Prebiotic potential of oligosaccharides: A focus on xylan derived oligosaccharides

Xylan is available abundantly in nature as a major constituent of hemicellulose, a component of lignocellulosic biomass. Agricultural wastes such as straw, stalk, cob, hull, husk, bagasse and pulp of hardwood represent a major source of xylan. Xylooligosaccharides (XOS), the hydrolysis product of xylan is substrate for colonic commensal bacterial population, acting as potential prebiotic. Its fermentation produces short chain fatty acids, improves gut epithelial health and regulates metabolic process. These oligosaccharides possess bound phenolics including ferulic acid, coumaric acid, thus imparting additional antioxidant effect and immunomodulatory activity. This paper deals with xylan based oligosaccharides with an emphasis placed on the need of oligosaccharides and discusses in detail the health benefits of xylooligosaccharides.

Graphical Explanation of physiological effects delivered by Prebiotics Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide