Demystifying the role of postbiotics in inflammation mediated metabolic disorders: an updated review

Postbiotics, the metabolic byproducts of probiotic bacteria, have emerged as promising therapeutic agents for managing inflammation-mediated metabolic disorders. Postbiotics offer greater stability and standardization compared to probiotics, as they do not rely on live bacteria for their effects. These bioactive compounds including organic acids, peptides, short-chain fatty acids, enzymes, and exopolysaccharides play a crucial role in modulating immune responses, enhancing intestinal barrier function, and reducing chronic inflammation. Inflammation is a key factor in the development of metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, NAFLD, and cardiovascular diseases. By targeting multiple molecular pathways such as TLR4/NF-κB signaling, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, Treg/Th17 cell balance, AMPK pathway, MLCK inhibition, NLRC3-TRAF6 axis, AhR signaling, and STAT3-mediated mucin synthesis, postbiotics exert anti-inflammatory and gut-protective effects. These mechanisms include inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reduction of oxidative stress, improvement of tight junction integrity, and modulation of gut microbiota composition. Additionally, postbiotics have been shown to positively influence gut-brain signalling, contributing to better metabolic health and weight management. This review delves into the molecular mechanisms by which postbiotics regulate inflammatory pathways and metabolic processes.