Effects and Mechanisms of <i>Pleurotus eryngii</i> Polysaccharide on Intestinal Barrier Damage: Based on the Perspective of Its Interaction with Intestinal Mucus during Gut Digestion

In this study, pathways and mechanisms of action of a new type of <i>Pleurotus eryngii</i> polysaccharide (PEP) with known structural characteristics and probiotic properties in the intestine were investigated. An <i>in vitro</i> cell model was used to investigate the protective effects of complexes formed between PEPs and their related products with mucin against gut barrier damage. Dextran sulfate sodium salt-induced colitis was used to determine the characteristics of the interaction between PEPs and intestinal mucus (IMs) at different consumption times. Finally, the protective effect of PEPs against intestinal barrier damage was investigated, as mediated by IMs. The result showed that complexes of PEP-related products and mucin improved damage to the intestinal barrier. PEPs exhibited differential functional activities at different stages. In normal and colitis mice, the interactions between IMs and PEPs showed different characteristics. From the transport and absorption standpoint, the role of PEPs in driving intestinal health was also clarified in this study.