Structure and bioactivities of fungal polysaccharides

Abstract

Edible fungi have been consumed as medicines and food in Asian countries since time immemorial. Health benefits of edible fungi are mainly associated to polysaccharides, which are major bioactive components. Contemporary phytochemical and pharmacological studies have proved that polysaccharides are one of the major active ingredients in different types of edible and medicinal fungi. It has been demonstrated that polysaccharides exhibit significant biological activities, including immunomodulation, antitumor, antioxidant, anticancer, and antiviral activities. The purpose of the present review was to summarize previous and current references regarding structural characterization and biological activities of different fungal polysaccharides.