Protective effects of plant polysaccharides on intestinal health via targeted regulation of gut microbiota.

Plant polysaccharides constitute a pivotal class of bioactive compounds that significantly impact intestinal health and immune function. Extensive research has highlighted their capacity to enhance intestinal mucosal barrier function, improve intestinal immunity and mitigate inflammation. This review comprehensively delves into the positive impacts of plant polysaccharides on intestinal health, with particular emphasis on their ability to modulate the interaction between gut microbiota and intestinal T helper cells, inhibit inflammatory cytokines, regulate inflammatory pathways, combat oxidative stress and modulate metabolic pathways. As natural bioactive substances, plant polysaccharides play a pivotal role in regulating intestinal health and immune function, presenting novel avenues for disease prevention and treatment. Despite the recognized protective effects of plant polysaccharides on gut microbiota, current research is constrained by methodological limitations and a lack of exploration into their mechanisms of action. However, with the advancement of scientific research methods and the ongoing development of clinical applications, it is anticipated that future studies will yield deeper insights into their protective effects and broaden their clinical applications. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.