Host metabolic pathways related to amino acid metabolism and short-chain fatty acid production

The term "Host metabolic pathways related to amino acid metabolism and short-chain fatty acid production" refers to the integrated biochemical network where host physiological processes intersect with gut microbial activity. In this metabolic axis, dietary and endogenous amino acids, as well as complex carbohydrates, are processed by the intestinal microbiota into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)—such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate—and various nitrogenous metabolites (PMC10103706). These metabolites serve as critical signaling molecules, interacting with host G-protein coupled receptors like FFAR2 (GPR43) and FFAR3 (GPR41) to regulate insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and systemic energy expenditure (PMID 24328737). Additionally, amino acid-derived products like indolepropionic acid (IPA) act as metabolic regulators that enhance gut barrier integrity and modulate immune responses (PMID 32048965). Dysregulation of these interconnected pathways is a hallmark of several chronic conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease (MDPI, 2024). While this entry describes a broad physiological system rather than a single druggable molecular target, it represents a significant focus of therapeutic research into microbiome-targeted interventions, prebiotics, and postbiotic supplementation designed to restore metabolic balance.

Other names

Host-microbe metabolic axisAmino acid fermentation and SCFA signalingEnteric metabolic pathwaysGut-derived metabolite signaling network

Modulation of host physiology through the activation of G-protein coupled receptors (specifically FFAR2, FFAR3, and GPR109A) and the inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs) by microbial metabolites derived from the fermentation of amino acids and dietary fiber.