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Applied Sciences OPEN ACCESS

Marine-derived Sugars for Cancer Therapy: A New Wave in Natural Drug Discovery

Mohd Jari Hasan Rizvi
Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Gomti Nagar Extension, Lucknow - 226028, India
Aymma Athar
Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Gomti Nagar Extension, Lucknow - 226028, India
Aditi Singh
Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Gomti Nagar Extension, Lucknow - 226028, India
DOI Crossref DOI 10.37547/tajas/warm-23
tajas 2026
JOURNAL PUBLICATION MAY
FULL TEXT PP. 262-271
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VOLUME —
ISSUE —
YEAR 2026
PAGES 262-271
RESEARCH OVERVIEW

Abstract

Polysaccharides sourced from marine environments (termed “marine sugars”)—notably fucoidan, chitosan, alginate, carrageenan, laminarin, and ulvan—exhibit natural bioactivity and beneficial material properties that make them attractive candidates for oncology drug delivery systems (DDS). Recent developments (2023-2025) indicate that receptor-targeted strategies, like P-selectin–fucoidan interactions, notably enhance transcytosis and promote deeper tumor infiltration. Simultaneously, stimuli-sensitive hydrogels and designed nanoparticles facilitate controlled, localized drug delivery, whereas innovative combined therapies effectively integrate these polysaccharide carriers with leading chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapies. This review thoroughly integrates structural–functional relationships, key design strategies, significant preclinical results, production scaling, and vital safety considerations. Additionally, a strategic translational route for progressing marine-sugar DDS to clinical evaluation is outlined. Key translational challenges—including consistent material characterization, strict management of endotoxins and impurities, and clear structure–activity profiles for sulfation and molecular weight—are highlighted, along with suggested steps to connect laboratory findings to clinical applications.

RESEARCH TOPICS

Keywords

marine polysaccharides fucoidan chitosan alginate drug administration cancer selectin targeting hydrogel

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