Butyric acid is a short-chain fatty acid primarily produced by gut microbiota during the fermentation of dietary fibers. As a key metabolite in gut health, butyric acid has gained attention for its anti-inflammatory, epithelial cell repair-promoting, and anticancer properties. Its role in colorectal cancer  research, in particular, has been widely studied. This article will detail the potential benefits of butyric acid in cancer care and its mechanisms of action.

Sources and Characteristics of Butyric Acid

1. Natural Sources：
   Butyric acid is primarily produced by gut microbiota when fermenting dietary fibers such as inulin and resistant starch. It is also found in foods such as cheese, milk, and butter.
2. Bioactive Properties：
   Butyric acid serves as the main energy source for gut cells and possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-regulating properties.

Potential Benefits of Butyric Acid in Cancer Care

1. Gut Health Promotion：
   Butyric acid strengthens the gut barrier function, reduces gut permeability, and lowers the risk of inflammation and infections. This is especially important for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, as these treatments can damage the intestinal mucosa.
2. Anti-inflammatory and Immune Regulation：
   Butyric acid reduces the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines by regulating nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and other inflammatory pathways. This helps alleviate chronic inflammation associated with cancer and enhances the immune response in patients.
3. Anticancer Effects：
   Butyric acid induces differentiation and apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibits their proliferation. Studies show that butyric acid can suppress tumor growth by altering gene expression and signaling pathways, particularly in colorectal cancer.
4. Enhancing Chemotherapy Efficacy：
   Butyric acid has been shown to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs (such as 5-fluorouracil) while reducing damage to normal cells, thus improving the safety and tolerance of cancer treatments.
5. ImprovingCancer-related Symptoms：
   Butyric acid helps alleviate common side effects of chemotherapy  andradiation therapy, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea,  andfatigue. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help improve systemic inflammation in cancer patients.

Mechanisms of Action of Butyric Acid

1. Epigenetic Regulation：
   Butyric acid acts as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, regulating gene expression to suppress cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis.
2. Metabolic Regulation：
   Butyric acid regulates metabolic pathways in gut cells, improving energy utilization and reducing the generation of free radicals.
3. Gut Microbiota Modulation：
   Butyric acid supports the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiota, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms, thus enhancing both gut and overall health.

Clinical Research and Evidence

1. Colorectal Cancer Studies：
   Multiple studies have shown that butyric acid reduces the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells and decreases the incidence of precancerous lesions.
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects Validation：
   A study published in Gut Microbes demonstrated that butyric acid significantly lowers intestinal inflammation markers, offering potential for preventing chronic inflammation-related cancers such as colorectal cancer.
3. Adjunctive Therapy Applications：

Clinical trials suggest that supplementing with butyric acid or its precursors (such as butyrate salts) improves gut health in cancer patients, reduces chemotherapy-related side effects, and enhances patients’ quality of life.

Things to note

1. Supplementation Forms：

Butyric acid is typically available in the form of butyrate salts (e.g., sodium butyrate or calcium butyrate) as dietary supplements. It is recommended to use them under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

2. Dietary Sources：

Increasing the intake of fiber-rich foods (such as whole grains, legumes, and vegetables) can help promote the production of more butyric acid by gut microbiota.

3. Safety and Tolerability：
   Studies indicate that butyric acid is safe when consumed at recommended doses. However, high doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, so it should be used in moderation, tailored to individual needs.

Conclusion

care, including promoting gut health, reducing inflammation, modulating immune responses, and exerting direct anticancer effects. Its most notable application is in colorectal cancer, but its adjunctive effects in other cancer types also warrant attention. Proper supplementation or dietary intake of butyric acid can support cancer patients, enhancing their treatment outcomes and quality of life. Further clinical research will help fully explore the potential of butyric acid in cancer care.

References

1. Hamer, H. M., et al. (2008). Review article: The role of butyrate on colonic function. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 27(2), 104-119. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2007.03562.x
2. Canani, R. B., et al. (2011). Potential beneficial effects of butyrate in intestinal and extraintestinal diseases. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 17(12), 1519-1528. DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i12.1519
3. Davie, J. R. (2003). Inhibition of histone deacetylase activity by butyrate. Journal of Nutrition, 133(7), 2485S-2493S. DOI: 10.1093/jn/133.7.2485S
4. Louis, P., et al. (2014). The role of the gut microbiota in the control of butyrate metabolism. Clinical and Translational Immunology, 3(4), e27. DOI: 10.1038/cti.2014.11
5. Clarke, J. M., et al. (2019). Influence of butyrate on cancer cell bioenergetics. Cancer Metabolism, 7, 8. DOI: 10.1186/s40170-019-0205-3

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Always consult your physician or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition or medical problems. The content of this article is not intended to recommend any specific test, treatment, or medication and should not be considered such advice. If you develop symptoms or need medical assistance, please contact a medical professional promptly.