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Plasma short-chain fatty acids are associated with COPD and COPD phenotypes
Anders Ørskov Rotevatn1,2, Tomas Mikal Eagan3,4, Adrian McCann5
1Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway. anders.orskov.rotevatn@helse-bergen.no.
BMC Pulmonary Medicine
|May 15, 2026
Summary
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like formate are linked to reduced COPD risk. Specific SCFAs correlate with COPD severity, exacerbations, and symptoms, suggesting a role in disease management.
Area of Science:
- Metabolomics
- Respiratory Medicine
- Microbiome Research
Background:
- Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are gut microbiota metabolites influencing immune responses.
- SCFAs may play a role in the development and progression of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between circulating SCFA concentrations and COPD.
- To explore relationships between SCFAs and specific COPD phenotypes, including disease severity and exacerbation frequency.
Main Methods:
- An observational study involving 130 COPD patients and 103 controls.
- Quantification of eight SCFAs in plasma using isotope-labelled gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.
- Multivariable regression analyses adjusted for key demographic and clinical factors.
Main Results:
- Plasma formate levels were inversely associated with COPD status.
- Propionate and isobutyrate showed inverse associations with severely obstructive COPD.
- Propionate was linked to fewer COPD exacerbations, while isovalerate correlated with higher symptom burden.
Conclusions:
- SCFA formate demonstrates an inverse relationship with COPD.
- Specific SCFAs are associated with distinct COPD phenotypes, highlighting their potential clinical relevance.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms connecting SCFAs, including formate, to COPD pathogenesis.
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