Succinate’s Dual Roles in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Narrative Review of Microbiota-Metabolism-Immune Crosstalk and Therapeutic Implications

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic intestinal condition characterized by microbial dysbiosis, metabolic alterations, and immune dysregulation. Succinate, a key tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediate and microbiota-derived metabolite, has emerged as a central regulator within the host microbiota-metabolism-immune axis in IBD. This narrative review delineates succinate metabolism and its dual signaling roles, operating both intracellularly and through extracellular receptors. We synthesize evidence on its context-dependent immunomodulatory functions, which can paradoxically drive both pro- and anti-inflammatory responses, and elucidate the specific factors that dictate these outcomes. Finally, we critically evaluate the translational potential of targeting the succinate pathway, outlining promising avenues for future research in IBD diagnosis and treatment.