Structure & properties of polysaccharides of biological interest
Dr Bajka, Prof. Butterworth and Prof. Ellis study the structure and properties of polysaccharides of biological interest, especially complex supramolecular bio-assemblies found in plant foods, namely starch and cell wall matrices (‘dietary fibre’). This work has been funded by grants from the BBSRC, MRC, FAO and Industry. Current projects include: (a) the molecular mechanisms of lipolysis, and amylase action on starch and starch-rich edible plants; and (b) the physiological mechanisms by which cell wall polysaccharides (e.g. cereal β-glucans, legume galactomannans) inhibit macronutrient bioaccessibility and digestion, and attenuate postprandial glycaemia, insulinaemia and gut hormone profiles (e.g. GIP). These mechanistic studies are of importance in evaluating the role of carbohydrates in the management and prevention of cardio-metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. An improved mechanistic insight of plant polysaccharides will facilitate the rational design of novel food ingredients and food products with enhanced medical or nutritional benefits (i.e. functional foods).