Structural diversity, biosynthesis, and extraction of brown algae fucoidan and its bio-stimulant applications in crop improvement

Fucoidan is a sulfate-containing polysaccharide present in the cell wall of brown algae. It ensures the survival of the algae in the marine environment by providing protection against desiccation and osmotic stress. This review explores the structural diversity, synthesis, extraction methods, and application potential of fucoidan of brown algae with a focus on its bio-stimulant activities in plants. The structural variation of fucoidan in brown algae depends on various parameters, and it is the key factor for determining its biological activities. The synthesis of this polysaccharide takes place in the Golgi bodies, and it involves several steps for the polymerization and further modifications. Extraction and purification of this polysaccharide from the algal biomass involve several steps, and choosing the appropriate method is crucial for achieving maximum yield. As a complex heterogeneous polysaccharide, fucoidan possesses diverse biological activities, such as: anticancer, anticoagulant, antioxidant, immunomodulatory effects. Nowadays fucoidan is a topic of intense research, and studies are ongoing to explore its potential applications. This review also focuses on explaining bio-stimulant application in plants along with its potential application in: cancer research, tissue engineering, drug delivery, food coating and as an edible film and storage material for fruits with a particular emphasis on its role in promoting plant growth and enhancing stress tolerance.