Research Progress in Regulation of Allergic Diseases by Short-Chain Fatty Acids

Abstract

Gut microbiota-derived metabolites play vital roles in the regulation of host-gut microbiota mutualism, gut homeostasis and the pathogenesis of multiple human diseases. Fermentation of indigestible dietary fibers by gut microbiota produces a variety of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) consisting mainly of acetate, propionate and butyrate. Despite high concentrations of SCFAs in the gut, it has been reported in a large number of studies that SCFAs are involved in the onset and development of multiple diseases, including colitis, diabetes mellitus, hepatic steatosis, and obesity. Recent studies including our work found that SCFAs regulates allergic immune reactions and the pathogenesis of allergic diseases via their action on allergic effector immune cells, including T helper 2 (Th2) cells, type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2), eosinophils, mast cells and basophils. Herein, we reviewed the association of SCFAs with human allergic diseases, their role in regulating the animal model of allergic diseases and the effects of different SCFAs in regulating the functions of allergic effectors cells and the underlying mechanisms, aiming to provide research clues for in-depth investigation in the role played by SCFAs in regulating various allergic diseases.