Molecular modification, structure-activity relationship and practical application of wheat bran arabinoxylan: A review.

Wheat bran arabinoxylan (WBAX), a major dietary fiber component in wheat bran, has garnered increasing attention due to its versatile physicochemical properties and potential health benefits, including immunomodulatory, prebiotic, and hypoglycemic effects. Despite its abundance as a by-product of wheat milling, WBAX remains underutilized in food systems. This review systematically summarizes recent progress in the extraction, purification, molecular modification, and structural characterization of WBAX. It further explores the structure-activity relationships underlying its bioactivities, such as lipid regulation, gut microbiota modulation, and immune enhancement. Finally, the practical applications of WBAX as delivery vehicles, packaging materials, and functional food ingredients are critically evaluated. The structure and functionality of WBAX are highly influenced by extraction and modification methods. However, challenges remain in scaling up green extraction and clarifying the fine structure-activity relationships. Future research should focus on sustainable production and precise design of WBAX-based materials for broader food and biomedical applications.