Insights into structural characterization and biological properties of polysaccharides from the genus Grateloupia: A...

The genus Grateloupia is the largest member of the Grateloupiaceae family and is widely distributed in coastal areas worldwide. In China, it is called "Wugongzao" due to its resemblance to a centipede in morphology. As a type of sea vegetables, it has excellent chewiness and refreshing mouthfeel. Additionally, it has medicinal values such as clearing heat, detoxification, and insect repellent in China. As one of its main biologically active macromolecules, the genus Grateloupia polysaccharides (TGGPs) possess a variety of pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, anti-tumor, hypoglycemic, and probiotic activities. TGGPs are highly active and non-toxic, making them indispensable in both the food industry and the medical field. However, there is currently no review article that systematically summarizes them. This review discusses and summarizes the latest developments and shortcomings in the extraction, isolation and purification, chemical structure and modification, and bioactivities of TGGPs. At the same time, the utilization and production of TGGPs in medicine, functional foods, cosmetics, agriculture and fisheries are also reported. We believe this work will provide new and valuable insights for future research on TGGPs potential applications.