The Immunomodulatory Functions of Butyrate

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 supple-menting 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 asso-ciated with butyrate depletion.

Automated summary

The gastrointestinal system is a key immune organ system in the human body, with various immune cells playing important roles. Short chain fatty acids, particularly butyrate, are crucial in mediating the effects of the gut microbiome on local and systemic immunity. While gut microbial alterations and depletion of butyrate have been linked to inflammatory disorders, further research is needed to understand the cause and effect, with a focus on developing immunomodulatory therapies involving butyrate supplementation.