Structural characterization of oligosaccharides derived from Polygonatum odoratum and alleviating effects on Caco-2 cell inflammation and DSS-induced colitis in mice

This study aimed to characterize an oligosaccharide derived from the edible plant Polygonatum odoratum and to evaluate its effects on intestinal barrier integrity and inflammatory responses in colitis using in vitro and in vivo models. An oligosaccharide fraction, designated POs, was prepared by hydrolysis of polysaccharides isolated from Polygonatum odoratum , with an average molecular weight of 2.42 kDa. Functional assays revealed that POs modulated oxidative stress and exerted anti-inflammatory effects in Caco-2 cell models. In a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis model, POs (100 and 400 mg/kg/day) were administered. The findings indicated that POs significantly decreased disease activity index (DAI) scores and attenuated histopathological damage. POs also effectively suppressed inflammatory responses and contributed to the restoration of intestinal barrier function. Furthermore, POs treatment modulated the intestinal microenvironment by significantly increasing cecal and colonic short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels. Overall, these findings suggest that POs may serve as a promising candidate for food-based strategies to protect the intestinal barrier and alleviate inflammation-associated intestinal disorders. • Oligosaccharides from Polygonatum odoratum (POs) were purified and structurally characterized. • POs reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in TNF-α-stimulated Caco-2 cells. • POs could interrupt inflammation-barrier vicious cycle through combined anti-inflammatory and barrier-protective actions. • POs could serve as a dietary agent for the prevention or treatment of UC.