In vitro simulated digestion of and microbial characteristics in colonic fermentation of polysaccharides from Lentinus edodes

Lentinus edodes is widely cultivated and utilized globally, and Lentinus edodes polysaccharides (LEPs) are recognized as its primary bioactive components. However, the influence of regional variations LEPs has not yet been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the differences in the and activity of LEPs from various sources following simulated in vitro digestion, as well as their impact on gut microbes. Our work demonstrated that while the three LEPs were partially digested during digestion progress, yet their structural integrity remained largely unchanged. These LEPs exhibited variations in the monosaccharide molar ratios and molecular weights (Mw), which contributed to differences in their biological activities. Furthermore, the three LEPs were found to promote the growth of Megasphaera and Bacteroides and enhance the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Finally, we investigated the correlations between monosaccharide composition, SCFAs, and the growth of gut microbes. Taken together, these results provide important insights into the regional characteristics of LEPs, supporting their personalized application in various contexts.