The Potential Role of Plant Polysaccharides in Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Yilizilan Dilixiati,
Adila Aipire,
Ming Song,
Dilaram Nijat,
Abudukahaer Wubuli,
Qi Cao,
Jinyao Li
Affiliations
Yilizilan Dilixiati
Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Adila Aipire
Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Ming Song
Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Dilaram Nijat
Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Abudukahaer Wubuli
Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Qi Cao
Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Jinyao Li
Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Ulcerative colitis (UC) results in inflammation and ulceration of the colon and the rectum’s inner lining. The application of herbal therapy in UC is increasing worldwide. As natural macromolecular compounds, polysaccharides have a significant role in the treatment of UC due to advantages of better biodegradation, good biocompatibility, immunomodulatory activity, and low reactogenicity. Therefore, polysaccharide drug formulation is becoming a potential candidate for UC treatment. In this review, we summarize the etiology and pathogenesis of UC and the therapeutic effects of polysaccharides on UC, such as regulating the expression of cytokines and tight junction proteins and modulating the balance of immune cells and intestinal microbiota. Polysaccharides can also serve as drug delivery carriers to enhance drug targeting and reduce side effects. This review provides a theoretical basis for applying natural plant polysaccharides in the prevention and treatment of UC.
