Work

Food regulation of incretin axis: Molecular mechanisms and clinical outlook in diabetes

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is a global metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, and incretin axis dysregulation. Incretin hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) are critical for glucose homeostasis via the gut-islet axis, but their activity is impaired in T2DM, necessitating novel dietary interventions. Scope and approach This review synthesizes current research on how natural food components (dietary fiber, lipids, amino acids, probiotics, polyphenols, piperine) modulate the incretin axis. Mechanisms including SCFA-mediated receptor activation, DPP-IV inhibition, and gut microbiota regulation are analyzed, with emphasis on molecular pathways and clinical evidence. Key findings and conclusions Dietary fibers (e.g., β-glucan, inulin) are fermented into SCFAs (acetate, butyrate) to activate FFAR2/3 and GPR43 on intestinal L cells, enhancing GLP-1 secretion and improving glycemia in T2DM. Lipids and certain amino acids modulate incretins via GPCR activation (e.g., GPR120, FFAR1) and metabolic pathways (e.g., α-KG, cAMP). Probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus reuteri) and bioactives (polyphenols, piperine) promote GLP-1 through SCFA production, bile acid signaling, or DPP-IV inhibition. These interventions offer multitarget, low-toxicity benefits for T2DM management, with synergistic effects in combinations (e.g., synbiotics). Future research should prioritize precision nutrition using multi-omics biomarkers and food technologies (e.g., nanodelivery) to enhance bioavailability and personalized efficacy.

Source: Trends in Food Science & Technology

DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2025.105326

Authors: Qingle Huang, Huaxiang Deng, Mao-Cheng Sun, Changhui Zhao

Institutions: Jilin University, Changchun University

Language: English

Topic: Diabetes Treatment and Management

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,440