Emerging insights into the structure-activity relationship of water-soluble polysaccharides in antiviral therapy

This review provides an overview of recent advancements in understanding the antiviral activities and mechanism of action of water-soluble polysaccharides (WSPs). Water-soluble polysaccharides are complex carbohydrate molecules derived from various natural sources, including plants, microorganisms, and fungi. Their unique structural characteristics make them intriguing candidates for antiviral therapeutics. However, in this review, we highlight the emerging insights into the multifaceted antiviral properties of water-soluble polysaccharides. These substances have exhibited the ability to hinder the activity of various viruses, encompassing both enveloped and non-enveloped types. Their mechanisms of action encompass interference with viral attachment and entry, inhibition of viral replication, modulation of the host immune response, and even direct virucidal effects. Furthermore, we delve into the structural features of water-soluble polysaccharides that underpin their antiviral potential. Factors such as molecular weight, branching patterns, sulfation, and acetylation play pivotal roles in their antiviral activity. Additionally, we explore the importance of water-soluble polysaccharide conformation, size, shape, solubility, charge density, and stereochemistry in influencing their interactions with viral particles and host cell receptors. Moreover, this review provides the growing significance of water-soluble polysaccharides as promising antiviral agents and emphasizes the need for further research to harness their full therapeutic potential in the fight against viral diseases.