Structural characterization and anti-inflammatory potential of sulfated polysaccharides from Scytosiphon lomentaria; attenuate inflammatory signaling pathways

Abstract

The brown seaweed, Scytosiphon lomentaria, is widely distributed worldwide but has received less research attention. Several studies have reported sulfated polysaccharides to be potential candidates for the development of nutraceuticals and functional foods. However, their anti-inflammatory properties and underlying mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. Our findings revealed that S. lomentaria fucoidan fraction 5 (SLCF5) has the potential to inhibit the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in macrophages. The structural characterization of SLCF5 was confirmed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. LPS stimulation induced Prostaglandin E2, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-related proteins, while SLCF5 treatment significantly downregulated their expression. In vivo results demonstrated that SLCF5 decreased heart rate, NO production, and cell death while increasing the survival percentage. Hence, this study will serve as a platform for future research while providing insight into the mediation of inflammatory disorders.