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- Wichmann, Anita, et al.
(author)
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Microbial modulation of energy availability in the colon regulates intestinal transit.
- 2013
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In: Cell host & microbe. - : Elsevier BV. - 1934-6069 .- 1931-3128. ; 14:5, s. 582-90
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Gut microbiota contribute to host metabolic efficiency by increasing energy availability through thefermentation of dietary fiber and production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the colon. SCFAs are proposed to stimulate secretion of the proglucagon (Gcg)-derived incretin hormone GLP-1, whichstimulates insulin secretion (incretin response) andinhibits gastric emptying. We find that germ-free(GF) and antibiotic-treated mice, which have severely reduced SCFA levels, have increased basal GLP-1 levels in the plasma and increased Gcg expression in the colon. Increasing energy supply, either through colonization with polysaccharide-fermenting bacteria or through diet, suppressed colonic Gcg expression in GF mice. Increased GLP-1 levels in GF mice did not improve the incretin response but instead slowed intestinal transit. Thus, microbiota regulate the basal levels of GLP-1, and increasing these levels may be an adaptive response to insufficient energy availability in the colon that slows intestinal transit and allows for greater nutrient absorption.
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