Recent advances in the modulatory effects and mechanisms of food-derived polysaccharides on hepatic lipid metabolic dysfunction
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 10, 2026

A Model of Experimental Steatosis In Vitro: Hepatocyte Cell Culture in Lipid Overload-Conditioned Medium
Published on: May 18, 2021
Yue Zhang1, Qing Chen2, Zhi Ouyang3
1School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China.
Abstract:
This review systematically explores the therapeutic potential of food-derived polysaccharides (FDPs) in ameliorating hepatic lipid metabolic dysfunction, with a specific focus on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The role of gut microbiota (GM) and its metabolites in mediating these effects is highlighted. Additionally, we identify key hepatic protein targets that are regulated by FDPs. The review integrates the structural characteristics of FDPs with their mechanistic actions along the gut-liver axis, providing insight into the structure-activity relationships and examining how factors such as molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and functional groups influence bioactivity. Challenges in translating these findings from preclinical models to clinical practice are discussed. By connecting polysaccharide structural biology with metabolic health outcomes, this review offers new perspectives on developing FDPs as natural, targeted nutritional interventions for the management of MASLD.
Related Concept Videos
Overview of Carbohydrate Metabolism
Glucose transport into cells is facilitated by a family of transport proteins called GLUT (Glucose Transporters). GLUT4 is the primary glucose transporter for insulin-stimulated glucose...
Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Pathophysiologic Assessment and Liver Function Test
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose and miglitol are...
Regulation of Food Intake
Overview of Lipid Metabolism
Lipolysis: The Breakdown of Lipids:
Lipolysis is the process of breaking down lipids, particularly triglycerides, into glycerol and fatty acids. This process typically occurs in the adipose tissue and is triggered by various hormones, including glucagon and...
Liver Physiology
Metabolic Regulation:
The liver is the central organ involved in regulating blood composition. It stabilizes blood glucose levels, maintaining them within the range of 70–110 mg/dL. When these levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen reserves and releases glucose into the bloodstream. It can...

