Research progress on the regulation of gut microbiota by Chinese yam polysaccharides

Abstract

Chinese yam is a traditional medicinal herb with a long history of medicinal and edible use in China. Polysaccharides are one of its main active components, possessing biological activities such as immune regulation, anti-tumor, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Recent research has indicated that Chinese yam polysaccharides (CYPs) play a significant role in promoting intestinal health and balancing gut microbiota. The gut microbiota has a direct impact on human digestion, nutrient absorption, energy levels, fat metabolism, and immune system regulation. Moreover, its imbalance can lead to the occurrence of various diseases such as enteritis, diabetes, obesity, tumors, and more. This review provides a brief overview of the extraction, isolation, purification, and structural characteristics of CYPs, with a particular emphasis on their prebiotic benefits, including anti-inflammatory bowel disease, anti-obesity, immune modulation, and anti-inflammatory effects, laying a foundation for future applications of CYPs in the treatment of related diseases.