饲料在反刍动物瘤胃中的发酵过程，不仅会造成能量和氨态氮的损失,动物生产性能的降低，而且还对环境造成污染。皂苷是一类对反刍动物瘤胃发酵有调控作用的植物次级代谢产物。本文主要综述了皂苷的化学结构、分布和存在形式及其对反刍动物瘤胃发酵和生产性能影响的最新研究进展，为我国开展皂苷作为反刍动物瘤胃发酵调控添加剂的研究提供参考。

Feed fermentation in rumen can cause the loss of energy and ammonia nitrogen, the reduction of animal performance, and the environment pollution. Saponin is a type of plant secondary metabolite, which contributes to the modulation of rumen fermentation. This paper reviewed the chemical structures, distribution and forms of saponins, as well as recent research advances on its effects on rumen fermentation and performance. The review can provide references for further researches on using saponins as additives in modulation of rumen fermentation in China.［Chinese Journal of Animal Nutrition, 2010，22（6）:1515-1522］