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The structure-function relationships and interaction between polysaccharides and intestinal microbiota: A review.

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Polysaccharides interact with gut microbiota, influencing health and disease. Understanding their structure-function relationship is key to harnessing their benefits for gut health and disease prevention.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Nutrition Science
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in host physiology, impacting diet, disease, drug metabolism, and immunity.
  • Polysaccharides possess diverse biological activities, including antioxidant and anti-tumor properties, and can modulate gut microbiota.
  • Disruptions in gut flora are linked to various diseases like diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the structure-function relationships between polysaccharides and gut microbiota.
  • To explore how polysaccharides affect gut microbiota metabolism and disease outcomes.
  • To elucidate the impact of gut microbiota on polysaccharide metabolism.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review focusing on polysaccharide structure (molecular weight, glycosidic bonds, monosaccharide composition, advanced structure).
  • Analysis of studies detailing the effects of polysaccharides on gut microbiota and host health.
  • Examination of research on gut microbiota's influence on polysaccharide metabolism.

Main Results:

  • Polysaccharides can be degraded and utilized through interactions with gut microbiota.
  • Polysaccharides promote beneficial gut bacteria and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, improving health.
  • The relationship between polysaccharide structure and gut microbiota function requires further investigation.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding polysaccharide structure-function relationships is vital for optimizing gut health.
  • Polysaccharides hold therapeutic potential for managing gut dysbiosis-related diseases.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interplay between polysaccharides and the gut microbiome.