**10. Integrity of epithelium is preserved by SCFAs**

SCFA is produced from fermented dietary fiber either through stimulation of gut microbiota which by pattern recognition receptors such as TLR2. There is no evidence that it enhances epithelial integrity under healthy conditions, but it does maintain epithelial integrity in disease states. By maintaining tight junction structures, it protects the epithelial integrity from agents that disrupt the barrier [21].
