Abstract
This study investigated the interactions between Chrysanthemum morifolium cv. 'Chuju' ethanolic extract (CMCE) and three types of starch (CS: corn starch; WS: wheat starch; BS: buckwheat starch), and their effects on starch digestion and glycolipid metabolism in diabetic mice. The results showed that CMCE interacted with starch via non-covalent interactions, altering the short-range ordered structure and forming composite surfaces with more and smaller pores, thereby significantly increasing resistant starch (RS) content (P < 0.05). Molecular simulations showed that the interaction energies between apigenin (Ap), luteolin (Lu), quercetin (Qu), and starch were all negative, with the interaction strength and the number of hydrogen bonds following the order Ap < Lu < Qu, consistent with the number of active functional groups (hydroxyl groups) in each molecule. In vivo, high-dose WS-CMCE alleviated weight loss and increased pancreatic index in diabetic mice (P < 0.05). These findings provide a scientific basis for developing starch and starch-based foods containing CMCE.