Recent advances in polysaccharides for osteoarthritis therapy

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Polymer Science
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease.
• Current OA treatments have limitations.
• Polysaccharides show promise for OA management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in polysaccharides for OA treatment.
• To summarize the chemistry of these polysaccharides.
• To discuss their biological activities in OA.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific databases.
• Analysis of chemical structures and properties.
• Evaluation of biological activities and mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Identified key polysaccharides: sodium hyaluronate, chondroitin sulfate, chitosan, xanthan gum, low molecular weight heparin, and alginate.
• Detailed their chemical characteristics relevant to OA.
• Summarized their diverse biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective effects.

Conclusions:

• Polysaccharides offer a promising therapeutic avenue for osteoarthritis.
• Further research into their chemistry and biological activities can optimize OA treatment strategies.