Butyrivibrio

Butyrivibrio is not typically a predominant genus in the human gut, but it can be found in small amounts where it contributes to the microbial fermentation processes. In the human gastrointestinal tract, Butyrivibrio may play a role similar to that in ruminants, fermenting complex polysaccharides to produce butyrate and other short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These SCFAs are vital for maintaining gut health, serving as energy sources for colonocytes, and regulating inflammation and cell proliferation.¹

Role of Butyrivibrio in human health

Fermentation and SCFA Production: The primary role of Butyrivibrio in the human gut is the fermentation of complex polysaccharides, transforming them into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, propionate, and acetate. These SCFAs are crucial for colonic health, serving as a primary energy source for colonocytes, and have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Butyrate, in particular, helps maintain the integrity of the gut barrier, reduces the risk of colon cancer, and modulates the immune response.²
Digestive Health: By breaking down dietary fibers that are resistant to digestion by human enzymes, Butyrivibrio aids in the overall digestive process. This activity helps in maximizing nutrient absorption and maintaining regular bowel movements, thereby contributing to digestive health. Moreover, the SCFAs produced as a byproduct of fermentation lower the pH of the colon, which inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria and enhances mineral absorption.³
Immune System Modulation: Butyrivibrio contributes to the immune system by influencing the development and function of gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). SCFAs, especially butyrate, have been shown to enhance the production of regulatory T cells and cytokines that play a key role in anti-inflammatory pathways. This modulation helps prevent immune-mediated diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and potentially allergies.⁴
Metabolic Health: The metabolic effects of SCFAs are profound. Butyrivibrio‘s production of these acids has been linked to improved insulin sensitivity and energy homeostasis. SCFAs can also influence cholesterol metabolism, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.⁵
Potential Role in Mental Health: Emerging research suggests a link between gut flora, including SCFA producers like Butyrivibrio, and mental health through the gut-brain axis. SCFAs are thought to impact brain chemistry and behavior indirectly through metabolic, endocrine, and immune pathways, contributing to the management of stress, anxiety, and depression.⁶

Best sources of Butyrivibrio

Butyrivibrio is a genus of bacteria that is not ingested directly from external sources as it is naturally part of the microbiomes of herbivores, particularly in the rumen, and to a lesser extent, it can also be found in the human gut. The growth and health of Butyrivibrio populations, particularly in the rumen, can be influenced by the diet of the host animal, notably through the intake of high-fiber plant materials.

In the context of the human gut, promoting the health and activity of similar fiber-fermenting bacteria involves consuming a diet rich in various fibers:

Resistant Starches: Found in foods like cooked and cooled potatoes, green bananas, and legumes, these starches resist digestion in the small intestine and are fermented in the colon, supporting the growth of fiber-fermenting bacteria.
Dietary Fibers: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables provide cellulose and hemicellulose, which are important substrates for Butyrivibrio in the rumen and can support similar bacteria in the human gut.⁷

**Where to find Butyrivibrio in the Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test**

You will find your Butyrivibrio score in the “Butyrate” section of the “Postbiotics” report in your Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test results.

Synonyms: formerly Clostridium proteoclasticum, renamed Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, Attwood et al. 1996. Butyrivibrio is typically found alongside other genera within the Lachnospiraceae family such as Lachnospira, Roseburia, and Blautia. These bacteria collectively play crucial roles in breaking down complex plant materials in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the rumens of herbivorous animals, and have analogous roles in the human colon, contributing to health through their metabolic activities.

Important disclaimer

The Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Handbook is an educational resource built to translate complex science into plain English. The information provided on this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Always check with your GP for interactions with medications/health conditions before changing your diet or starting to take food supplements.

References

1
Flint, H. J., Scott, K. P., Duncan, S. H., Louis, P., & Forano, E. (2012). Microbial degradation of complex carbohydrates in the gut. Gut Microbes, 3(4), 289-306. https://doi.org/10.4161/gmic.19897.
2
Louis, P., & Flint, H. J. (2014). Diversity, metabolism and microbial ecology of butyrate-producing bacteria from the human large intestine. FEMS Microbiology Letters, 334(1), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1574-6968.2009.01514.x.
3
Flint, H. J., Scott, K. P., Duncan, S. H., Louis, P., & Forano, E. (2012). Microbial degradation of complex carbohydrates in the gut. Gut Microbes, 3(4), 289-306. https://doi.org/10.4161/gmic.19897.
4
Arpaia, N., Campbell, C., Fan, X., Dikiy, S., van der Veeken, J., deRoos, P., Liu, H., Cross, J. R., & Pfeffer, K. (2013). Metabolites produced by commensal bacteria promote peripheral regulatory T-cell generation. Nature, 504, 451-455. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature12726.
5
den Besten, G., van Eunen, K., Groen, A. K., Venema, K., Reijngoud, D. J., & Bakker, B. M. (2013). The role of short-chain fatty acids in the interplay between diet, gut microbiota, and host energy metabolism. Journal of Lipid Research, 54(9), 2325-2340. https://doi.org/10.1194/jlr.R036012.
6
Mayer, E. A., Tillisch, K., & Gupta, A. (2014). Gut/brain axis and the microbiota. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 125(3), 926-938. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI76304.
7
Hobson, P. N., & Stewart, C. S. (1997). The Rumen Microbial Ecosystem. London: Blackie Academic & Professional.