Alginate oligosaccharides: The structure-function relationships and the directional preparation for application.

Area of Science:

• Marine biotechnology
• Carbohydrate chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) are derived from alginate, a polysaccharide from brown algae.
• AOS possess beneficial properties including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitumor activities, alongside growth promotion.
• Three distinct AOS types exist: mannuronate oligosaccharides (MAOS), guluronate oligosaccharides (GAOS), and heterozygous mannuronate and guluronate oligosaccharides (HAOS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on AOS structure-function relationships.
• To summarize advances in the production of AOS.
• To identify challenges and opportunities for practical AOS applications.

Main Methods:

• Enzymatic hydrolysis of alginate to produce AOS.
• Analysis of AOS structures and their correlation with biological activities.
• Literature review of existing studies on AOS production and applications.

Main Results:

• Most research has focused on HAOS, with limited understanding of MAOS and GAOS.
• AOS exhibit diverse biological activities, influenced by their structural composition.
• Advances in enzymatic hydrolysis enable more controlled production of specific AOS types.

Conclusions:

• Systematic studies on AOS structure-function relationships are crucial for targeted production.
• Further research is needed to fully exploit the potential of MAOS and GAOS.
• Precise application of AOS requires addressing current challenges and leveraging opportunities in their production and use.