Sulfated polysaccharides: Immunomodulation and signaling mechanisms

ConclusionsThe mechanisms by which sulfated polysaccharides exert their immunological activity is mainly due to the regulation of macrophage function, natural killer cells, and T/B lymphocytes, together with the stimulation of the immune responses of lymphocytes and the activation of the complement system. The immunological activity of sulfated polysaccharides depends not only on the source of the polysaccharide but also on structural characteristics, such as molecular weight and DS. Studies on the mechanisms of immune function have shown that the action of sulfated polysaccharides is a complex process that may be regulated by one or more pathways. Nevertheless, the link between the immunological mechanisms and structure of sulfated polysaccharides requires further exploration.
Source: Trends in Food Science and Technology - Category: Food Science Source Type: research