B Vitamins and Their Roles in Gut Health

B vitamins act as coenzymes in a myriad of cellular reactions. These include energy production, methyl donor generation, neurotransmitter synthesis, and immune functions. Due to the ubiquitous roles of these vitamins, their deficiencies significantly affect the host's metabolism. Recently, novel roles of B vitamins in the homeostasis of gut microbial ecology and intestinal health continue to be unravelled. This review focuses on the functional roles and biosynthesis of B vitamins and how these vitamins influence the growth and proliferation of the gut microbiota. We have identified the gut bacteria that can produce vitamins, and their biosynthetic mechanisms are presented. The effects of B vitamin deficiencies on intestinal morphology, inflammation, and its effects on intestinal disorders are also discussed.

Automated summary

B vitamins play crucial roles as coenzymes in various cellular reactions, such as energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis. Recent studies have revealed novel functions of B vitamins in gut microbial ecology and intestinal health. This review highlights the functional roles, biosynthesis, and effects of B vitamins on gut microbiota growth and proliferation, as well as their impact on intestinal morphology, inflammation, and disorders.