The role of bacterial flora and its products in the functioning of the small intestine

In recent years, particular attention has been paid to the role of the intestinal microflora in the multiple functions of the small intestinal (absorbent, secretory, immunological, endocrine, transport, barrier). The demonstrated beneficial effects of certain bacteria on human health has enabled probiotics antibiotics to be used for therapeutic purposes in a number of gastrointestinal diseases. Certain products of bacterial metabolism (e.g. butyrate) could provide further therapeutic weapons in a sector in which treatment has long proved difficult.