Transporters and receptors for short-chain fatty acids as the molecular link between colonic bacteria and the host
Highlights•The relationship between colonic bacteria and the host is not commensal but
mutual.•Bacterial fermentation products serve as the messengers in this relationship.•The
fermentation products protect against inflammation and cancer in colon.•SLC5A8 is critical
for bacteria–host communication only when fiber intake is low.•GPR109A and GPR43 are
critical for the communication even with optimal fiber intake.The mutually beneficial
relationship between colonic bacteria and the host has been recognized but the molecular …
mutual.•Bacterial fermentation products serve as the messengers in this relationship.•The
fermentation products protect against inflammation and cancer in colon.•SLC5A8 is critical
for bacteria–host communication only when fiber intake is low.•GPR109A and GPR43 are
critical for the communication even with optimal fiber intake.The mutually beneficial
relationship between colonic bacteria and the host has been recognized but the molecular …