Purdue Research Foundation

Rush University Medical Center

Ali Keshavarzian

Bruce Hamaker

Sander De Kivit

Genyi Zhang

Devin J Rose

Mahesh Venktachalam

An assay and a method for identifying a prebiotic to treat a subject in need thereof to promote intestinal barrier integrity or to blunt an inflammatory response are provided.

Screening assay for choice of prebiotic to prevent/treat gastrointestinal and systemic diseases

Compositions which provide slowly digestible starch and a source of fermentable dietary fiber. Microparticles in which starch is entrapped in a crosslinked matrix to provide dietary benefit. Such microparticles are used to deliver glucose to targeted regions in the small intestine for beneficial physiological effects, and fermentable dietary fiber to the colon to improve colon health and to treat diseases of the colon. Microparticles can be employed to selectively deliver fermentable dietary fiber to targeted portions of the colon. A method for making the microparticles is provided as well as methods for using the microparticles for controlled digestion of starch on ingestion in the small intestine and methods for using the microparticles to deliver dietary fiber. The microparticles with entrapped starch provide a low glycemic index and extended glucose release in food products and food ingredients. The microparticles with entrapped starch can, in particular, be used as an ingredient in foods that are to be cooked.

Slowly digesting starch and fermentable fiber

Growing community of inventors

Evanston, IL, United States of America

Ali Keshavarzian