Biological Effects of Polysaccharides from Bovistella utriformis as Cytotoxic, Antioxidant, and Antihyperglycemic Agents: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

Background/Objectives: This study explores the bioactive potential of Bovistella utriformis biomass and its polysaccharides (PsBu) through comprehensive biochemical and bioactivity analyses, focusing on their antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antihyperglycemic properties. Methods: Elemental analysis determined the biomass's chemical composition. Antioxidant activity was assessed using ABTS and DPPH assays. Monosaccharide composition was analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In vitro cytotoxicity assays were conducted on cancer and normal cell lines to determine IC₅₀ values and selectivity indices (SI). Zebrafish embryo toxicity was evaluated for teratogenic effects, and an in vivo antihyperglycemic study was performed in diabetic rat models. Results: The biomass exhibited high carbon content (around 41%) and nitrogen levels, with a balanced C/N ratio nearing 5. Protein content exceeded 50%, alongside significant carbohydrate, fiber, and ash levels. Antioxidant assays revealed inhibition rates of approximately 89% (ABTS) and 64% (DPPH). GC-MS analysis identified glucose as the predominant sugar (>80%), followed by galactose and mannose. Additionally, HPLC detected a photoprotective compound, potentially a mycosporin-like amino acid. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated PsBu's selective activity against colon, lung, and melanoma cancer cell lines (IC₅₀: 100-500 µg·mL^-1), while effects on normal cell lines were lower (IC₅₀ > 1300 µg·mL^-1 for HaCaT, >2500 µg·mL^-1 for HGF-1), with SI values approaching 27, supporting PsBu's potential as a targeted anticancer agent. Zebrafish embryo assays yielded LC₅₀ values ranging from 1.4 to 1.8 mg·mL^-1. In vivo, PsBu reduced fasting blood glucose levels in hyperglycemic rats (approximately 210 mg·dL^-1 vs. 230 mg·dL^-1 in controls) and preserved pancreatic β-cell integrity (around 80% vs. 65% in controls). Conclusions: These findings suggest that B. utriformis biomass and PsBu exhibit strong antioxidant activity, selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells, and antihyperglycemic potential, making them promising candidates for further biomedical applications.