Summary
This narrative review examines microbiota-accessible borate complexes as novel prebiotics capable of reversing gut dysbiosis and promoting healthy host–microbiota symbiosis. The authors propose that dietary MAB intake, acting through AI-2B signalling and mucus layer fortification, restores beneficial bacterial populations and strengthens intestinal barrier function, with potential implications for extending healthspan and preventing age-related disease. The review argues that MAB-rich nutrition may represent a precision intervention strategy for maintaining eubiosis and metabolic health across the lifespan.
UK applicability
Whilst the mechanistic framework presented is internationally applicable, implementation in UK practice would require validation of MAB-rich food sources and nutraceuticals in UK populations, and integration with existing NHS nutrition and microbiome research programmes. Current UK dietary guidelines do not explicitly address boron or microbiota-accessible borate intake, presenting an evidence gap for policy adaptation.
Key measures
Gut microbiota dysbiosis and eubiosis status; autoinducer-2–borate (AI-2B) signalling; Firmicutes phylum abundance; butyrate-producing bacteria; gut barrier integrity; host metabolic health markers
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises current evidence on how microbiota-accessible borate (MAB) complexes, including boron–pectins and borate–phenolic esters, influence gut microbiota composition and function. It reports on mechanisms by which MABs restore eubiosis, strengthen the gut barrier, and potentially extend healthspan through the biosynthesis of autoinducer-2–borate signaling molecules.
Topic tags
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