Abstract:Auricularia heimuer is an important edible and medicinal fungus, and its polysaccharides have significant biological activities. This paper introduces the extraction and purification techniques of A. heimuer polysaccharides (AHP), especially focusing on new methods for improving the purity and biological activities of AHP. Then, this paper expounds the fine structure analysis technologies and the correlations between the complex structure and biological activities of AHP, which gives new insights into the understanding of the functional mechanisms of AHP. In addition, this paper reviews the research progress in the biological activities (including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-tumor activities) of AHP and proposes a new application strategy based on the characteristics of AHP. Finally, we point out the gaps and challenges in the current research on AHP, and put forward the future research directions, including polysaccharide modification, nanotechnology application, and the synergistic effects between AHP and other bioactive substances (such as dietary fiber, proteins, and vitamins), aiming to provide a theoretical reference for the development and utilization of AHP in the big health industry.