Fucoidan’s molecular targets: a comprehensive review of itsunique and multiple targets accounting for promisingbioactivities supported by in silico studies

Fucoidan is a class of multifunctional polysaccharides derived from marine organisms. Itsunique and diversified physicochemical and chemical properties have qualified them for potentialand promising pharmacological uses in human diseases, including inflammation, tumors, immunitydisorders, kidney diseases, and diabetes. Physicochemical and chemical properties are the maincontributors to these bioactivities. The previous literature has attributed such activities to its ability totarget key enzymes and receptors involved in potential disease pathways, either directly or indirectly,where the anionic sulfate ester groups are mainly involved in these interactions. These findings alsoconfirm the advantageous pharmacological uses of sulfated versus non-sulfated polysaccharides.The current review shall highlight the molecular targets of fucoidans, especially enzymes, and thesubsequent responses via either the upregulation or downregulation of mediators’ expression invarious tissue abnormalities. In addition, in silico studies will be applied to support the previousfindings and show the significant contributors. The current review may help in understandingthe molecular mechanisms of fucoidan. Also, the findings of this review may be utilized in thedesign of specific oligomers inspired by fucoidan with the purpose of treating life-threatening humandiseases effectively.