(P03-047-24) Effects of Supplementation With Tributyrin on Gut Microbiome Composition and Blood Biomarkers: A Pilot Study

Objectives: The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate changes in gut microbiome composition and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) metabolites in fecal samples, as well as changes in blood biomarkers after supplementation with ButyraGen®, a novel tributyrin complex.

Methods: This was a 28-day two-arm, randomized, parallel design pilot study with a 7-day placebo wash-in. Participants took either one or two placebo capsules during the 7-day placebo phase (0 mg tributyrin) and one or two ButyraGen® capsules during the 21-day active phase (100 mg or 200 mg tributyrin, respectively). Fecal and blood samples were collected at baseline (Day -7) and the end of the study (Day 21). Gut microbiome composition was assessed via short read taxonomic annotation. SCFAs were measured via gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). Blood biomarkers assessed included glucose, insulin, triglycerides and hs-CRP.

Results: Twenty-four adults (25 ± 8 years; 24.0 ± 2.8 kg/m²) completed the study. Decreased fecal acetic (p=0.03) and propionic (p=0.03) acids were observed with supplementation. No significant changes in butyric acid or gut microbiome composition were observed (p >0.05). A significant increase in triglycerides (p=0.02) was observed only in the high dose group (200 mg tributyrin). Marginally significant decreases in hs-CRP and glucose were observed in the low dose group (100 mg tributyrin, p=0.08 and p=0.10, respectively) and in the high dose group (p=0.07) for hs-CRP only after supplementation. No significant changes in insulin were observed (p >0.05).

Conclusions: This study offers new insights of ButyraGen® supplementation on possible metabolic and inflammatory actions. We hypothesize these effects are due to butyrate generation and absorption from the small intestine influencing butyrate sensitive anti-inflammatory and metabolic pathways in the liver. Further evaluations are needed to elucidate specific mechanisms of action.

Funding Sources: Funding and study material was provided NutriScience Innovations, Milford, CT, USA.