butyrate

• alias: butyrate, butyric acid
• 
• butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) produced in the colon by the fermentation of dietary fiber by gut bacteria. it is known for its critical role in gut health, anti-inflammatory properties, and metabolic benefits.

• chemical properties

  • molecular weight: 88.11 g/mol
  • density: 0.96 g/cm³
  • melting point: -5°C
  • boiling point: 163°C
  • solubility: soluble in water, ethanol, and ether
  • chemical formula: C₄H₈O₂

• usefulness in medicine

  • gut health: butyrate is a primary energy source for colonic cells, promoting gut lining integrity and reducing the risk of leaky gut.
  • anti-inflammatory: it modulates immune responses and reduces intestinal and systemic inflammation, which is beneficial in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colitis.
  • colon cancer prevention: butyrate induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells and reduces tumor-promoting inflammation.
  • ** metabolic health**: it improves insulin sensitivity, reduces blood sugar levels, and plays a role in obesity management.
  • brain health: butyrate exhibits neuroprotective effects by promoting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) production and reducing neuroinflammation.

• sources of butyrate

  • dietary: not directly present in foods but produced in the colon by fermentation of fibers found in:
    • resistant starch (e.g., green bananas, cooked and cooled rice).
    • dietary fiber (e.g., from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains).
  • fermented foods: small amounts in butter, cheese, and other dairy products.
  • supplements: sodium butyrate and calcium butyrate are available as supplements.

• antibacterial and antimicrobial activity

  • butyrate indirectly exhibits antimicrobial properties by lowering the colonic pH creating an unfavorable environment for pathogenic bacteria.
  • research highlights:
    • bacteria:
      • inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria like clostridium difficile and salmonella.
    • beneficial bacteria:
      • promotes the growth of bifidobacterium and lactobacillus.

• research links

  • butyrate and gut health
  • butyrate and anti-inflammatory effects