Carbohydrates, the primary source of energy in the human diet, are broken down into monosaccharides (mainly glucose and fructose) by mucosal α-glucosidases in the small intestine, before being absorbed into the bloodstream through various glucose transporters. Despite their efficiency as an energy source, excessive intake of high-glycemic carbohydrates can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, which place significant strain on the body’s glucose regulatory mechanisms. This contributes to metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Consequently, there is growing interest in the development of carbohydrate-based materials that slow glucose absorption and reduce postprandial blood sugar spikes—referred to as slowly digestible carbohydrates. Research has shown that these carbohydrates not only help regulate glucose homeostasis but also activate the “ileal brake” mechanism, which stimulates the release of peptide YY and glucagon-like peptide-1, both of which play roles in appetite regulation and satiety.

In 2024, the Carbohydrate Biotechnology Laboratory made a significant transition, relocating to the Department of Food Science and Biotechnology at Sejong University, Seoul, after nearly a decade at Gachon University (2015–2024). Our team remains committed to pioneering innovative strategies to modulate carbohydrate digestion and mitigate postprandial glucose spikes, continuing our pursuit of groundbreaking research in this critical field.

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