Regulation of the Notch signaling pathway by functional foods for intestinal homeostasis: from mechanistic insights to targeted therapies

The Notch signaling pathway, an evolutionarily conserved mechanism, plays a critical role in regulating the fate of intestinal epithelial cells by modulating processes including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of this pathway has been linked to a range of intestinal disorders and colorectal cancer. Recent research indicates that functional foods, which encompass polyphenols, dietary fibers, unsaturated fatty acids, and probiotics, may have the capacity to modulate the Notch signaling pathway. These compounds exert their effects by regulating receptor expression, modulating signal transduction, altering target gene expression, and interacting with gut microbiota, thereby indirectly influencing Notch activity. This review examines the critical role of the Notch signaling pathway in maintaining intestinal health and explores the potential of functional foods to enhance this pathway, thereby promoting gut health and preventing intestinal diseases. It highlights the therapeutic potential of functional foods by integrating insights from molecular, cellular, and microbiota research. Future research should explore the effects of bioactive compounds, personalized nutrition based on genetic and microbial profiles, and omics interdisciplinary methods to optimize functional foods for gut health. These advancements could lead to precision nutrition strategies for preventing and treating intestinal diseases.