Synopsis

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

Tributyrin is a triglyceride that serves as a prodrug for butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid with known neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. The rationale for its use in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is primarily based on preclinical studies. Butyrate has been shown to promote histone acetylation, modulate microglial activation, and support synaptic plasticity—processes believed to be impaired in AD. Animal studies have demonstrated that tributyrin administration can improve cognitive function, reduce amyloid plaque burden, and attenuate neuroinflammation in mouse models of AD. For example, research published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience (2020) and Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (2019) reported that tributyrin improved memory performance and reduced pathological markers of AD in rodents.

However, direct human clinical trials investigating tributyrin for AD are lacking. Most available data are from in vitro or animal studies, with only limited evidence of safety and efficacy in humans for any neurological condition. Thus, while the mechanistic rationale is strong and preclinical evidence is encouraging, clinical validation in AD patients is insufficient. Overall, tributyrin’s use in Alzheimer's Disease is supported by promising but early scientific evidence, meriting a moderate evidence rating of 2 out of 5.

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