Origins and production of butyric acid
The neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer And Parkinson, also appear to be influenced by the intestine. The microbiota, that is, the set of microorganisms that populate our intestine, plays a fundamental role in communication with the brain through the microbiota-gut-brain axis. When this ecosystem is altered (dysbiosis), the production of metabolites beneficial to the body’s well-being also changes, promoting inflammation and contributing to the development of neurological disorders.
Role of butyric acid in the microbiome, cell signaling, and the immune system
In the colon, butyric acid supports the intestinal cell function, regulates the cellular differentiation, modulates inflammation and helps prevent microbiome imbalances. It acts as signaling molecule, activating receptors such as HCA2 And PPAR, fundamental for the fat metabolism and for processes that can influence the growth of tumor cells. It also plays a key role in regulation of immunity, promoting the action of the regulatory T lymphocytes and helps control chronic inflammation. Clinical studies show positive effects in diseases such as colitis, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disorders.
Effects on the brain, metabolism, cardiovascular system and cancer
Research shows a link between butyric acid and brain health: can affect anxiety, stress and pathologies such as Alzheimer, Parkinson, autism And depression, thanks to its action on mitochondria, epigenetics And microbiome homeostasis. He is also involved in the energy metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity And weight control. In animal studies it reduces atherosclerotic lesions and may help regulate blood pressure. Our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms is likely to increase as the omics technologies, in particular the metabolomics. Since butyric acid is a byproduct of fiber fermentation, this may explain why the high-fiber diets They help protect against colorectal cancer, obesity, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other diseases.
For further information:
Borycka-Kiciak K, et al. Butyric acid – a well-known molecule revisited. Prz Gastroenterol. 2017;12(2):83-89. doi: 10.5114/pg.2017.68342.
Bourassa MW, et al. Butyrate, neuroepigenetics and the gut microbiome: Can a high fiber diet improve brain health? Neurosci Lett. 2016 Jun 20;625:56-63. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.02.009.
Morrison DJ, Preston T. Formation of short chain fatty acids by the gut microbiota and their impact on human metabolism. Gut Microbes. 2016 May 3;7(3):189-200. doi: 10.1080/19490976.2015.1134082.
Ríos-Covián D, et al. Intestinal Short Chain Fatty Acids and their Link with Diet and Human Health. Front Microbiol. 2016 Feb 17;7:185. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00185.
Silva YP, et al. The Role of Short-Chain Fatty Acids From Gut Microbiota in Gut-Brain Communication. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2020 Jan 31;11:25. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00025.