Structural Characterization of <i>Morchella esculenta</i> Polysaccharides and Its Ability to Modulate Intestinal Barrier and Intestinal Microbiota in Dextran Sulfate Sodium‐Induced Colitis Mice

ABSTRACT Morchella esculenta polysaccharides (MEPs) are known to have multiple bioactive properties, including immunomodulatory, anticancer, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, etc. In this study, we assessed the impact of MEPs on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis in mice, focusing on intestinal barrier and microbiota modulation. Using NMR analysis, MEPs were found to predominantly consist of 1,4,6‐ α ‐ d ‐Glc p and 1,4‐ α ‐ d ‐Glc p . MEPs were able to significantly alleviate weight loss, reduce colon length shortening, and mitigate colon pathology in mice. Notably, MEPs suppressed elevated pro‐inflammatory cytokines levels but boosted anti‐inflammatory cytokine levels. Besides, MEPs modulated gut microbiota, enhancing microbial diversity and promoting homeostasis compared to untreated. Furthermore, there was a higher relative abundance of beneficial bacteria, indicating that MEPs could enhance gut microbiota composition. Collectively, MEPs have promising therapeutic potential in preventing colitis, and therefore could be developed as a novel nutraceutical strategy.