Lycium barbarum polysaccharide regulates serum metabolites in type 2 diabetic patients with the metabolomics-based approach of GC-TOF-MS

• Innovative Application of LBP in Nutrition • Our study introduces the use of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) in precision nutrition, demonstrating its ability to modulate serum metabolites specifically in type 2 diabetes patients. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize tailored dietary interventions for metabolic health. • Advanced Analysis and Clinical Significance • By employing an advanced GC-TOF-MS platform, our research has meticulously examined and significantly regulated 24 serum metabolites influenced by LBP, particularly affecting glutamine and glutamate metabolism. This work provides strong clinical evidence that is scientifically robust, setting a new standard for dietary therapy research. • Novel Metabolic Regulation Insights • Our findings offer fresh insights into LBP's role as a natural modulator of metabolic homeostasis, which is crucial for precision nutrition targeting specific health conditions. This contributes to the growing body of knowledge on natural food supplements in metabolic regulation. • Shaping the Future of Food Science • The study's focus on type 2 diabetic patients and the discovery of LBP's therapeutic potential suggest a significant shift in future food research. It points towards the development of food products that harness natural macromolecules for health promotion, potentially transforming the landscape of nutritional therapy. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) has displayed beneficial effects against type 2 diabetes (T2D), such as reducing blood glucose and lipids. We utilized a metabolomics method to explore the effects of LBP on the regulation of diabetes. Twenty T2D patients were included and provided with LBP (300 mg/d) for 3 months. LBP reduced the fasting blood glucose levels of participants after 3 months ( P = 0.057) and significantly improved serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) levels. In addition, LBP significantly regulated 24 serum metabolites, and the following KEGG pathway analysis indicated that LBP primarily affected glutamine and glutamate metabolism. Overall, LBP consumption influenced serum metabolites and displayed hypoglycemic effects by regulating the metabolic pathway modulating glutamine and glutamate.