Starch source influences dietary glucose generation at the mucosal α-glucosidase level

Abstract

Background: α-Amylase was thought to be the sole enzyme that determines starch digestion rate. Mucosal α-glucosidases were considered to simply convert post-α-amylase dextrins to glucose. Results: The mucosal α-glucosidases can digest a wide range of α-limit dextrin molecules and digest starches from various sources differently. Conclusion: Starch chemical structure drives the digestion difference at the brush-border area. Significance: The findings provide new insight into controlling the glycemic response.