Effect of Bifidobacterium bifidum G9-1 on fecal short chain fatty acids in patients with chronic constipation: a multicenter, observational study

Background: and aim: Bifidobacterium bifidum G9-1 (BBG9-1) is a probiotic and is considered to be useful for constipation. However, the effect of BBG9-1 on short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in constipated patients has not been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between BBG9-1 and SCFA. Methods This is a prospective four-center observational study. Patients with constipation were treated with BBG9-1 at 72 mg/day for 8 weeks after a 2-week baseline period. Patients with constipation were defined as those diagnosed with Rome IV criteria. The primary endpoint was the concentration of SCFA in feces. Secondary endpoints included change in the Japanese version of the Japanese Patient Assessment of Constipation Composite Index (JPAC-QOL), frequency of bowel movements, stool form, sense of incomplete evacuation, and straining. Results In the 87 patients analyzed, n-butyric acid, iso-butyric, and acetic acid increased with respect to fecal SCFA concentrations. The Japanese version of the Japanese Patient Assessment of Constipation Composite Index score, frequency of bowel movements, stool form, sense of incomplete evacuation, straining also improved. Conclusion The study showed that 8 weeks of oral administration of BBG9-1 increased SCFA concentrations in the feces, especially acetic and butyric acids.