Comprehensive characterization of Rubus idaeus L. Polysaccharides: Extraction, purification, structural diversity,...

Rubus idaeus L. is a member of the Rosaceae family, genus Rubus. Its fruit is not only edible but also used in traditional Chinese ethnomedicine; in addition, the plant itself serves ornamental purposes. One of its major chemical constituents, Rubus idaeus L. polysaccharides (RP), exhibits a range of biological activities, including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and gut microbiota-regulating effects. Contemporary research on RP aims to elucidate their biological activities and mechanisms of action, thereby validating and scientifically interpreting the material basis of their traditional therapeutic effects at the molecular level. This not only deepens the understanding of ethnopharmacological wisdom but also provides critical scientific evidence for their development in high value-added fields such as functional foods, nutraceuticals, and novel pharmaceutical adjuvants.

This review summarizes recent advances in the extraction, separation, purification, structural characterization, and biological activities of RP. It also explores the structure-activity relationships and potential research directions, aiming to support the further development and application of RP in the fields of medicine and functional foods.

Relevant literature on the extraction, separation, purification, structural features, and biological activities of RP was collected through databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and CNKI.

Rubus idaeus L. is a temperate climbing shrub that thrives in loose, humus-rich soils that are moist but not waterlogged. Globally, it is utilized as a medicinal plant, as well as a food and ornamental species. RP is among the key bioactive components of the plant. Various extraction methods have been developed, including hot water extraction, enzymatic extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction. The Sevag method is commonly employed for the purification of RP. Structural studies of RP have primarily focused on their monosaccharide composition, molecular weight, and glycosidic linkage patterns. RP possesses diverse pharmacological properties, such as immunomodulation, anti-inflammation, antioxidation, antitumor activity, and the ability to modulate gut microbiota. At present, research on RP has been relatively well established in terms of extraction, purification, primary structure including monosaccharide composition, molecular weight and glycosidic linkage patterns, as well as pharmacological activities. However, studies concerning their advanced structures, structure-activity relationships, and structural modifications remain comparatively limited.

RP is among the key bioactive constituents of Rubus idaeus L. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the extraction, isolation, purification, biological activities, and structure-activity relationships of RP, offering valuable reference and support for their applications in pharmaceuticals, food products, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics.