Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds in Metabolic Syndrome: From Mechanistic Pathways to Precision Intervention

Metabolic syndrome represents a major global health concern, characterized by a constellation of metabolic abnormalities—including insulin resistance, central obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension—that collectively increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and premature mortality. Despite extensive advances in pharmacotherapy, current treatments primarily address single manifestations rather than the complex, interrelated pathophysiology underlying the syndrome. Emerging research underscores the critical role of dietary patterns and bioactive food components—such as polyphenols, fibers, peptides, and probiotics—in modulating key metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Recent studies reveal that these compounds can influence glucose regulation, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and gut microbiota composition, offering multi-target potential. Yet, important gaps persist in understanding their molecular targets, synergistic interactions, bioavailability, long-term safety, and the mechanisms translating cellular responses into clinical outcomes. Moreover, the heterogeneous results across studies and the absence of personalized intervention strategies highlight the need for integrated, mechanistic, and translational research in this field.This Research Topic aims to advance the understanding and application of functional foods and bioactive compounds as safe and effective tools for the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome. It seeks to bridge basic, clinical, and translational disciplines by elucidating molecular mechanisms, identifying biomarkers of efficacy, and strengthening clinical trial methodologies. Particular emphasis will be given to gut microbiota-mediated mechanisms, omics-based precision nutrition approaches, and the identification of synergistic interactions among bioactives. By consolidating mechanistic, clinical, and implementation evidence, this Research Topic strives to guide future dietary recommendations, improve public health strategies, and accelerate the incorporation of functional foods into evidence-based practice.This Research Topic encourages the submission contributing novel insights into the application of functional foods and bioactive compounds for metabolic syndrome management.• Mechanisms of functional foods and nutrients in glucose, lipid, and energy metabolism in metabolic syndrome • Remodeling of gut microbiota and metabolites by functional foods and nutrients • Regulation of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress by functional foods and nutrients • Randomized controlled trials of functional foods and nutrients in metabolic syndrome• Meta-analyses and systematic reviews of functional foods and nutrients in metabolic syndrome • Precision nutrition and personalized interventions with functional foods and nutrients in metabolic syndrome• Safety and potential adverse effects of functional foods and nutrients• Methodological innovations in functional food and nutrient research: Measurement tools, trial designs, and implementation science Topic editors: Zongyao Huyan, Lirong Xu, Shuaishuai Zhou Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83630/functional-foods-and-bioactive-compounds-in-metabolic-syndrome-from-mechanistic-pathways-to-precision-intervention