Structure-guided modulatory mechanisms of pectic polysaccharides in inflammatory bowel disease: From...

With the increasing global prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the limitations of conventional interventions-such as prolonged toxicity and the emergence of resistance-underscore the need for innovative strategies for intervention. Pectic polysaccharides (PPs), complex soluble fermentable dietary fibres derived from plant sources, exhibit substantial potential in managing IBD owing to their multifaceted immunomodulatory and fermentative attributes. Although the regulatory activity of PPs in IBD is closely tied to their structural diversity, a thorough understanding of the causal structure-function relationship remains elusive. This review synthesizes structural characterization of PPs-encompassing fundamental units, side-chain branching, functional group modifications, molecular weight distribution and conformational characteristics-with their structure-guided modulatory mechanisms, emphasizing structure-activity relationships and precision intervention approaches. Additionally, this paper examines the current challenges and delineates future research directions for the application of PPs in alleviating IBD, with the objective of establishing a precise framework that connects their molecular structure, bioactivity, and intervention efficacy.