Antioxidant Activities of Natural Polysaccharides and Their Derivatives for Biomedical and Medicinal Applications

Natural polysaccharides and their derivatives exhibit significant antioxidant activities, making them valuable for biomedical and medicinal applications. These polysaccharides can mitigate oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals, regulating signal transduction pathways, and enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity. They are sourced from plants, algae, fungi, and bacteria, with their antioxidant properties influenced by factors like molecular weight and monosaccharide composition. Chemical modifications, such as sulfation and phosphorylation, can enhance their capabilities. Polysaccharides are used in drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and food packaging, offering potential therapeutic benefits against diseases linked to oxidative stress, such as tumors, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Further research is needed to optimize their extraction and modification to fully harness their potential.