SCFAt

SCFAt stands for Short-Chain Fatty Acid Transporter. It refers to a family of proteins responsible for moving short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) across cell membranes. SCFAs are important molecules produced by the gut microbiota during the fermentation of dietary fiber. Key SCFAs include acetate, propionate, and butyrate. These compounds play crucial roles in host physiology, influencing energy metabolism, immune function, and gut health.

SCFAt proteins are vital for the absorption and utilization of SCFAs by various tissues, including the intestinal epithelium, liver, and brain. Different SCFA transporters exhibit varying affinities for specific SCFAs and are expressed in distinct cell types and locations, suggesting specialized roles in SCFA handling. For example, the monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) and the hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1 (HCAR1), also known as GPR43, are known to be involved in SCFA transport and signaling. Understanding SCFAt function is important for research into metabolic diseases, inflammatory conditions, and the gut-brain axis. Dysregulation of SCFA transport has been implicated in conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease. Further research into the structure and function of SCFAt proteins may reveal therapeutic targets for these health issues.