Exploring the role of type 3 resistant starch crystalline polymorphs in modulating gut health and alleviating inflammation in colitis.

Type 3 Resistant starch (RS3) has garnered increasing attention for its potential therapeutic effects in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as colitis. However, the impact of different crystalline forms of RS3 on the alleviation of colitis remains unclear. This study examined A-type and B-type crystalline RS3 microparticles (ARS and BRS) derived from debranched waxy maize starch. BRS exhibited higher crystallinity and RS content than ARS by around 8% and 11%, respectively. Treatment with ARS and BRS led to a 12.5-31.1% reduction in cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) compared to NS, while improving colon morphology. Notably, BRS more effectively promoted Lactobacillus growth, suppressed harmful Patescibacteria, and increased SCFA levels (by 5.1 μmol/g) compared to ARS. The findings underscore the significance of RS3's crystalline structure in its anti-inflammatory potential, suggesting it as a promising strategy for colitis management and offering insights into RS's benefits for gut health.