Therapeutic mechanisms of natural plant polysaccharides in ulcerative colitis: A review

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a multifactorial intestinal disorder triggered by chronic inflammation. It is difficult to cure, recurrent, and associated with extraintestinal manifestations. Natural plant polysaccharides (NPPs) are vital macromolecules in living organisms, serving as fundamental substances for sustaining normal physiological functions. They offer advantages such as low cost and exhibit favorable safety profiles in most reported studies. NPPs alleviate UC by modulating multiple pathways that reduce oxidative stress in the gut. This review specifically highlights recent advances in understanding the mechanisms underlying NPPs' therapeutic effects on UC. This study aims to systematically summarize the latest research findings on how NPPs regulate oxidative stress and related signaling pathways, providing theoretical foundations and practical guidance for developing highly effective and safe UC treatment strategies.