MicroRNA-mediated mechanisms in whole grain consumption for preventing type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background

Whole grains emerge preventive or ameliorative effects on type 2 diabetes mellitus as one of the staple foods with abundant polyphenols and dietary fiber. However, there is currently no systematic review elucidating the metabolic mechanisms associated with whole-grain regulation of blood glucose metabolism based on novel disease marker microRNAs.

Scope and approach

The present paper systematically reviewed the metabolic mechanisms of whole grain for blood glucose regulation based on microRNA. In addition to the conventional mechanisms, including insulin resistance, inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin signaling, we focused on the potential mechanisms of whole grains and their phytochemicals in modulating type 2 diabetes mellitus through microRNA.

Key findings and conclusions

Whole grains and their phytochemicals could mediate different miRNAs to improve diabetes by intervening with different targets, such as glycolipid metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress and gut microbial. This work would enrich our understanding of whole grains improving type 2 diabetes mellitus and promote the consumption of whole grains.