structural analysis revealed that BCP-3 is an acidic heteropolysaccharide mainly composed of GalpA, Galp, Araf, Rhap, and Glcp, and its backbone mainly consists of alternating →4)-α-D-GalpA-(1 → and →2)-α-L-Rhap-(1 → units, with the O-4 position of rhamnose residues serving as the primary branching site. Oral administration of BCP-3 significantly improved spontaneous locomotor activity and motor coordination in rotenone-treated mice. 16S rRNA sequencing showed that BCP-3 increased the abundance of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria, including members of the Lachnospiraceae family and Roseburia. Further analyses indicated that BCP-3 promoted SCFA production, enhanced intestinal barrier integrity, and alleviated the intestinal inflammatory microenvironment. Meanwhile, BCP-3 upregulated the intestinal FFAR3/TPH1 signaling pathway and modulated central 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) signaling. In the substantia nigra, BCP-3 attenuated oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, possibly through activation of the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 signaling pathway, ultimately contributing to the improvement of motor dysfunction. These findings suggest that BCP-3 may serve as a promising natural polysaccharide for neuroprotection through modulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
Multifunctional oxidized arabinogalactan/N-methylacrylamide chitosan-based elastic gel designed by dual crosslinking for sensing and energy harvesting applications.
Zhang H, Liu Z, Li R … +3 more , Wu T, Cao Y, Fang G
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285649 · Publisher ↗
Conductive elastic gels have emerged as promising candidates for portable smart wearable electronics, flexible sensors, and triboelectric nanogenerators. However, the polysaccharide-based elastic gels usually encounter c...
Conductive elastic gels have emerged as promising candidates for portable smart wearable electronics, flexible sensors, and triboelectric nanogenerators. However, the polysaccharide-based elastic gels usually encounter challenges in terms of mechanics and stability. In this study, we established a homogeneous reaction system and utilized the Schiff base reaction between N-methylacrylamide chitosan (N-MAC) and oxidized arabinogalactan (OAG), as well as the copolymerization reaction of N-MAC with hydroxyethyl acrylate monomer, to develop a dual network (DN) elastic gel with excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength of 2.4 MPa, elongation at break of 310%, and toughness of 2.3 MJ/m), stability, and conductivity. Experimental results demonstrated that the elastic gel exhibited excellent sensing performance and could accurately detect various deformation modes. Notably, the material showed considerable promise in energy harvesting applications. When employed as a triboelectric layer in a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) with an area of 2 × 2 cm, it generated an open-circuit voltage of up to 160 V, successfully lighting 26 LEDs. These findings fully validate the potential of the developed polysaccharide-based elastic gel as a high-performance material for wearable electronic devices, intelligent sensing systems, and sustainable energy conversion, providing novel solutions to meet practical application demands.
Corrigendum to "In-situ forming carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogel containing Paeonia suffruticosa Andr. leaf extract for mixed infectious vaginitis treatment by reshaping the micro-biota" [Carbohydrate Polymers 339 (2024) 122255].
Jia S, Huang S, Jimo R … +10 more , AXi Y, Lu Y, Kong Z, Ma J, Li H, Luo X, Qu Y, Gou K, Zeng R, Wang X
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Sep · PMID 42285648 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Enzymatic synthesis of oligodextran with prebiotic potential by a recombinant dextransucrase from Latilactobacillus sakei L3.
Wang B, Hao L, Zuo K … +6 more , Liu X, Yao H, Liu W, Zhao F, Pan L, Wu B
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Aug · PMID 42230050 · Publisher ↗
Oligodextran exhibits considerable prebiotic potential and holds significant commercial promise for food and clinical applications. To facilitate its efficient production, the dextransucrase (Dex) gene from Latilactobaci...
Oligodextran exhibits considerable prebiotic potential and holds significant commercial promise for food and clinical applications. To facilitate its efficient production, the dextransucrase (Dex) gene from Latilactobacillus sakei L3 was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). The recombinant enzyme demonstrated optimal activity at pH 5.0 and 30 °C, with its activity enhanced in the presence of Ca or Mn and inhibited by Cd, EDTA, and surfactants. Using 500 mM sucrose as the substrate, the Dex produced a polysaccharide (designated L3 OEPS) with a molecular weight of 5882 Da. Monosaccharide composition analysis confirmed L3 OEPS was composed exclusively of glucose. Structural characterization revealed a backbone predominantly consisting of α-1,6-glycosidic linkages with minor α-1,3-glycosidic branching. In vitro simulated digestion models showed that L3 OEPS resisted degradation by salivary, gastric, and small intestinal fluids. Conversely, during in vitro fecal fermentation, L3 OEPS was partially utilized by gut microbiota, leading to increased levels of acetic and propionic acids, particularly after 24 h. Furthermore, L3 OEPS modulated the gut microbial community structure, enhancing the abundance of beneficial genera such as Megamonas and Bifidobacterium to an extent comparable to inulin. These findings suggest that L3 OEPS holds promise as a novel prebiotic for improving gut health.
Fundamental characterization, blood interaction mechanism and cell culture scaffold potential of wood-derived cellulose sponge with directional channels and anisotropic surfaces.
Zhang W, Su J, Zhai W … +7 more , Ding K, Ji T, Ren Z, Chen S, Cai L, Kong X, Xu M
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Aug · PMID 42230049 · Publisher ↗
In this paper, natural wood was used as a renewable feedstock, wood-derived cellulose sponges were fabricated by selectively removing cell wall non-structural components and neutral TEMPO-mediated oxidation. Their physic...
In this paper, natural wood was used as a renewable feedstock, wood-derived cellulose sponges were fabricated by selectively removing cell wall non-structural components and neutral TEMPO-mediated oxidation. Their physicochemical properties were characterized, interactions with blood were investigated for the first time, and potential as cell culture scaffolds was evaluated. This synergistic modification of structure and surface chemistry endows the material with rapid liquid absorption and effective capture of blood cells and coagulation factor recruitment. Activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and thrombin time assays showed these times were shortened by 45.00%, 39.38% and 65.35%, demonstrating the cellulose sponge potently activates both the intrinsic/extrinsic coagulation cascades and the common pathway. The interaction between the sponges and blood was evaluated using CaCl-reactivated anticoagulated rabbit blood. The sponges effectively accelerated blood coagulation, shortening the clotting time by up to approximately 40.01% relative to the control. Notably, the sponges were further verified to induce coagulation even in non-reactivated anticoagulated blood. Finally, biocompatibility evaluation and co-culture experiments with L929 cells confirmed their excellent biocompatibility. Moreover, it can serve as a cell culture scaffold to provide a favorable spatial microenvironment for cell adhesion, spreading and proliferation. This sponge holds great promise for advanced biomaterial applications.
An integrated green strategy for enhanced aqueous solubility and loading of curcumin: Pressurized hot water meets cyclodextrin complexation.
Khajenoori M, Peimanfard S, Gazmeh M … +1 more , Asl AH
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Aug · PMID 42230048 · Publisher ↗
This study introduces an integrated, green solubilization strategy by combining pressurized hot water (PHW) treatment with β-cyclodextrin (βCD) complexation to enhance the aqueous solubility and formulation performance o...
This study introduces an integrated, green solubilization strategy by combining pressurized hot water (PHW) treatment with β-cyclodextrin (βCD) complexation to enhance the aqueous solubility and formulation performance of curcumin (Cur). Cur was subjected to three solubilization protocols: PHW processing, βCD complexation, and a novel two-step PHW-Cur/βCD method. Comparative evaluation revealed that the PHW-Cur/βCD complex achieved the highest solubility (0.163 mg.mL), representing a ~7.4-fold increase in loading capacity and >95% encapsulation efficiency, outperforming both individual techniques. Physicochemical characterization (DLS, TGA, DSC, XRD, FESEM, FTIR, and H NMR) confirmed the formation of inclusion complexes, with particle size (~196 nm), low polydispersity index, and enhanced thermal stability. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations provided atomistic insight into the interaction mechanisms and suggested stronger host-guest interaction and favorable diffusion behavior under PHW conditions. Radial distribution function analyses showed possible enhanced hydration shells and increased hydrogen bonding in the PHW Cur/βCD system. These findings suggest the potential of this environmentally friendly dual modality strategy for enhancing both the aqueous solubility and loading performance of poorly water soluble compounds, with prospective applications in pharmaceutical delivery systems and functional food formulations.
Precisely controlling full-color nanofilms for multi-level spatial-time-evolved via phosphorescence decay.
Liu H, Dai H, Chang G … +3 more , Wang L, Zhu H, He H
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Aug · PMID 42230047 · Publisher ↗
Sustainable rigid matrices and ultra-long lifetime organic room-temperature phosphorescent (ORTP) materials with precisely controlling phosphorescent properties establishes an innovative paradigm for achieving ideal vari...
Sustainable rigid matrices and ultra-long lifetime organic room-temperature phosphorescent (ORTP) materials with precisely controlling phosphorescent properties establishes an innovative paradigm for achieving ideal variable afterglow, facilitating multi-level spatial-time-evolved in information encryption. Herein, we have constructed a full-color nanofilm with multi-level spatial-time evolution from a donor of rigid-structure enhanced ORTP material and a molecular acceptor bridged by cellulose nanocrystal (CNC). CNC induced the polymerization of melamine, isophthalic acid and its isomers, creating a denser hydrogen bond environment, which effectively enhanced spin-orbit coupling, inhibited non-radiative transitions, and extended the phosphorescence lifetime to 2.03 s, while increasing the absolute quantum yield to 29.54%. Remarkably, this phosphorescent property, such as intensity, lifetime and color, could be finely controlled by modifying the rhodamine B acceptor dopant in the förster-resonance energy transfer system. Utilizing precisely controlling the ORTP characteristics and the response performance to ofloxacin, a multi-level information encryption including attacker misdirection, multi-layer encryption matrices, and spatial-time-evolved cryptographic systems is successfully developed. This work provides a new direction for enhancing phosphorescence lifetime and precisely controlling phosphorescent properties, stimulating innovations the applications of ORTP materials in high-level anti-counterfeiting and secure information encryption.
Water interactions, barrier properties, and biodegradation of cellulose acetate butyrate and cellulose acetate propionate films.
Berget AH, Kontturi KS, Rodríguez-Fabià S … +4 more , Dalheim MØ, Durairaj V, Tammelin-Peltonen T, Syverud K
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Aug · PMID 42230046 · Publisher ↗
Biobased food packaging barrier materials have not yet achieved broad adoption because they often fail to meet key requirements such as water vapor resistance, flexibility, and cost. Petroleum based plastics therefore re...
Biobased food packaging barrier materials have not yet achieved broad adoption because they often fail to meet key requirements such as water vapor resistance, flexibility, and cost. Petroleum based plastics therefore remain dominant despite their environmental impact, driving the search for renewable and biodegradable alternatives. Cellulose esters have emerged as promising candidates, yet links between ester composition, molecular water interactions, and macroscopic barrier performance remain limited. Films of six commercially available cellulose acetate butyrates (CABs) and one cellulose acetate propionate (CAP) were investigated regarding water interactions, barrier performance, biodegradability, and thermal behavior. Composition dependent differences in hydration were observed, with CAP showing higher humidity and liquid water uptake than CAB. In contrast, macroscopic barrier properties, including water vapor permeability and water absorption, were weakly influenced by ester composition and instead governed by film morphology and processing history. Thermal analysis indicated that calorimetric features observed during first heating reflect the hydrated state of the films rather than crystalline melting. Biodegradation experiments showed limited but measurable soil degradation dependent on substitution chemistry. Overall, substitution chemistry controls molecular water interactions, while morphology and processing dominate macroscopic barrier performance, supporting cellulose esters as candidates for next generation food packaging.
Thermally driven self-assembly of triterpenoid-fructan supramolecular particles contributes significantly to the efficacy of Zexie Tang against MASH.
Chen S, Xu Y, Liu D … +10 more , Xie L, Zhou C, Wu B, Zhu L, Fu G, Gao S, Liu W, Sun C, Qin L, Wu J
Carbohydr Polym · 2026 Aug · PMID 42230045 · Publisher ↗
The aqueous decoction, the principal method for preparing Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas (TCMF), is presumed to exert therapeutic effects through the synergy of its constituents. However, the fundamental physicoch...
The aqueous decoction, the principal method for preparing Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas (TCMF), is presumed to exert therapeutic effects through the synergy of its constituents. However, the fundamental physicochemical transformations occurring during decoction, which may be crucial for efficacy, are poorly understood. In particular, whether and how endogenous polysaccharides participate in forming pharmacologically active supramolecular assemblies is largely unexplored. This study investigated the classic TCMF Zexie Tang and revealed that thermal decoction drives the self-assembly of an inulin-type fructan from Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma and triterpenoids (alisol A, alisol B, 23-acetyl-alisol B) from Alismatis Rhizoma into stable, functional supramolecular particles, designated as heated microparticles (HMPs, ∼1 μm). These HMPs markedly enhanced the oral bioavailability of the triterpenoids. Consequently, in a murine model of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), HMPs exerted a potent effect in alleviating liver injury, steatosis, and dyslipidemia. In vitro reassembly experiments and molecular dynamics simulations indicate that hydrophobic and hydrogen-bonding interactions are key drivers of particle formation. This study demonstrates that endogenous polysaccharides actively participate in supramolecular complexes of Zexie Tang, and that heat-induced fructan-triterpenoid assemblies serve as an important pharmacologically active component that substantially contributes to the therapeutic effects, establishing a materials-based link between traditional decoction and efficacy.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe