Short-chain fatty acids: role in metabolic disorders

Abstract

The article presents research data on the role of short‑chain fatty acids in the pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of metabolic disorders. The brief description of the main short‑chain fatty acids — acetate, butyrate and propionate and the connection of their production with bacterial strains of the intestinal microbiome is given. The data on changes in the level of acetate, butyrate and propionate in feces and blood depending on body weight in animals and humans are presented. The mechanism of using by these fatty acids of such signaling pathways as interaction with receptors of fatty acids 2 and 3, inhibition of histone deacetylases to influence various metabolic processes and energy metabolism is described in detail. Their interaction on GLP‑1 and YY peptide as a result of interaction with enteroendocrine L‑cells of the intestine is described separately, which has an effect on appetite and, accordingly, food intake. The effect of basic short‑chain fatty acids on intestinal permeability is also described, which is important for the increased penetration of lipopolysaccharides of gram‑negative bacteria from the intestine into the bloodstream. The most important role of short‑chain fatty acids in the development of inflammatory processes, including low grade inflammation characteristic of metabolically associated diseases is indicated. The data of studies describing the study of the role of acetate, butyrate and propionate in non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction are presented. The results of studies both in animals and in humans on the use of direct administration of acetate, butyrate and propionate and factors that enhance their production to influence metabolic and inflammatory processes are also described.