konjac oligosaccharide

Konjac oligosaccharide (KOS) is a carbohydrate-based research compound and nutraceutical derived from the enzymatic or chemical degradation of konjac glucomannan, a polysaccharide found in the tubers of the *Amorphophallus konjac* plant. It is primarily studied for its laxative effects in the treatment of functional constipation, where it acts as an agonist of the 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 (5-HT4) receptor to stimulate colonic motility via the 5-HT4R/cAMP/PKA/p-CREB signaling pathway. Additionally, KOS has demonstrated potential as a prebiotic, an immunomodulator, and an anti-fatigue agent. Research also indicates that KOS possesses angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory properties, suggesting a role in the management of hypertension. While it is widely researched in the context of functional foods and supplements, it has not yet entered formal pharmaceutical clinical development programs.

Other names

KOSkonjac glucomannan oligosaccharide