Trending: Algal polysaccharides
Research interest in algal polysaccharides has increased in recent years due their significant and wide-ranging bioactivities. A recent review paper has revealed global research trends and identified potential knowledge gaps for future investigation.
Drawing on research from 1989 through to 2023, the authors noted the exponential rise in the number of published research papers that commenced in 2002 and that continues to identify algal polysaccharides as a prominent field of research. To provide insight, in 2002 there were 73 scientific publications across the field, compared to more than 500 in 2023. The authors noted that the rising number of publications indicates, “increasing academic interest in this domain.”
Effective analysis of the scientific literature typically involves keyword searches. Keywords are useful in assessing the popularity of a topic and forecasting potential hotspots for future research. The study identified that the term ‘fucoidan’ was the most utilised keyword, followed by ‘sulfated polysaccharides’ and ‘brown algae’. In terms of subject categories - chemistry, biotechnology and applied microbiology were the most popular.
The study noted the extensive literature published regarding anti-cancer, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties of algal polysaccharides. It also highlighted the opportunity for clinical trials in the field of viral infection with a view to developing novel antiviral medications and for the enhancement of vaccines.
The paper, ‘Identifying the major research trends in algae polysaccharides: a scientometric analysis from 1989 to 2023’ was published in the journal Biologia.