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Updated: Aug 27, 2025
Author Spotlight: Gut Microbiome-Lung Tissue Communication Through Short-Chain Fatty Acid Analysis
Published on: June 21, 2024
Short-chain fatty acids-microbiota crosstalk in the coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
Jakub Włodarczyk1,2, Bartłomiej Czerwiński3, Jakub Fichna3
1Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland. jakub.wlodarczyk@stud.umed.lodz.pl.
Abstract:
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) still remains a major challenge to the health-care systems worldwide, inciting ongoing search for pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions which could benefit patients already infected with SARS-CoV-2 or at increased risk thereof. Although SARS-CoV-2 primarily affects the respiratory system, it may also infect other organs and systems, including gastrointestinal tract, where it results in microbial dysbiosis. There is an emerging understanding of the role the gut microbiota plays in maintaining immune homeostasis, both inside the gastrointestinal tract and beyond (i.e. through gut-lung and gut-brain axes). One family of compounds with recognized immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties are short chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs are believed that they have a protective effect in case of gastrointestinal diseases. Moreover, they are responsible for maintaining proper intestinal barrier and they take part in relevant immune functions. This review presents mechanisms of action and potential benefits of SCFA-based probiotics and direct SCFA supplementation as a strategy to support immune function amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Insights
Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) may support immune function during COVID-19. Supplementation and probiotics could mitigate SARS-CoV-2 effects on the gut microbiota and overall immunity.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, presents global health challenges beyond respiratory symptoms.
- SARS-CoV-2 infection can disrupt the gut microbiota, leading to dysbiosis and impacting immune homeostasis via gut-lung and gut-brain axes.
- Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining systemic immune balance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms and potential benefits of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in supporting immune function during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To explore the role of SCFA-based probiotics and direct supplementation as interventions.
- To highlight SCFAs' impact on gut health and immune response in the context of SARS-CoV-2.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on SCFAs, gut microbiota, and COVID-19.
- Analysis of existing research on SCFA properties and their interaction with the immune system.
- Synthesis of information regarding SCFA-based interventions for SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals.
Main Results:
- Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) possess recognized immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
- SCFAs are vital for maintaining intestinal barrier integrity and supporting immune functions.
- Emerging evidence suggests SCFAs may offer protective effects against gastrointestinal disturbances caused by infections like COVID-19.
Conclusions:
- SCFA-based strategies, including probiotics and direct supplementation, show promise for supporting immune function in COVID-19 patients.
- Targeting the gut microbiota with SCFAs could be a valuable non-pharmaceutical intervention.
- Further research into SCFA supplementation is warranted to confirm benefits for COVID-19 management.
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