Dimocarpus longan polysaccharides: Advances in extraction and purification, structural characterization, biological...

Polysaccharides from Dimocarpus longan (DLP) have attracted increasing interest for their structural diversity and potential health benefits. This review summarizes DLP extraction and purification methods, structural characteristics, biological activities, and chemical modification strategies, with an emphasis on their potential applications in the food industry. Preclinical studies suggest that DLP possess immunomodulatory, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities and can modulate the gut microbiota. However, their structure-activity relationships remain insufficiently understood, limiting the rational development of DLP-based food ingredients. Future research should clarify their fine structures and higher-order conformations, establish quantitative structure-activity relationships, and elucidate the mechanisms underlying their biological activities. Further evaluation of safety and efficacy is also needed to support translation into food applications. This review provides a basis for future research and the development of DLP as functional food ingredients.