rheum tanguticum polysaccharide-1

Rheum tanguticum polysaccharide-1 (RTP-1) is a water-soluble polysaccharide (molecular weight 600–800 kDa) extracted from the root of *Rheum tanguticum* Maxim. ex Regel, a species of rhubarb used in traditional Chinese medicine. Developed primarily by researchers at the Fourth Military Medical University (Tangdu Hospital), RTP-1 is being investigated for its potential therapeutic effects in inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, and radiation-induced intestinal injuries. The compound acts as an immunomodulator and anti-inflammatory agent; it has been shown to suppress the expansion and protein expression of CD4+ T lymphocytes and interact with the macrophage mannose receptor. Additionally, RTP-1 exhibits anti-oxidative properties by reducing myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels and enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, while also inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathways. Preclinical studies in animal models suggest that RTP-1 provides protective effects against mucosal damage without the systemic immunosuppressive side effects typically associated with corticosteroids.

Other names

Rheum tanguticum polysaccharide 1