Assessment of Fecal Microflora, Short-chain Fatty Acids and Key Metabolic Biomarkers in Adult Males from Pekanbaru

Recent studies have investigated the influence of the gut microbiota on various health determinants. The interaction between gut microbiota and human metabolism influences blood cholesterol, glucose, uric acid and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production.

This study investigates the correlation between microflora and blood and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), total cholesterol, glucose and uric acid levels in adult men. Thirty males aged 18-21 from Pekanbaru, Indonesia, participated. Total plate count (TPC), lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and Bifidobacteria were analyzed using specific media. Total blood cholesterol, glucose and uric acid were quantified with KITs, while SCFAs were assessed using GC-MS. A bivariate analysis explored the correlations between fecal microbiota, blood cholesterol, glucose, uric acid and SCFAs.

The results showed variability in TPC, LAB and Bifidobacteria counts, with correlations between microflora quantity and blood and fecal SCFAs, cholesterol, glucose and uric acid. While most participants had normal cholesterol and glucose, 30% had elevated uric acid levels. Bivariate analysis revealed no correlation between TPC, LAB and Bifidobacteria counts, but microflora may support cholesterol and glucose metabolism. Bifidobacteria abundance was linked to blood uric acid levels. SCFA concentrations correlated with TPC, LAB and Bifidobacteria, with the most prevalent acetic, propionic and butyric acids. Microbiota composition influenced cholesterol, glucose, uric acid and SCFA levels.