Research Progress of Sea Cucumber Polysaccharides on the Structure, Health Efficacy and Mechanism

Sea cucumber polysaccharides (SCPs) are characterized by their unique structural configurations and broad-spectrum bioactivities, which are manifested through their regulatory functions or interactions with microbial communities upon entering the organism. This paper systematically reviews SCPs into two primary categories: glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and sulfated fucoidans, with detailed comparisons of their molecular weights, chemical compositions, monosaccharide ratios and sulfate contents. The mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects are elucidated, including anticoagulant activity through thrombin inhibition and fibrinolytic enhancement, as well as immunomodulatory effects via macrophage activation and tumor cell apoptosis induction. Furthermore, the prebiotic potential of SCPs in modulating gut microbiota and alleviating metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes is reviewed. The feasibility of SCPs as bioactive agents for addressing various health issues, including thrombosis, cancer, obesity, and diabetes is demonstrated. Future research directions emphasize the development of SCPs in pharmaceutical and functional food applications, providing a theoretical foundation for their functional utilization.