Therapeutic potential of fucoidan in atherosclerosis: a review

Abstract

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a slowly progressive disease that significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The development of AS is closely associated with various factors, including disturbances in lipid metabolism, endothelial damage, inflammation, and the formation of unstable plaques. AS is strongly linked to diseases with high incidence and mortality, such as ischemic heart disease and stroke, which pose significant economic burdens. Recent studies have focused on identifying effective treatments for preventing and reversing AS. New evidence indicates that fucoidan, a polysaccharide derived from rockweed, possesses lipid-lowering, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, endothelial-protective and prebiotic properties that align with the pathophysiology of AS, making it a promising therapeutic candidate. This review systematically presents recent progress in understanding the anti-atherosclerotic effects of fucoidan, particularly its underlying mechanisms. These mechanisms involve the regulation of lipid levels, reduction of vascular inflammation, enhancement of antioxidant defenses, and protection of the vascular endothelium. These insights are essential for improving cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health.