Short-chain fatty acid production pathway

The short-chain fatty acid production pathway refers to the series of biochemical reactions carried out primarily by anaerobic bacteria in the human large intestine that convert indigestible dietary fibers and resistant starches into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), mainly acetate, propionate, and butyrate. These SCFAs are produced through several distinct microbial fermentation pathways involving different substrates such as acetyl-CoA, succinyl-CoA, 2‑oxoglutarate, and L‑lysine. The resulting SCFAs play crucial roles in host physiology including serving as energy sources for colonocytes; regulating immune responses; maintaining intestinal barrier function; influencing hormone secretion such as growth hormone via GPR41/43 activation; modulating brain function through the gut-brain axis; and potentially affecting systemic inflammation and metabolic health. Alterations in SCFA production have been implicated in various diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity/metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative conditions via altered gut-brain signaling pathways, and colorectal cancer risk modulation.

Other names

SCFA production pathwayShort-chain fatty acid biosynthesisGut microbial fermentation of fiber (context-dependent)