Analysis and Identification of Short-Chain Fatty Acid Postbiotics by Gas Chromatography

Abstract

Gut microbes, which are extensively distributed in the host body, create short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs, also known as organic fatty acids, are typically lower than six carbon atoms in length. Acetate, propionate, and butyrate are the greatest examples of significant SCFA since they are produced and absorbed in the colon before being delivered to the liver through the hepatic vein. Acetate is metabolized largely in the periphery, butyrate primarily in the intestinal epithelium, and propionate primarily in the liver. SCFAs have an impact on a range of cell types, including immune system cells and epithelial cells, via activating G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and inhibiting histone deacetylase. Given the connection between changes in SCFA concentrations and the formation of diseases, techniques to quantify these acids in diverse biological samples are essential. The present procedure outlines a pretreatment approach for extracting SCFA from any biological material prior to using direct injection gas chromatography for analysis and identification. The fundamental benefit of employing this gas chromatography approach is that it provides an affordable, efficient, and repeatable method for measuring SCFAs in any biological material.