Metabolomics Insights into Gut Microbiota and Functional Constipation.

Background

The composition and metabolic activity of the gut microbiota play a crucial role in various health conditions, including the occurrence and development of chronic constipation. Recent metabolomic advances reveal that gut microbiota-derived metabolites-such as SCFAs, bile acids, neurotransmitters, and microbial gases-play critical roles in regulating intestinal function.

Methods

We systematically analyzed the current literature on microbial metabolomics in chronic constipation. This review consolidates findings from high-throughput metabolomic techniques (GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR) comparing metabolic profiles of constipated patients with healthy individuals. It also examines diagnostic improvements and personalized treatments, including fecal microbiota transplantation and neuromodulation, guided by these metabolomic insights.

Results

This review shows that reduced SCFA levels impair intestinal motility and promote inflammation. An altered bile acid metabolism-with decreased secondary bile acids like deoxycholic acid-disrupts receptor-mediated signaling, further affecting motility. Additionally, imbalances in amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter production contribute to neuromuscular dysfunction, while variations in microbial gas production (e.g., methane vs. hydrogen) further modulate gut transit.

Conclusions

Integrating metabolomics with gut microbiota research clarifies how specific microbial metabolites regulate gut function. These insights offer promising directions for precision diagnostics and targeted therapies to restore microbial balance and improve intestinal motility.