Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid produced in the colon through fermentation of dietary fibers by gut microbiota, has garnered scientific interest for its potential neuroprotective effects, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Preclinical studies have shown that butyric acid and its derivatives (notably sodium butyrate) can cross the blood-brain barrier and exert beneficial effects on brain health. The proposed mechanisms include inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs), which can lead to increased expression of neuroprotective genes, reduction of neuroinflammation, and mitigation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque formation, a hallmark of AD pathology. Animal studies have reported improvements in memory and cognitive function when butyrate is administered, as well as decreases in neuroinflammatory markers and oxidative stress. However, evidence in humans is currently very limited. There are few, if any, robust clinical trials directly testing butyric acid supplementation for Alzheimer's Disease in people. Most of the available data are from in vitro or animal models. Thus, while there is a growing scientific rationale and some promising preclinical evidence, clinical validation is lacking. More research, especially well-designed human trials, is needed before butyric acid can be recommended for AD treatment or prevention.

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