Frontiers in Physiology (Jul 2021)

Beneficial Effects of Polysaccharides on the Epithelial Barrier Function in Intestinal Mucositis

  • Karien Sauruk da Silva,
  • Karien Sauruk da Silva,
  • Bruna Carla da Silveira,
  • Bruna Carla da Silveira,
  • Laryssa Regis Bueno,
  • Laryssa Regis Bueno,
  • Liziane Cristine Malaquias da Silva,
  • Liziane Cristine Malaquias da Silva,
  • Lauany da Silva Fonseca,
  • Lauany da Silva Fonseca,
  • Elizabeth Soares Fernandes,
  • Elizabeth Soares Fernandes,
  • Daniele Maria-Ferreira,
  • Daniele Maria-Ferreira

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2021.714846
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12

Abstract

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Intestinal mucositis is a clinically relevant side effect of anticancer therapies. It is experienced by 60–100% of patients undergoing treatment with high doses of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplantation. Intestinal mucositis can manifest as pain, weight loss, inflammation, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and infection; affecting normal nutritional intake and intestinal function. It often impacts adherence to anticancer therapy as it frequently limits patient’s ability to tolerate treatment, causing schedule delays, interruptions, or premature discontinuation. In some cases, local and systemic secondary infections are observed, increasing the costs toward medical care and hospitalization. Several strategies for managing mucositis are available which do not always halt this condition. In this context, new therapeutic strategies are under investigation to prevent or treat intestinal mucositis. Polysaccharides from natural resources have recently become promising molecules against intestinal damage due to their ability to promote mucosal healing and their anti-inflammatory actions. These effects are associated with the protection of intestinal mucosa and regulation of microbiota and immune system. This review aims to discuss the recent advances of polysaccharides from natural resources as potential therapies for intestinal mucositis. The source, species, doses, treatment schedules, and mechanisms of action of polysaccharides will be discussed in detail.

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