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The Immunomodulatory Functions of Butyrate

Authors :
Gail A. Cresci
Mohamed Tausif Siddiqui
Source :
Journal of Inflammation Research
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
Informa UK Limited, 2021.

Abstract

The gastrointestinal (GI) system contains many different types of immune cells, making it a key immune organ system in the human body. In the last decade, our knowledge has substantially expanded regarding our understanding of the gut microbiome and its complex interaction with the gut immune system. Short chain fatty acids (SCFA), and specifically butyrate, play an important role in mediating the effects of the gut microbiome on local and systemic immunity. Gut microbial alterations and depletion of luminal butyrate have been well documented in the literature for a number of systemic and GI inflammatory disorders. Although a substantial knowledge gap exists requiring the need for further investigations to determine cause and effect, there is heightened interest in developing immunomodulatory therapies by means of reprogramming of gut microbiome or by supplementing its beneficial metabolites, such as butyrate. In the current review, we discuss the role of endogenous butyrate in the inflammatory response and maintaining immune homeostasis within the intestine. We also present the experimental models and human studies which explore therapeutic potential of butyrate supplementation in inflammatory conditions associated with butyrate depletion.

Details

ISSN :
11787031
Volume :
14
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Journal of Inflammation Research
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....f6146902edff494430451a4d673c7f81
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.2147/jir.s300989