Comprehensive structural analysis of complex carbohydrates: exemplified by edible mushrooms polysaccharides

Background

Edible mushrooms are favored by people for their rich nutrition value and unique flavor. Specific structural polysaccharides in some edible mushrooms have great potential in immunomodulation, antitumor and hypoglycemia activities. The biological activity of polysaccharide from edible mushrooms (EMP) are closely related to their chemical structures. However, due to their wide variety, large molecular mass, small difference in monosaccharide composition and the diversity and disorder of sugar chain, the analysis of their fine structural characteristics and the clarification of the structure-activity relationship face great challenges. The study of cell wall structure rich in polysaccharides is also crucial for understanding the biology of edible mushrooms. The unclear spatial distribution patterns and uncertain synthesis pathways of cell wall polysaccharides would limit the targeted extraction and efficient preparation of bioactive polysaccharides.

Scope and approach

This paper thoroughly reviews a comprehensive research system of EMP. In addition to traditional chemical structure analysis, imaging techniques, in situ analysis, solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, and synthetic biology techniques have been flexibly combined to provide a solid theoretical foundation for the efficient extraction of polysaccharides. This will provide scientific reference for the application of EMP in the field of food and biomedicine.

Key findings and conclusions

Emerging technologies such as in situ analysis, solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) and synthetic biology could overcome the limitations of traditional identification methods in resolving complex polysaccharide structures. The combination of in situ analysis and ssNMR enable multidimensional analysis (composition, spatial distribution and structural characterization) of EMP cell wall. Synthetic biology drives polysaccharide assembly and elucidates polysaccharide structure-function regulatory mechanisms. They support the precise extraction of polysaccharides from edible mushrooms with enhanced bioactivity, with broad prospects in food development and healthcare.