Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides: A comprehensive overview of pharmacological effects and future perspectives

From the paper

Abstract

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs), derived from the medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum, are recognized for their diverse pharmacological properties. This systematic review offers a detailed analysis of how the structure of GLPs influences their biological functions. It focuses on how factors such as the types of sugars they are made of, their size, branching patterns, and any chemical modifications affect their activities. We synthesized data from cellular, animal, and available clinical studies to highlight the impact of these structural features on GLPs' immunomodulatory, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor activities. The review also addresses the current challenges in GLPs research, including the variability in extraction methods, the lack of standardized quality control, and the need for further studies to clarify structure-activity relationships. Although GLPs show significant therapeutic potential, there is a need for more rigorous clinical trials, deeper mechanistic insights, and the development of standardized production methods to optimize their therapeutic applications. Future research should also explore novel drug formulations, alternative delivery systems, and the sustainable production of GLPs using agro-industrial waste, as these advancements could significantly enhance their clinical use. Despite substantial progress, challenges remain in fully realizing the therapeutic potential of GLPs, and overcoming these hurdles will be crucial for their future clinical application and integration into health-promoting products.