Fucoidan: A marine-derived polysaccharide with therapeutic potential in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases: A review

Fucoidan, a marine polysaccharide composed mainly of L-fucose and sulfate groups, has been widely studied for its applications in cancer therapy, wound healing, and the food industry. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) encompasses a range of cardiovascular conditions, including acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, ischemic stroke, and peripheral arterial atherosclerosis (AS), with AS being the fundamental pathological basis. However, the application of fucoidan in ASCVD remains understudied. Current clinical strategies have had limited success in reducing the incidence and mortality rates of ASCVD. Recent research indicates that fucoidan has promising therapeutic properties in ASCVD management. This article explores fucoidan's regulatory mechanisms in inhibiting ASCVD onset and progression, focusing on its hypolipidemic, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticoagulant, and pro-angiogenic effects. Additionally, we analyze fucoidan-based products and materials currently under evaluation for ASCVD prevention and treatment. Collectively, this review not only highlights the potential value of fucoidan in ASCVD, but also lays the foundation for future optimization of its therapeutic application and clinical translation into an effective clinical intervention, which is expected to bring new breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of ASCVD patients.