The effects of propionate on blood pressure and arterial function

Background: The short-chain fatty acid propionate has been shown to attenuate atherosclerosis, for example by modulating intestinal cholesterol metabolism. Beyond cholesterol metabolism, data from rodent models suggest a potential additional effect on blood pressure reduction. Material and methods: We conducted a prospective uncontrolled, exploratory, and observational study on 58 individuals receiving propionate supplementation (500 mg twice daily) without preexisting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, assessing peripheral and central blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and endothelial function. All parameters were measured at baseline and follow-up after 3 months. Results: Propionate supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in peripheral systolic (-2.4 mmHg, P = 0.0181, Cohen's d = 0.17) and diastolic (-2.5 mmHg, P = 0.0155, Cohen's d = 0.27) blood pressure, as well as central DBP (-2.4mmHg, P = 0.0198, Cohen's d = 0.26). Regulatory T-cell frequency increased significantly ( P = 0.0036). No changes were observed in pulse wave velocity, flow-mediated dilatation, and cytokine concentrations. Conclusion: Propionate supplementation is associated with a mild reduction in blood pressure in a rather normotensive population of individuals without preexisting atherosclerotic disease.