Soluble fibre as a treatment for inflammation in asthma

Abstract

Asthma is a highly prevalent inflammatory disease of the airways. Bacterial metabolites of soluble fibre fermentation, such as short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects via free fatty acid receptor activation and epigenetic regulation through inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs). The aim of the present review was to summarise the available evidence for soluble fibre in the treatment and prevention asthma. There is substantial preclinical evidence suggesting soluble fibre may be beneficial in the airways. The clinical evidence in this area is limited, however available studies to date have reported promising evidence for the future of soluble fibre interventions as an adjunct treatment in asthma management.