Themed collection Food & Function Review Articles 2024
Targeting the gut–skin axis by food-derived active peptides ameliorates skin photoaging: a comprehensive review
During skin photoaging, some FDAPs can be absorbed by the gut, pass through the blood barrier, and act on the skin. Some FDAPs can regulate gut microbiota, indirectly mitigating the effects of photoaging.
Food Funct., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO04202F
Bioactive compounds regulate appetite through the melanocortin system: a review
The melanocortin system is regulated by long-term and short-term regulatory hormones and nutrients. Bioactive compounds influence appetite through multiple pathways: central nervous system, peripheral hormones, and intestinal microbiota.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 11811-11833
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO04024D
Exploring the potential of sorghum with reference to its bioactivities, physicochemical properties and potential health benefits
Sorghum, belonging to the Poaceae family, is a widely consumed grain, particularly in Africa.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 11847-11864
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO04128C
Effects of vegetarian diets on blood lipids, blood glucose, and blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Our systematic review and meta-analyses showed that vegetarian diets significantly reduced blood lipids and blood glucose and had null effects on blood pressure.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 11834-11846
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO03449J
Review on mechanisms of hypoglycemic effects of compounds from highland barley and potential applications
The value and mechanism of highland barley in the prevention of diabetes and its application in food products.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 11365-11382
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00940A
Correlation between vitamin D metabolic pathway-related gene polymorphisms and cardiovascular disease
Polymorphisms in key genes in the vitamin D metabolic pathway affect susceptibility to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and play potential roles in the pathogenesis of CVD.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 11342-11364
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO03234A
Effect of fermented soybean on metabolic outcomes, anthropometric indices, and body composition: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
Food Funct., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02668C
Functional yogurt: a comprehensive review of its nutritional composition and health benefits
Functional yogurt contains a variety of nutritional components that offer numerous health benefits, with limitations that can potentially be overcome.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 10927-10955
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO03671A
Regulation of redox enzymes by nutraceuticals: a review of the roles of antioxidant polyphenols and peptides
Several nutraceutical compounds, such as polyphenols and peptides, modulate the enzymatic antioxidant defence system, providing an avenue for the development of multifunctional functional foods.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 10956-10980
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO03549F
Beyond flavor: the versatile roles of eugenol in health and disease
Emerging evidence highlights that eugenol exhibits significant biological activities across various conditions, suggesting it is a promising nutritional supplement with both flavoring properties and therapeutic potential.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 10567-10581
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02428A
Biological effects and mechanisms of dietary chalcones: latest research progress, future research strategies, and challenges
Chalcones are widely distributed in food and have multiple biological activities; there are limitations and drawbacks in the application of dietary chalcones in food; future research strategies and key issues for dietary chalcones.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 10582-10599
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO03618B
A proposed framework to establish in vitro–in vivo relationships using gastric digestion models for food research
Proposal of an in vitro–in vivo relationship (IVIVR) framework for food digestion research that serves as a tool to evaluate and improve a specific in vitro approach in simulating in vivo gastric digestion process.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 10233-10261
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05663E
Vinegar – a beneficial food additive: production, safety, possibilities, and applications from ancient to modern times
Vinegar is a natural product derived from fruits or grains after being subjected to food fermentation processes.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 10262-10282
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02377C
Recent advances in dietary polyphenols (DPs): antioxidant activities, nutrient interactions, delivery systems, and potential applications
The antioxidant capacity of DPs is determined by internal chemical structures and environmental factors. Green delivery systems help improve their bioactivities and bioavailability, providing great options for personalized food and nutrition.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 10213-10232
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02111H
Effect of whole grain and fiber consumption on chronic liver diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
The aim of the present study was to conduct a meta-analysis of observational studies to explore the latest evidence on the influence of whole grain and fiber consumption on total chronic liver diseases.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 9707-9717
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO03077J
Exploring honey's potential as a functional food for natural sleep aid
This study explores honey as a natural remedy for sleep disorders, highlighting its unique properties and soothing effects. The findings suggest that honey may improve sleep quality without drugs, though more research is needed on its holistic use.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 9678-9689
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02013H
The phytochemical composition and unexplored potential of Australian native plants for application in physical activity-related muscle recovery and inflammation: a literature review
Native plants are adaptable in various environmental conditions in part through the production of unique phytochemicals which may have beneficial effects on human health.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 9718-9733
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02067G
Food nanotechnology: opportunities and challenges
In order to achieve rapid development of the food industry, this review focuses on the preparation of food nanoparticles and the progress of research on improving quality and food industry development and discusses the current challenges faced.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 9690-9706
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02119C
Chemistry, bioactivities, structure–activity relationship, biosynthesis and metabolism of prenylated flavonoids in Moraceae plants
Prenylated flavonoids have garnered interests due to the industrial applications and bioactivities. It is imperative to explore their metabolism and synthesis, thereby furnishing foundation for pharmacokinetic and clinical research endeavors.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 9598-9631
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02688H
The therapeutic effect and possible mechanisms of alginate oligosaccharide on metabolic syndrome by regulating gut microbiota
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a disease condition incorporating the abnormal accumulation of various metabolic components, including obesity, insulin resistance and abnormal glucose tolerance, hypertension, atherosclerosis, or dyslipidemia.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 9632-9661
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02802C
Nisin-relevant antimicrobial peptides: synthesis strategies and applications
Nisin have been successfully utilized as preservatives in the food industry and have evolved into a paradigm for understanding the genetic structure, expression, and control of genes created by lantibiotics.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 9662-9677
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05619H
Emerging mycotoxins and preventive strategies related to gut microbiota changes: probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics – a systematic review
Recent studies highlight the role of gut microbiota in diseases, showing that probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics (PPSP) offer health benefits by modulating the microbiome, potentially contributing to improved disease outcomes and overall well-being.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8998-9023
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO01705F
Recent research on the physicochemical properties and biological activities of quinones and their practical applications: a comprehensive review
Quinones represent a class of crude organic compounds ubiquitously distributed in nature.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8973-8997
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02600D
Recent advances in nanodelivery systems of resveratrol and their biomedical and food applications: a review
The recent advances of resveratrol nano delivery systems, the advantages and potential limitations, as well as their associated applications in biomedical and food.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8629-8643
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO03892K
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials: effects of mediterranean diet and low-fat diet on liver enzymes and liver fat content of NAFLD
From the RCTs, the MD and LFD have similar effects on improving liver enzymes and liver fat content in NAFLD for the short term.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8248-8257
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO01461H
The effects of caffeine on pancreatic diseases: the known and possible mechanisms
Caffeine is a common component of coffee, tea, soft drinks and energy drinks. This review summarized the recent studies about its effects on pancreatic diseases and related mechanisms.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8238-8247
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02994A
A review of the biological activities of lactoferrin: mechanisms and potential applications
This paper reviews the biological activities of lactoferrin.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8182-8199
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO02083A
Association between dietary vitamin C intake/blood level and risk of digestive system cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies
This study finds that vitamin C intake could significantly reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal cancers, especially OPE, gastric, and colon cancers, suggesting that the impact of vitamin C may be more crucial than previously predicted.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8217-8237
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00350K
The regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism through the interaction of dietary polyphenols and polysaccharides via the gut microbiota pathway
Interactions of polyphenols and polysaccharides regulate glycolipid metabolism through the gut microbiota, which is achieved through the regulation of metabolites, intestinal barrier function, and signaling pathways.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 8200-8216
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00585F
Let food be your medicine – dietary fiber
Dietary intake of the right amount of dietary fiber can reduce the risk of disease and safeguard human health.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 7733-7756
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05641D
Effects of glyphosate exposure on intestinal microbiota, metabolism and microstructure: a systematic review
Effects of glyphosate exposure on gut.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 7757-7781
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00660G
Insights into chemical components, health-promoting effects, and processing impact of golden chanterelle mushroom Cantharellus cibarius
Cantharellus cibarius (CC) is a edible mushroom with significant commercial potential due to its diverse components and bioactive functions.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 7696-7732
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00891J
Biomarkers of food intake and their relevance to metabolic syndrome
To assess diet and the risk of metabolic syndrome, this review highlights food bioactives that are correlated with dietary intake. In addition, these bioactives have shown to impact systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, among other.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 7271-7304
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00721B
An overview of 6-shogaol: new insights into its pharmacological properties and potential therapeutic activities
Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) has traditionally been used as a cooking spice and herbal medicine for treating nausea and vomiting.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 7252-7270
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04753A
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials on the health effects of chocolate enriched/fortified/supplemented with functional components
Bioactive enriched/fortified/supplemented chocolate.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6883-6899
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO01574F
The role of tetrahydrocurcumin in disease prevention and treatment
Tetrahydrocurcumin showed potential biological activities in neurologic, cardiovascular, respiratory, liver, metabolic, renal, skin and inflammatory diseases as well as cancer.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6798-6824
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05739A
Polyphenols in edible plant leaves: an overview of their occurrence and health properties
Edible plant leaves (EPLs) constitute a major renewable functional plant biomass available all year round, providing an essential source of polyphenols in the global diet.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6847-6882
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00509K
Comparative analysis of pectin and prebiotics on human microbiota modulation in early life stages and adults
The gut microbiota is essential in human health, influencing various physiological processes ranging from digestion and metabolism to immune function and mental health.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6825-6846
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO01231C
Milk fat globule membrane and its polar lipids: reviewing preclinical and clinical trials on cognition
Scheme of the potential use of MFGM as a dietary supplement on both infant and adult health.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6783-6797
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00659C
Advances in the composition, efficacy, and mimicking of human milk phospholipids
Phospholipids are the essential components of human milk. To provide a more scientific feeding method for infants, infant formulas should be formulated to close the phospholipids of human milk by adjusting raw and auxiliary ingredients.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6254-6273
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00539B
Nutraceuticals and dietary supplements: balancing out the pros and cons
While the market is full of different dietary supplements, in most countries, legislation is clear and strict towards these products, with severe limitations on their health claims.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6289-6303
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO01113A
Bioactive compounds and benefits of by-products of Amazon babassu oil production: potential for dietary supplement, biomedical and food applications
Babassu mesocarp flour is promising for application as biodegradable packaging and as an antioxidant for foods. Phytochemicals, antiparasitic and antibacterial activities and mesocarp flour were shown, but fungi and viruses can get more attention.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6232-6253
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO01594K
Intestinal absorption of bioactive oligopeptides: paracellular transport and tight junction modulation
Bioactive oligopeptides have gained increasing attention due to their diverse physiological functions, and these can be transported into the vasculature via transcellular and paracellular pathways.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6274-6288
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00529E
Biological fate, functional properties, and design strategies for oral delivery systems for cinnamaldehyde
The bio-efficacy and delivery systems of cinnamaldehyde and the underlying mechanisms are summarized and evaluated.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6217-6231
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00614C
Bioactive compounds of peanut skin in prevention and adjunctive treatment of chronic non-communicable diseases
The global prevalence of cancer continues to increase, so does its mortality.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 6304-6323
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00647J
Breakfast skipping and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular and cancer mortality among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies
The present systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to clarify the association between breakfast skipping and mortality outcomes.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 5703-5713
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05705D
Anti-hyperuricemia bioactive peptides: a review on obtaining, activity, and mechanism of action
The present work outlines the methods for preparing peptides from food proteins and elucidate their efficacy and mechanisms in combating hyperuricemia, supported by in vitro and in vivo evidence.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 5714-5736
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00760C
Emerging berries from the Brazilian Amazon and Atlantic Forest biomes: new sources of bioactive compounds with potential health benefits
Brazil has a broad geographic biodiversity spread across its six different biomes.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 5752-5784
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00182F
The effectiveness of probiotics as an adjunct therapy in patients under mechanical ventilation: an umbrella systematic review and meta-analysis
Probiotics' role in critically ill, mechanically ventilated patients is unclear; therefore, we conducted an umbrella systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify probiotics' effects on clinical outcomes.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 5737-5751
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04653B
Inhibitory effect of extracts from edible parts of nuts on α-amylase activity: a systematic review
The inhibitory effect of extracts from edible parts of nuts on α-amylase activity in vitro, including inhibition of human α-amylase by polyphenol-rich chestnut and almond skin extracts.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 5209-5223
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00414K
Effects of a low FODMAP diet on the symptom management of patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic umbrella review with the meta-analysis of clinical trials
Effect of low FODMAPs diet on symptoms of patients with irritable bowel syndrome.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 5195-5208
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO03717G
Unleashing the power of chlorogenic acid: exploring its potential in nutrition delivery and the food industry
In the contemporary era, heightened emphasis on health and safety has emerged as a paramount concern among individuals with food.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 4741-4762
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00059E
Medicinal and edible polysaccharides from ancient plants: extraction, isolation, purification, structure, biological activity and market trends of sea buckthorn polysaccharides
Sea buckthorn (Hippophae L.), a well-known medicinal and edible plant, is known as the “king of VC”.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 4703-4723
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04140A
Dietary fiber and polyphenols from whole grains: effects on the gut and health improvements
Cereal dietary fiber and polyphenols improve the intestinal environment and human health
Food Funct., 2024,15, 4682-4702
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00715H
Olive oil intake and cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies
Higher olive oil intake was linked to a decreased risk of CVD and stroke incidence and CVD and all-cause mortality.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 4668-4681
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05246J
Encapsulation of short-chain bioactive peptides (BAPs) for gastrointestinal delivery: a review
Majority of known bioactive peptides (BAPs) with antihypertensive, antidiabetic, antioxidant, among other activities, are short-chain aminoacid sequences (<10). To enhance their gastrointestinal bioavailability, BAPs are encapsulated, subject of our review.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3959-3979
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04195F
Effects of quercetin on the DNA methylation pattern in tumor therapy: an updated review
Quercetin reverses the expression of abnormal genes by regulating DNA methylation, and is an important regulator of gene transcription in tumorigenesis. The use of nanoscale delivery of quercetin increases its bioavailability in cancer therapy.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3897-3907
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO03831A
Extraction, purification, structural modification, activities and application of polysaccharides from different parts of mulberry
Extraction, purification, structural modification, activities and application of polysaccharides from different parts of mulberry were analyzed and discussed.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3939-3958
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05747J
Effect of steviol glycosides as natural sweeteners on glucose metabolism in adult participants
SGs as safe natural sweeteners, may yield significant improvement in glucose metabolism in adult participants when compared with the control.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3908-3919
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04695H
Potential neuroprotective benefits of plant-based fermented foods in Alzheimer's disease: an update on preclinical evidence
Preclinical evidence suggests that plant-based fermented foods possess promising potential for the management of AD through modulation of oxidative stress, synaptotoxicity, neuroinflammation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and amyloidogenic pathways.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3920-3938
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO03805J
Effectiveness of anthocyanin-containing foods and nutraceuticals in mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, and cardiovascular health-related biomarkers: a systematic review of animal and human interventions
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of chronic health disorders prevalent worldwide that claim millions of lives yearly.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3274-3299
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04579J
Dietary intake of different ratios of ARA/DHA in early stages and its impact on infant development
This article systematically reviewed the proportion of ARA and DHA in breast milk and formula among regions and lactation periods, and their impact on infant development and health.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3259-3273
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04629J
Screening, separation and identification of metal-chelating peptides for nutritional, cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications
Metal-chelating peptides, which form metal–peptide coordination complexes with various metal ions, can be used as biofunctional ingredients notably to enhance human health and prevent diseases.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3300-3326
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05765H
Efficacy of oats in dyslipidemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Background: In recent years, oats’ effect on lowering serum cholesterol has been recognized.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3232-3245
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04394K
Structural characteristics and biological activities of polysaccharides from barley: a review
Structural characteristics and biological activities of polysaccharides from barley (Hordeum vulgare L).
Food Funct., 2024,15, 3246-3258
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO05793C
Mechanisms of probiotic modulation of ovarian sex hormone production and metabolism: a review
Effects of the brain, liver, pancreas, and fat on ovarian sex hormone production through the gut.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 2860-2878
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04345B
Cell culture models for assessing the effects of bioactive compounds in common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum): a systematic review
Systematic review of studies on the biological effect of common buckwheat supplementation on cellular models.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 2799-2813
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4FO00202D
(Poly)phenol-related gut metabotypes and human health: an update
(Poly)phenol metabotyping as a tool for tailored nutrition advice. Created with https://BioRender.com.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 2814-2835
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO04338J
A review of the world's salt reduction policies and strategies – preparing for the upcoming year 2025
Salt reduction initiatives, intertwined with national health, requires long-term and collaborative efforts among governments, food enterprises, public health experts, and the public. It is imperative to explore more effective methods for salt reduction to attain the global goal.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 2836-2859
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO03352J
Edible insects as a source of biopeptides and their role in immunonutrition
Edible insect species are attracting the attention of the food industry and consumers in Western societies due to their high content and quality of protein, which is starting to be evaluated as source of peptides with immunomodulatory properties.
Food Funct., 2024,15, 2789-2798
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3FO03901C
About this collection
This themed collection features recent review articles published in Food & Function.