The influence of polysaccharides from Ophiopogon japonicus on 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxy-stilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside about biopharmaceutical properties in vitro and pharmacokinetics in vivo

2,3,5,4'-Tetrahydroxy-stilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside (THSG) is a bioactive polyhydroxystilbene compound obtained from Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. Although it has broad therapeutic potential, the application of THSG is limited due to its poor stability in vitro, poor absorption in the intestine, and short-term storage in tissues. Polysaccharides from herbal medicines have been proven to be functional foods and potential natural plant derived drugs. However, the effects of polysaccharides when co-administered with other active ingredients are currently unknown. The present study investigated the influences of Ophiopogon japonicus polysaccharides (OJPs) on THSG. Results showed that OJPs notably enhanced aqueous solubility, and stability of THSG, but slightly decreased the permeability of THSG. In addition, Tmax, Cmax, and AUC(0-tn) of THSG were 3.5 fold, 1.45 fold and 2.32 fold higher for THSG-OJP. Thus, OJPs could potentially be used to improve the biopharmaceutical properties and prolong the pharmacological effects of THSG. This finding could provide a reference point for further applications of polysaccharides from herbal medicines.