Revolutionizing therapeutics: The dazzling world of plant lectins

Abstract

Plant lectins, a diverse group of carbohydrate-binding proteins, have garnered significant interest for their potential biomedical applications. This review explores their multifaceted functionalities, highlighting their historical significance, unique carbohydrate recognition properties, and therapeutic potential in various medical conditions. We discuss their efficacy against microbes, cancer cells, and inflammation, as well as their roles in blood typing, diagnostics, wound healing, and neuroprotection. Additionally, we explored the potential of lectin-based drug delivery systems and lectin-nanoparticle conjugates for targeted therapeutic interventions. However, challenges such as lectin specificity, toxicity, production methods, and clinical validation are acknowledged. Overcoming these hurdles is crucial to unlocking the full potential of plant lectins and paving the way for advancements in medicine.

Keywords

• Plant lectins
• Future potential
• Antimicrobial activities
• Antiviral activity
• Anticancer
• Antiulcer