Progress in Structural Modification and Anti-Tumor Activity of Plant Polysaccharides: Enhancing Efficacy and Bioavailability

Plant polysaccharides are a class of widely distributed biomolecules with significant and diverse bioactivities, such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and immunoregulation, making them promising candidates for anti-tumor biopharmaceuticals. In this review, recent advancements in the anti-tumor research of plant polysaccharides are summarized from three perspectives: the inherent anti-tumor activity of plant polysaccharides, the enhancement of this activity through chemical modifications, and the development of polysaccharide-based drug delivery systems. Chemical modifications, especially sulfation, phosphorylation, acetylation, and carboxymethylation, have been shown to significantly enhance the antitumor efficacy of plant polysaccharides by promoting apoptosis and modulating immune responses. Furthermore, polysaccharide-based drug delivery systems have been proven effective in reducing tumor drug resistance and improving bioavailability. Based on these findings, we propose two key directions for future research: first, translating these advancements into clinical applications to benefit patients, and second, deepening interdisciplinary research to further enhance our understanding and application of plant polysaccharides in cancer therapy.