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Cyclodextrins as Modulators of Gut Microbiota: Pharmaceutical Applications and Impact on Intestinal Health
Renata Maria Varut1, Mircea Sorin Ciolofan2, Maria Elena Veronica3
1Research Methodology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania.
Pharmaceutics
|June 27, 2025
Summary
Cyclodextrins (CDs) can positively alter gut bacteria, boosting beneficial microbes and short-chain fatty acids. This suggests CDs may act as both drug enhancers and prebiotics for gut health.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Science
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Cyclodextrins (CDs) are increasingly used in pharmaceuticals to improve drug solubility and efficacy.
- The gut microbiota's role in health necessitates evaluating excipients like CDs for their impact on microbial communities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of cyclodextrins on gut microbiota composition and function.
- To explore the potential dual role of CDs as pharmaceutical excipients and gut health modulators.
Main Methods:
- PRISMA-guided literature search across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar.
- Analysis of studies investigating cyclodextrin-gut microbiota interactions.
Main Results:
- Cyclodextrins (α-, β-, γ-CDs) modulate gut microbiota, promoting beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium, Akkermansia).
- CD supplementation increased short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, supporting intestinal homeostasis.
- CDs showed potential in lipid reduction and glycemic control without affecting insulin secretion.
Conclusions:
- Cyclodextrins show promise as pharmaceutical excipients with potential prebiotic effects on gut microbiota.
- Further research using metagenomic and metabolomic approaches is needed to understand CD-microbiota mechanisms and optimize applications.
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