Ketone bodies (beta-hydroxybutyrate [BHB], acetoacetate, acetone) are produced by hepatic fatty acid oxidation during carbohydrate restriction, fasting, or ketogenic diet consumption. BHB is the most abundant and is structurally and functionally analogous to butyrate — both are HDAC inhibitors and anti-inflammatory signaling molecules.
Microbiome Connection
- The ketogenic diet profoundly alters gut microbiome composition: increases Akkermansia, reduces Bifidobacterium, and shifts SCFA profiles [1] [2].
- BHB modulates intestinal ILC3 cells and IL-22 production [1].
- Clinical applications: epilepsy (established), ASD (emerging), neurodegeneration (investigational) [3].
Cross-References
- ketogenic diet — intervention producing ketone bodies
- butyrate — structural/functional analogue (both HDAC inhibitors)
- lipid metabolism — hepatic fatty acid oxidation source