Research progress on the role of short-chain fatty acids in the treatment of ulcerative colitis / 中华临床营养杂志

ABSTRACT

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), as the main energy source for colonic epithelial cells, are becoming one of the important nutritional agents in the treatment of E1 (proctitis) and E2 (left-sided) subtypes of ulcerative colitis. To date, the therapeutic effects of topical SCFAs as primary or adjuvant induction therapy have been studied. However, the specific mechanism of action for SCFAs in the pathogenesis and progression of ulcerative colitis needs further investigation. High-quality prospective studies are required to verify current opinions on the selection of SCFA mixtures and the choice of topical or systemic routes of administration. In addition, SCFA is considered as a promising agent to prevent the occurrence and progression of ulcerative colitis-related colorectal cancer. Therefore, the optimal timing to integrate SCFAs into the treatment of ulcerative colitis represents another future research direction.