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Related Concept Videos

Microbes and Methanogenesis01:26

Microbes and Methanogenesis

Methanogenesis is a critical microbial process in anaerobic ecosystems responsible for the biological production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas and valuable biofuel. This metabolic pathway is primarily facilitated by methanogenic archaea, which thrive in anoxic environments such as wetlands, sediments, and animal gastrointestinal tracts. The absence of oxygen in these habitats prevents aerobic respiration, thereby favoring alternative biochemical pathways for organic matter degradation.In...
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Microbial Interactions: Mutualism

Mutualism is a symbiotic interaction in which all participating organisms benefit. These relationships can be obligate or facultative and are fundamental to ecosystem functions across diverse biological systems.Plant–Fungi MutualismOne well-known example is the association between plant roots and mycorrhizal fungi, such as Rhizophagus species. The fungal hyphae penetrate the root hairs and the epidermis, forming an extensive hyphal network that establishes a symbiotic association. Through this...
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Laxatives are primarily used to alleviate constipation, a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools. They work by various mechanisms to increase the volume or frequency of bowel movements. The primary modes of action of laxatives include increasing stool bulk, softening the stool, stimulating intestinal motility, and osmotically drawing water into the intestines.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Clinical Efficacy of an Innovative Multidimensional Traction Therapy in Moderate Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
07:12

Clinical Efficacy of an Innovative Multidimensional Traction Therapy in Moderate Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Published on: February 10, 2026

Methane and the gastrointestinal tract.

Ara B Sahakian1, Sam-Ryong Jee, Mark Pimentel

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.

Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|October 16, 2009
PubMed
Summary

Methane, a gas produced by gut bacteria, may actively influence gut function and is linked to constipation. This review explores methane

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Enteric fermentation produces gases like methane in the intestinal tract.
  • Methane, previously considered inert, is now recognized for its potential active effects on gut function.
  • This review focuses on methane's role in gastrointestinal health and disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the biogenesis and clinical associations of methane.
  • To examine evidence for methane's active role in gastrointestinal motility.
  • To explore potential therapeutic applications related to methane production.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on gastrointestinal gases, with a focus on methane.
  • Analysis of methane production, elimination, and its association with functional gastrointestinal symptoms.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Clinical Efficacy of an Innovative Multidimensional Traction Therapy in Moderate Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
07:12

Clinical Efficacy of an Innovative Multidimensional Traction Therapy in Moderate Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Published on: February 10, 2026

  • Examination of recent findings on the physical and biological effects of methane on gut function.

    • Main Results:

    • Methane is produced by enteric microflora through anaerobic fermentation of carbohydrates.
    • Between 30-62% of healthy individuals produce methane, which is expelled via flatus or respiration.
    • Emerging evidence links methane to functional constipation, suggesting an active role in gut motility.

    Conclusions:

    • Methane's significance extends beyond a simple byproduct of fermentation.
    • The review highlights methane's active role in gastrointestinal motility, particularly in constipation.
    • Understanding methane's biogenesis and effects may lead to novel therapeutic strategies.