Polysaccharides from Helianthus: Extraction, bioactivities, and emerging applications

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Helianthus, encompassing species like Helianthus annuus L., is a globally cultivated genus in the Asteraceae family.
• Helianthus polysaccharides (HPs) are bioactive compounds with significant applications in food, medicine, and agriculture.
• HPs exhibit a range of pharmacological activities, including radioprotective, antitumor, hypoglycemic, anti-obesity, and antiviral properties, alongside intestinal mucosal barrier protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive summary of recent advancements in Helianthus polysaccharides (HPs).
• To cover the extraction, purification, structure, pharmacological activities, structure-activity relationships, and applications of HPs.
• To analyze current patents and identify research gaps for future investigations into sunflower and other plant-derived polysaccharides.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent advances in Helianthus polysaccharides (HPs).
• Analysis of extraction, purification, structural characteristics, and pharmacological activities.
• Examination of structure-activity relationships and current patent landscape.
• Identification of research gaps and future directions.

Main Results:

• Helianthus polysaccharides (HPs) demonstrate a broad spectrum of bioactivities relevant to health and agriculture.
• Recent studies have advanced the understanding of HP extraction, purification, and structural elucidation.
• The pharmacological effects of HPs are linked to their specific structures, with ongoing patent activity indicating commercial interest.

Conclusions:

• Helianthus polysaccharides (HPs) are promising bioactive compounds with diverse therapeutic and agricultural potential.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action and optimize the application of HPs.
• Identifying research gaps will guide future studies on sunflower and other plant-derived polysaccharides, potentially leading to novel applications.