Structure-function relationships of immunostimulatory polysaccharides: A review

- The immunostimulatory activity of polysaccharides triggering cellular events is presented.
- Glucans, mannans, and pectic polysaccharides are the most studied immunostimulatory polysaccharides.
- The immunostimulatory activity is influenced by a combination of structural features.
- Triple-helix and acetyl and sulfate groups highly contribute to the immunostimulation.
- More in vitro and in vivo assays with well structurally defined polysaccharides are required.