Gut associated lymphoid tissue: Carbohydrate interactions within the intestine

Publication date: Available online 15 January 2020Source: Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary FibreAuthor(s): Xin Qi, Richard F. TesterAbstractCarbohydrates play a number of roles in the gut - although their presence and activity reach beyond the gut to other parts of the body. The carbohydrate family are not simply sources of energy and/or dietary fibre but at least some act on the gut associated lymphoid tissue both directly and indirectly (via microorganisms themselves and via products of microbiological fermentation), to elicit immune responses within the gut itself and systemically throughout the body. Prebiotic carbohydrates are used by gut friendly probiotic bacteria as a carbon source for growth - which is reflected in their immuno-supportive roles. The gut associated lymphoid tissue is critical to maintaining normal digestive processes - whilst protecting the gut and body from assault by toxins and pathogenic organisms. This area of physiology is still poorly understood; although gradually a picture is developing of how the immunogenic properties of dietary carbohydrates work within the gut. This review aims to explore this area of immunology and how it might be influenced by diet and specific components of the diet.Graphical abstractLumen of gut showing gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) interactions with carbohydrates.

Source: Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre - January 15, 2020 Category: Food Science Source Type: research