Identify the correct statement about Fucoidans:
Identify the correct statement about Fucoidans:
Select an option to attempt
Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation
Fucoidans: sulfated polysaccharides from brown algae:Fucoidans are a class of marine biopolymers with the following characteristics:• Composition: Sulfated polysaccharides; primary sugar = L-fucose (a deoxy sugar); also contain galactose, mannose, xylose, uronic acids, and sulfate groups.• Source: Cell walls and extracellular matrix of BROWN ALGAE (Phaeophyta): Fucus vesiculosus, Undaria pinnatifida (wakame), Laminaria.• Charged surface: anionic due to sulfate groups (similar to heparin).Bioactivities:• Anticoagulant (heparin-like): inhibit thrombin and factor Xa.• Antiviral: inhibit viral adhesion to cells.• Anti-inflammatory.• Immunomodulatory.• Anti-tumour effects in vitro.Biotechnological interest: Marine biotechnology, nutraceuticals, functional food ingredients.Answer: Fucoidans are sulfated polysaccharides containing L-fucose, found in brown algae cell walls; possess anticoagulant and immunomodulatory activities.