Short-chain fatty acid production pathways in the gut microbiome (SCFA pathways)

Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production pathways in the gut microbiome represent a critical metabolic interface between the host and its resident microbiota [NIH]. These pathways involve the anaerobic fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrates, such as dietary fibers and resistant starches, primarily into acetate, propionate, and butyrate [MDPI]. These metabolites serve as essential energy sources for colonocytes and act as signaling molecules that regulate immune homeostasis, gut barrier integrity, and systemic metabolism [Frontiers]. Dysregulation of these pathways is linked to various conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, obesity, and neurodegenerative disorders [PubMed]. Therapeutic strategies target these pathways through the use of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to restore healthy SCFA levels and modulate host physiology [NIH]. By activating G protein-coupled receptors and inhibiting histone deacetylases, SCFAs exert widespread anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits [NIH]. This target is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of microbiome-based precision medicine [Nature Microbiology].

Other names

Microbial SCFA biosynthesisGut SCFA pathwaysFermentation pathways of the gut microbiotaSCFA production

Modulation of microbial composition to enhance SCFA-producing taxa, provision of fermentable substrates for microbial metabolism, direct supplementation of SCFA metabolites, activation of G protein-coupled receptors (GPR41, GPR43, GPR109A), and inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs) [NIH, PubMed].