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Biological significance of short-chain fatty acid metabolism by the intestinal microbiome

Puertollano, E., Kolida, S. and Yaqoob, P. (2014) Biological significance of short-chain fatty acid metabolism by the intestinal microbiome. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, 17 (2). pp. 139-144. ISSN 1363-1950

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To link to this item DOI: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000025

Abstract/Summary

Purpose of review Evidence suggests that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) derived from microbial metabolism in the gut play a central role in host homeostasis. The present review describes the current understanding and physiological implications of SCFAs derived from microbial metabolism of nondigestible carbohydrates. Recent findings Recent studies indicate a role for SCFAs, in particular propionate and butyrate, in the metabolic and inflammatory disorders such as obesity, diabetes and inflammatory bowel diseases, through the activation of specific G-protein-coupled receptors and modification of transcription factors. Established prebiotics, such as fructooligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides, which support the growth of Bifidobacteria, mainly mediate acetate production. Thus, recent identification of prebiotics which are able to stimulate the production of propionate and butyrate by benign saccharolytic populations in the colon is of interest. Summary Manipulation of saccharolytic fermentation by prebiotic substrates is beginning to provide information on structure–function relationships relating to the production of SCFAs, which have multiple roles in host homeostasis.

Item Type:Article
Refereed:Yes
Divisions:Life Sciences > School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy > Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences > Human Nutrition Research Group
ID Code:36170
Publisher:Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins

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