Polyphenol-conjugated polysaccharide nanoplatforms for enhanced therapeutic efficacy

Polyphenols represent a broad class of natural chemical compounds comprising, but not limited to, tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavanones, flavanols, anthocyanins, and their related polymerized derivatives. Polyphenols are an important component of various commercial, naturally derived products with therapeutic properties. However, their full therapeutic potential is restricted by inherently low solubility and limited dispersibility in the aqueous phase.

This special report provides a focused viewpoint of various polyphenols conjugated with polysaccharides such as chitosan, dextran, curdlan, alginate, gellan, and pectin. The advantages and performance of conjugating polysaccharides to polyphenols are presented and discussed. Further to this, nanoplatforms of polyphenol-conjugated polysaccharides with enhanced therapeutic efficacy and physicochemical properties are discussed.

Conjugation of polyphenols with polysaccharides, using various chemical conjugation techniques, may provide an amenable solution to the envisaged polyphenol efficacy challenge. The conjugation of polyphenols with polysaccharides offers multiple advantages, including improved aqueous solubility, enhanced protection against oxidative degradation, and targeted delivery through ligand-functionalized nanocarriers. This approach not only improves the pharmacokinetic profile of polyphenols but also maximizes their therapeutic efficacy while minimizing off-target toxicity. Furthermore, polysaccharide-polyphenol conjugates hold immense potential in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceutical formulations, where enhanced bioactivity and controlled release are desired.