Evaluating how short-chain fatty acids are absorbed in the intestines of healthy volunteers

The Systemic Availability of Short-Chain Fatty Acids After Delivery in the Small Intestine and the Colon

Not applicable Interventional KU Leuven · NCT06082726

This study tests how well healthy people absorb short-chain fatty acids when they are given in different parts of the intestines.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment13 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorKU Leuven Academic / other
Locations1 site (Leuven)
Trial IDNCT06082726 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This crossover study aims to assess the systemic availability of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) administered either in the small intestine or the colon in healthy volunteers. Participants will ingest SCFA capsules on two separate test days, with blood samples collected at regular intervals to measure the amount of SCFA reaching systemic circulation. The study seeks to determine if the site of administration influences SCFA absorption and metabolism. By comparing the effects of different administration sites, the research will provide insights into intestinal absorption mechanisms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 18 to 50 with a normal BMI.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic gastrointestinal disorders or those on specific restrictive diets may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of SCFA absorption, potentially leading to improved dietary recommendations and therapeutic strategies for gut health.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on SCFA absorption exist, this specific approach of comparing absorption based on administration site is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* female and male
* healthy participants
* age within 18 - 50 years
* normal BMI (18.5-25 kg/m\^2)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Chronic gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, chronic constipation (less than 3 stools a week) and chronic frequent diarrhoea (more than 3 stools a day)
* Previous abdominal surgery, except from appendectomy
* Being on a weight loss, gluten-free, lactose-free, or vegan diet
* The donation of blood during the last 3 months or suffering from low blood haemoglobin levels
* The use of antibiotics or other medication that affects the gastrointestinal tract 3 months preceding the study and/or during the study
* The use of prebiotics or probiotics 2 weeks preceding the study and/or during the study
* Pregnancy, lactation or wish to become pregnant during the study period
* Previous or current substance/alcohol dependence or abuse (\> 2 units per day/14 units per week)

Where this trial is running

Leuven

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Systemic AvailabilityIntestinal AbsorptionMetabolismShort-chain Fatty Acids
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.