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Updated: Apr 18, 2026

Network Pharmacology Prediction and Metabolomics Validation of the Mechanism of Fructus Phyllanthi against Hyperlipidemia
Published on: April 7, 2023
Mechanisms used by inulin-type fructans to improve the lipid profile
Sandra Aparecida dos Reis1, Lisiane Lopes da Conceição1, Damiana Diniz Rosa1
1Department of Nutrition and Health, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Brazil.. sandraadosreis@hotmail.com.
Aims:
The consumption of prebiotics has been associated with improvement in the lipid profile. Thus, this review aims to describe the main mechanisms by which inulin-type fructans improve the lipid profile and thereby reduce the cardiovascular risk.
Data Synthesis:
Inulin-type fructans have been demonstrated to improve the lipid profile through a number of mechanisms. These mechanisms include: decrease in gene expression of hepatic enzymes responsible for de novo synthesis of lipids; increase of muscle lipoprotein lipase enzyme activity, enhancing the production of short-chain fatty acids; altered production of polyamines which increases the production of satiogenic peptide; altered blood glucose and insulinemia; increase of fecal excretion of bile salts and cholesterol and increase of the Bifidobacterium population.
Conclusions:
The consumption of inulin-type fructans enhances lipid profile. Generally, the mechanisms vary according to the physiologic state of the individual and the type of diet to which the inulin-type fructans are added. Thus, inulin may be used for the prevention and/or treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
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