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The Antiviral Activity of Bacterial, Fungal, and Algal Polysaccharides as Bioactive Ingredients: Potential Uses for Enhancing Immune Systems and Preventing Viruses

Summary

This research examines how natural sugar compounds (polysaccharides) from microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and algae can help fight viral infections and boost our immune system. These compounds are safe, natural and show promise in preventing viral diseases including COVID-19. The findings impact everyday life in several ways: • These compounds could be added to foods as natural immune-boosting ingredients • They may help prevent viral infections including COVID-19 when consumed regularly • They could be developed into natural antiviral medications with fewer side effects • They may reduce our dependence on synthetic antiviral drugs • They could be used to create new functional foods and supplements for better immune health

Background

Viral infections can cause serious human diseases, with SARS-CoV-2 causing COVID-19 being a recent example of global concern. Proper nutrition and functional foods play an important role in enhancing immunity and preventing viral infections. Several polysaccharides from natural sources like algae, bacteria, and fungi are considered GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA and show promise as safe, low-toxicity, biodegradable compounds with biological activities.

Objective

This review aimed to evaluate bioactive polysaccharides derived from various microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and algae, discuss their antiviral mechanisms, and address their potential use as antiviral and immune-boosting strategies.

Results

The review found that microbial polysaccharides exhibit multiple bioactivities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antitumor, and immunomodulatory activities. Sulfated polysaccharides showed particularly broad spectrum biological activities, especially antiviral properties. These compounds can inhibit various viruses through different mechanisms and modulate immune responses to prevent virus infections. Their bioactivities are influenced by multiple molecular factors including functional groups, conformations, compositions, and molecular weight.

Conclusion

Microbial polysaccharides show significant potential as adjuvants, nutrient supplements, and drug delivery vehicles for preventing viral infections, especially SARS-CoV-2. Their ability to enhance immune response and provide antiviral effects, combined with their safety profile and biodegradability, makes them promising candidates for therapeutic applications and functional food ingredients.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Nutrition,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3389/fnut.2021.772033
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