Page 322 - Biochemistry PharmD General

Short Chain and Long Chain Fatty Acids

Short-chain fatty acids

Fatty acids with fewer than 6 carbon atoms that are
only produced by bacterial fermentation of
polysaccharides that resist digestion in the small
intestine (e.g. dietary plant matter) and can enter the
colon

-Stimulates active Na+ and Cl- absorption to promote water reabsorption by

osmosis and therefore retain calories and electrolytes.
-Can be used for energy by epithelial cells in the colon and the central
nervous system (can pass through BBB).
-Can be absorbed through the portal vein into the blood. E.g. Acetate,
Propionate, and Butyrate

321