Propionates

The propionate /ˈproʊpiəneɪt/, or propanoate ion, is C2H5COO− (the conjugate base of propionic acid). The propionate /ˈproʊpiəneɪt/, or propanoate ion, is C2H5COO− (the conjugate base of propionic acid). A propionic, or propanoic, compound is a small salt or ester of propionic acid. In these compounds, propionate is often written in shorthand, as CH3CH2CO2 or simply EtCO2. Propionates should not be confused with propenoates (commonly known as acrylates), the ions/salts/esters of propenoic acid (also known as 2-propenoic acid or acrylic acid). Propionate is observed to be among the most common short-chain fatty acids produced by human gut microbiota in response to indigestible carbohydrates (fiber) in the diet. A study in mice suggests that propionate is produced by the bacteria of the genus Bacteroides in the gut, and that it offers some protection against Salmonella there. Another study finds that fatty acid propionate can calm the immune cells that drive up blood pressure, thereby protecting the body from damaging effects of high blood pressure.