Research progress in polysaccharides from the Tremella fuciformis (silver ear): extraction, purification, structural...

Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides (TFPs), as one of the pivotal functional constituents of T. fuciformis, have attracted increasing attention because of their diverse health-promoting activities. At present, TFPs have garnered considerable interest from researchers worldwide owing to their broad spectrum of biological effects, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, gut-regulatory, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, radioprotective, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anti-aging activities. However, the development and utilization of TFP-based functional foods and therapeutic products have been substantially constrained by the limited understanding of their structure-activity relationships (SARs), potential applications, and safety profiles. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the extraction, purification, structural characteristics, pharmacological properties, and underlying mechanisms of TFPs. In addition, the structure-activity relationships, potential applications, safety evaluation, and modification strategies associated with their bioactivities are highlighted, together with a discussion of future research directions. This review is intended to provide a theoretical basis for the further investigation and application of TFPs in cosmetics, functional foods, beverages, and healthcare products.