International Research and Academic scholar society

The Gut Microbiome as a Metabolic Organ: Biochemical and Nutritional Evidence in Health and Disease


Sr No:
Page No: 6-14
Language: English
Authors: Udoeyop Favor1, Okorie Claribel1, Nweje-Anyalowu Paul2, Enyinnaya Blessing Oluchi3, Auwal Shehu Ali4, Banwo Faridah Mobolanle5, Shehu Muhammad Hassan6, Abdullahi Muhammad7, Usman Ibrahim8, Idakwoji Precious Adejoh*9
Affiliation: 1Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike, Enugu State, Nigeria., 2Biochemistry Programme, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Clifford University, Owerrinta (Ihie campus), Abia State, Nigeria., 3Department of Public Health, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Clifford University, Owerrinta, Abia State, Nigeria, 4Federal Teaching Hospital. Katsina, Katsina State, Nigeria., 5Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria, 6Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ahmadu Belo University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria., 7Ahmadu Belo University Distance Learning Centre and International Medical Corps, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria., 8Department of Biotechnology, Modibbo Adamawa University, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria., 9*Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria
Received: 2026-07-09
Accepted: 2026-08-16
Published Date: 2026-08-31
Abstract:
Background: The gut microbiome functions as a dynamic metabolic system that interacts continuously with host nutrition and physiology, influencing energy balance, immune function, and disease risk. Objective: This review examines the gut microbiome as a metabolic organ, focusing on biochemical and nutritional evidence linking microbial activity to human health and disease. Methods: A narrative review approach was considered, integrating recent peer-reviewed literature on host–microbiome metabolic interactions, dietary modulation of gut microbial composition, and microbial metabolite signaling pathways. Results: Evidence indicates that gut microbes contribute to host metabolism through fermentation of dietary fibers into short-chain fatty acids, transformation of bile acids, and metabolism of amino acids and polyphenols. These microbial products act as signaling molecules influencing glucose homeostasis, lipid metabolism, inflammatory pathways, and gut barrier integrity. Dysbiosis has been associated with metabolic disorders including obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular disease. Dietary patterns rich in fiber and plant-derived compounds are consistently linked with beneficial microbial profiles and improved metabolic outcomes. Conclusion: The gut microbiome operates as a metabolically active organ that integrates dietary inputs with host biochemical pathways. Understanding these interactions provides a basis for nutritional strategies aimed at preventing and managing metabolic diseases.
Keywords: Microbiome, Metabolic Organ, Biochemical, Nutrition, Health and Disease.

Journal: IRASS Journal of Applied Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
ISSN(Online): 3049-0901
Publisher: IRASS Publisher
Frequency: Monthly
Language: English

The Gut Microbiome as a Metabolic Organ: Biochemical and Nutritional Evidence in Health and Disease