Recent Advances in Betaine: Extraction, Identification, and Bioactive Functions in Human Health

Betaine plays a crucial role in regulating the physiological metabolism of plant fruits and exhibits specific biological activities across animals, plants, and microorganisms. This review highlights that betaine can serve as a nutritional supplement with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Specifically, through its antioxidant activity, betaine enhances liver detoxification, reduces cell apoptosis, potentially mitigates the progression of liver fibrosis, and exerts beneficial effects on radiation-induced liver injury. A growing body of research utilizing animal models has indicated that betaine, due to its unique bioactivity, may be integral to both human health and industrial progress. However, there remains a notable scarcity of reviews focusing on the biological synthesis of betaine. This paper presents a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the natural sources and concentrations of betaine, encompassing its biosynthetic pathways, bioactive functions, and potential mechanisms underlying its effects on human health. Special emphasis is placed on the biological effects of betaine in animal therapy as well as its mechanisms influencing human health. Furthermore, recommendations are offered for optimizing the utilization of betaine.