Molecular perspectives on Acacia Gum as a functional polysaccharide for biomedical and industrial applications: A review

Acacia gum is a natural heteropolysaccharide derived from Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal. It has gained significant attention due to its unique macromolecular structure and functional biopolymer properties. This review critically evaluates its role in biomedical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications, with emphasis on the molecular mechanisms that influence its interactions with biological and synthetic systems, especially the arabinogalactan polysaccharide complex of Acacia gum, which facilitates the electrostatic and hydrogen bonding interactions, influencing nanoparticle stability, drug delivery, and hydrogel formation. Similarly, comparative analysis with synthetic polymers such as polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, and polyacrylic acid displays its superior colloidal stability, biodegradability, and emulsifying properties, presenting it as a promising alternative for biomedical applications. However, its potential as a nanocarrier in nucleic acid delivery remains unexplored, which requires further research to fully understand the molecular-level interactions. By integrating recent molecular insights with practical considerations, this review establishes a critical foundation for advancing Acacia gum from a largely descriptive biopolymer to a strategically engineered material with significant translational applications in medicine and industry.