Intestinal lipogenesis: how carbs turn on triglyceride production in the gut

Purpose of review To review recent evidence for the role of carbohydrates in the promotion of de novo lipogenesis and lipoprotein secretion from the intestine. Recent findings The consumption of diets rich in carbohydrates have been shown to promote elevations in circulating lipids. In particular, the consumption of monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose, have been shown to induce increases in intestinal de novo lipogenesis, as well as be used as a substrate for the synthesis of triglycerides and lipoprotein export in the form of chylomicrons. Recently, various systematic reviews have analyzed the relative contribution of dietary fructose to intestinal lipogenesis. Although, there remains controversy within the literature, the body of evidence supports lipogenic effects of high fructose diets. In addition, alterations in markers of de novo lipogenesis within the jejunum of patients with insulin resistance may explain the alterations in their postprandial lipid profile. Summary Recent evidence supports the contribution of dietary carbohydrates to intestinal lipogenesis and lipoprotein secretion; however, further research is required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying this complex process.