Unraveling the Web of Defense: The Crucial Role of Polysaccharides in Immunity

Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that play a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immunity by enhancing immune responses through interactions with immune cells and receptors. They exhibit diverse structures that influence their biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Polysaccharides stimulate immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells, modulate cytokine production, and influence gut microbiota, promoting immune health. They show potential in therapeutic applications, such as cancer immunotherapy and treatment of autoimmune diseases, due to their immunostimulatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite their promise, further research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms and develop polysaccharide-based treatments for immune-related diseases.