Polysaccharides derived from Deglet Noor dates modulate amoxicillin-induced dysbiosis and enhance intestinal barrier function

Despite their well-known nutritional importance, the consumption of dates is linked to several health benefits. This study investigates the potential of Deglet Noor polysaccharides (DP) in reverting gut dysbiosis. The study aimed to characterize and explore the prebiotic properties of Deglet Noor date polysaccharides (DP) in alleviating antibiotic-induced diarrhea by enhancing intestinal integrity, increasing mucin production, and modulating gut microbiota. Male BALB/C 5-6-week-old mice were utilized, with amoxicillin administered for 14 days followed by treatment with DP for the subsequent 14 days. The alteration of intestinal flora due to antibiotics and the restorative effects of DP were explored using the "Illumina MiSeq platform". Amoxicillin administration for 14 days resulted in a significant reduction in the diversity and abundance of bacteria, altering the intestinal flora at various taxonomic levels. Antibiotic treatment led to an increase in pathogenic strains (Proteobacteria, Enterococcus, and Bacteroides), while supplementation with DP reversed the antibiotic-induced dysbiosis and increased the richness of beneficial bacteria such as Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136 and Ruminococcaceae within Firmicutes. As a main component of chemical barrier, Mucin-2 expression was depleted with antibiotic treatment, whereas DP demonstrated a healing effect by increasing mucin production. Additionally, DP exhibited an antiinflammatory response by suppressing the production of inflammatory cytokines including IL-6, IL-17, and TNF alpha, while also increasing the expression of tight junction proteins. These results offer important insights into how Deglet Noor polysaccharides can act as prebiotics and improve gut health. They highlight the importance of these polysaccharides in improving the gut barrier and reducing inflammation.