Fig. 1. (a) Schematic diagram of small intestine. (b) Hydrolysis of complex carbohydrates by α-glucosidase along the brush border of small intestine to release α-d-glucose. Basic modes of action of α-GIs: (c) competitive, (d) non-competitive, and (e) uncompetitive inhibition of α-glucosidase leading to decrease of postprandial blood glucose levels.