Advances in Polysaccharides of Natural Source of the Anti‐breast Cancer Effect and Mechanism

ABSTRACT Natural polysaccharides, a class of high‐molecular‐weight carbohydrates, have garnered significant attention in anti‐tumor research due to their abundant sources, diverse biological activities, and low toxicity. Breast cancer, as one of the most common malignant tumors in women, poses a serious threat to patients' lives and health due to its high incidence and metastatic potential. Currently, certain studies have fully demonstrated that natural polysaccharides exhibit significant potential against breast cancer. Their mechanisms of action are complex and diverse, involving multiple key processes including inducing tumor cell apoptosis, inhibiting cell proliferation, blocking tumor angiogenesis, regulating the body's immune function, suppressing tumor metastasis, and reversing drug resistance. This review systematically and comprehensively analyzes the extraction, isolation, and purification methods of natural polysaccharides. It also elaborates in detail on the anti‐breast cancer mechanisms of polysaccharides from different sources and discusses the current limitations in research and future development directions based on the latest findings. The aim is to provide a solid theoretical basis and novel research perspectives for the development and application of natural polysaccharides in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.