Butyrate Improves Insulin Sensitivity and Increases Energy Expenditure in Mice

OBJECTIVE We examined the role of butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid formed by fermentation in the large intestine, in the regulation of insulin sensitivity in mice fed a high-fat diet. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In dietary-obese C57BL/6J mice, sodium butyrate was administrated through diet supplementation at 5% wt/wt in the high-fat diet. Insulin sensitivity was examined with insulin tolerance testing and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance. Energy metabolism was monitored in a metabolic chamber. Mitochondrial function was investigated in brown adipocytes and skeletal muscle in the mice. RESULTS On the high-fat diet, supplementation of butyrate prevented development of insulin resistance…

• AD
  American Diabetes Association
• NI
  National Institutes of Health

  Awards: 1P30 DK072476, DK072476
• NI
  National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

  Awards: DK072476, 1P30 DK072476