Microbiota-Short Chain Fatty Acid Relationships Underlie Clinical Heterogeneity and Identify Key Microbial Targets in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Keystone taxa responsible for SCFA production differ according to IBS subtype and traits and the IBS microbiome is characterized by reduced functional redundancy. Differences in microbial substrate preferences are also linked to bowel functions. Focusing on taxa that drive SCFA profiles and stool form may be a rational strategy for identifying relevant microbial targets in IBS and other DGBI.