Structural features and anticancer mechanisms of pectic polysaccharides: A review

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Immunology

Background:

• Pectic polysaccharides (PPs) exhibit proven anticancer activity, with bioactivity linked to complex structures.
• Understanding the structure-function relationship is crucial for PPs' therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically clarify the anticancer mechanisms and structural features of pectic polysaccharides.
• To analyze the direct and indirect roles of PPs in cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of structure characteristics and enzymatic processes of reported PPs.
• Systematic clarification of anticancer mechanisms and related structural features.

Main Results:

• PPs exert anticancer effects via direct mechanisms like proliferation inhibition and apoptosis.
• Indirect mechanisms include immune system regulation, gut microbiota modulation, and metabolic changes.
• Complex structure-function relationships, in vivo digestion, and comprehensive action mechanisms require further elucidation.

Conclusions:

• PPs demonstrate multifaceted anticancer properties, acting both directly on cancer cells and indirectly via systemic effects.
• Further investigation into PPs' structure-function dynamics and in vivo behavior is essential.
• PPs hold significant promise for development as anticancer therapeutics or functional foods.