New prebiotics by ketone donation
Cate：News Center Time：2023-07-05
Highlights
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Disorder of the gut microbiome is related to progression of chronic inflammation-related gut diseases. Classical prebiotics do not show significant inhibition of these diseases; thus, new prebiotics are urgently needed.
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Poly-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), which increases 3-hydroxybutyrate (3HB) in the large intestinal lumen, can be used as a prebiotic to donate 3HB to microbiota.
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PHB alters the composition and restores the integrity of the microbiome [i.e., increases butyrate-producing bacteria and release of short-chain fatty acids, which activate regulatory T cells (Tregs), resulting in anti-inflammatory effects]. Although Tregs are activated in the gut epithelium, they can enter systemic circulation and may ease systemic chronic diseases.
Abstract
Integrity of the microbiome is an essential element for human gut health. 3-Hydroxybutyrate (3HB) secreted into the gut lumen has gained attention as a regulator of gut physiology, including stem cell expansion. In this opinion, I propose new prebiotics leading to gut health by use of a ketone (3HB) donor. When exogenous 3HB is supplied through ketone donation, it has the potential to markedly improve gut health by altering the gut microbiome and systemic metabolic status. Poly-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) donates 3HB and primarily influences microbiota, making it an effective prebiotic for improving the gut environment. Thus, exogenous 3HB donation to the lumen of the gut may aid gut health by maintaining the integrity of microbiome.
