Plant polysaccharides for cancer theranostics

The quest to identify potential alternatives and replacements for conventional cancer treatment methods has led to the investigation of natural-based sources for cancer treatment. Among various natural-based sources, plants are heralded as sustainable biological sources containing active components, such as phytochemicals, polysaccharides, vitamins, and proteins, suitable for the development of natural medicines. The phytoconstituents in the plants are highly beneficial as potential drug candidates due to their high biocompatibility, bioavailability, and bioreactivity. Among these phytoconstituents, plant-based polysaccharides are currently gaining significant attention among researchers for the formulation of conventional drugs or as standalone drug candidates. Homopolysaccharides, heteropolysaccharides, cell walls, and storage-based polysaccharides are the types of plant-based polysaccharides. These plant-based polysaccharides possess several biological properties, such as antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, antitumor, and immune regulation. This chapter provides an overview of various plant-based polysaccharides and their specific biological properties. In addition, the anticancer property of plant-based polysaccharides and their ability to be utilized in other treatment modalities for cancer treatment are also discussed.