ScienceJuly 15, 2026
butyrate
/ˈbjuːtɪreɪt/
Definition
A salt or ester of butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid produced in the gut that functions as a bioactive compound with potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'boutyron', meaning butter, combined with the chemical suffix '-ate'. It was coined to describe the acid originally isolated from rancid butter.
In the news
In this article, sodium butyrate is highlighted as a gut-derived chemical used in research to reduce inflammation and promote brain healing after traumatic injury. Its application suggests a promising therapeutic intervention for conditions like epilepsy.
Dr. Samba Reddy Laboratory (IMAGE)
Read the full article ↗EurekAlert!