Yeast β-Glucans and PI3K/Akt Signaling in Obesity-Associated Type 2 Diabetes: Implications for Clinical Decision-Making

Abstract

Obesity/type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a major global health burden. Current management relies largely on pharmacological agents and insulin, while concerns regarding treatment-related adverse effects have increased interest in natural therapeutic alternatives and their evidence-based clinical evaluation. Yeast β-glucan is a natural polysaccharide with recognized biocompatibility and metabolic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Its modulation of PI3K/Akt signaling may influence glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and related metabolic responses. This review examines the mechanisms through which yeast β-glucan may improve obesity/T2DM based on evidence from animal models and clinical studies, with emphasis on PI3K/Akt-mediated effects and their implications for therapeutic decision-making. The synthesis provides a mechanistic basis for evaluating yeast β-glucan as a potential supportive intervention in obesity-associated T2DM management.