The role of metabolites, fermentation products of gut microbiota, in gut-brain communication

Original article: "The Role of Short-Chain Fatty Acids From Gut Microbiota in Gut-Brain Communication" https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2020.00025 - REVIEW article, 2020

Results

SCFAs (Short-Chain Fatty Acids): Especially acetate, propionate, and butyrate are important metabolites of gut microbiota and may influence brain function and behavior.
Neurotransmitter Levels: SCFAs have been shown to regulate the levels of neurotransmitters involved in gut-brain communication and the expression of neurotrophic factors.
Effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS): SCFAs have been found to have positive effects on the CNS by maintaining brain-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, reducing neuroinflammation, and promoting neurogenesis.
Dysbiosis and Neurological Diseases: An imbalance in gut microbiota (dysbiosis) has been observed to be linked with many neurological and behavioral pathologies such as depression, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and autism spectrum disorder.

Quick Glossary

SCFA (Short-Chain Fatty Acids): Metabolites produced by the fermentation of dietary fibers by gut microbiota.
Acetate: The most common SCFA, involved in energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis.
Propionate: A type of SCFA that plays a role in immune functions and energy metabolism.
Butyrate: A SCFA with strong anti-inflammatory properties, supporting gut health and brain function.
Neurotrophic Factors: Proteins necessary for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons.

Comments and Recommendations

Potential of SCFAs: SCFAs have a broad impact on the central nervous system and thus may be a potential target for treating CNS disorders.
Need for Further Research: Given the neuroactive properties and neurogenesis-promoting effects of SCFAs, more research is needed to better understand their impact on brain health.
Dietary Interventions: Using SCFAs through dietary interventions to enhance brain functions and develop new strategies for treating psychological disorders is promising.

Reason for the Study

This study was conducted to investigate the role of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from gut microbiota in gut-brain communication. The significant role of gut microbiota in regulating metabolic, endocrine, and immune functions has been increasingly recognized in recent years. The study aims to explore how SCFAs might influence neuro-immunoendocrine regulation and impact brain physiology and behavior.

What Was Done?

Literature Review: A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to understand the effects of gut microbiota and SCFAs on the central nervous system (CNS).
Summary of Existing Knowledge: Current knowledge on how SCFAs may play a role in regulating neuro-immunoendocrine functions was summarized.
Animal and Human Studies: Both animal and human studies on the effects of SCFAs on the gut-brain axis were examined.
Evaluation of Physiological Effects: The potential effects of SCFAs on the gastrointestinal system, immune system, and central nervous system were assessed.