Highlights
(1) The chemical, physical and biological synthesis methods of metal ion complexes of polysaccharides were compared, and summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the complexation methods.
(2) The characterization methods commonly used in the study were summarized to determine whether polysaccharide and metal ions were successfully complexed under certain conditions.
(3) Polysaccharide metal ion complexes usually have better biological activities than metal ions or polysaccharides alone.
(4) Researchers have successfully combined Tremella polysaccharides with iron ions.
Graphical Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive review of the synthesis, biological activity, structural characterization, and research advancements related to metal ion complexes of polysaccharides. Initially, we conduct a comparative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages associated with chemical synthesis, physical synthesis, and biosynthesis. Subsequently, we compare the biological activities of polysaccharide-metal ion complexes before and after coordination. The results indicate that these complexes generally exhibit enhanced biological activities compared to their individual components—metal ions or polysaccharides—including antioxidant, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, immunomodulatory, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Furthermore, structural characterization techniques were employed to confirm successful complexation of polysaccharide-metal ion complexes as well as any structural modifications occurring pre- and post-complexation. Finally, future directions for research on metal ion complexes derived from Tremella polysaccharides are proposed in order to provide insights for the development of novel therapeutic agents and adjuvants.
Abstract
Currently, the synthesis of polysaccharide metal ion complex is predominantly categorized into three approaches: chemical synthesis, physical synthesis and biosynthesis method. According to research, polysaccharide metal ion complexes usually exhibit superior biological activities than metal ions or polysaccharides alone, including antioxidant, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, immune regulation, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities. In this paper, the preparation process, biological activity and structural characteristics of polysaccharide metal ion complexes were reviewed, aiming to provide references for the development of new therapeutic drugs and adjuvants. And the complexation of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides and metal ions was prospected.