By Avni Dalal, ND
In recent years, scientists have identified specific gut bacteria that impact digestion, immune health, and metabolic health. One such beneficial microbe is Akkermansia muciniphila, commonly known as Akkermansia. This unique, naturally occurring bacterium has been gaining popularity for its ability to promote a balanced gut microbiome and, more recently, for its potential influence on GLP-1, a hormone involved in regulating blood sugar, appetite, and digestive processes.* In this article, we explore what Akkermansia is, its effects on gut health and GLP-1 receptors, and other important information when considering an Akkermansia supplement.
What Is Akkermansia?
Akkermansia muciniphila is a naturally occurring bacterium that is a prominent member of the human gut microbiota. Its main function is to break down mucin, which, paradoxically, helps maintain gut health by promoting mucus layer renewal in the GI tract and enhancing intestinal barrier integrity.1,2
Akkermansia has been associated with various health benefits, including support of a healthy inflammatory response, improved metabolic functions, and potential protective effects on the heart and digestive system.3 Studies have also shown that individuals with higher levels of Akkermansia often have better metabolic health, modulation of inflammatory signaling pathways, and gut barrier function, making this bacterium a promising target for therapeutic interventions.4,5,6*
Akkermansia’s Impact on GLP-1 and GLP-1 Receptors
One of the exciting areas of research around Akkermansia is its effect on GLP-1. Here are some of the proposed mechanisms that contribute to its role in metabolic health and gut barrier function:
- GLP-1 secretion: Akkermansia has recently been suggested to secrete a specific protein, identified as P9, which directly stimulates GLP-1 secretion. This protein interacts with L cells in the intestine, leading to increased GLP-1 levels.7,8* However, this is still emerging science without strong or consistent results. Its role as a postbiotic appears to have the potential to be more effective.
- Metabolic health: The possible indirect increase in GLP-1 secretion by Akkermansia could lead to downstream effects to improve insulin regulation and glucose tolerance, especially after meals.7,8*
- Gut barrier function: Akkermansia also contributes to gut barrier integrity by supporting gut permeability and decreasing the movement of harmful lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from the gut into the bloodstream, thereby supporting a healthy GI immune response.9,10*
How Is Akkermansia Derived for Supplements?
While Akkermansia is naturally present in the gut, researchers have found ways to increase its levels through supplementation. Unfortunately, directly taking Akkermansia muciniphila as a probiotic does not typically lead to strong, lasting colonization in the gut and fostering an environment that naturally supports akkermansia may be more beneficial.
Interestingly, resistant potato starch—a type of fiber that resists digestion in the small intestine—can be used to help grow Akkermansia outside of the body and serve as a prebiotic substrate for fermentation by the gut microbiota along with increasing the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate.11*
By using resistant potato starch, scientists can cultivate Akkermansia in a form suitable for supplements. Once ingested, they aim to support healthy Akkermansia levels in the gut, leading to improved metabolic health, enhanced gut barrier function, and a healthier overall microbiome.*
Summary
Akkermansia is a one-of-a-kind gut bacterium that offers targeted support for a multitude of positive health benefits. The possible connection between Akkermansia and GLP-1 signaling highlights its potential to promote gut barrier function, blood sugar balance, and weight management.*
Always remember to speak to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your current routine or starting any new supplements.
References:
1. Li L et al. Front Microbiol. 2024;15:1354447.
2. Liu MJ et al. Clin Nutr. 2022;41(10):2333-2344.
3. Gubernatorova EO et al. Front Immunol. 2023;14:1303795.
4. Depommier C et al. Nat Med. 2019;25(7):1096-1103.
5. Zhao S et al. J Mol Endocrinol. 2017;58(1):1-14.
6. Macchione IG et al. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2019;23(18):8075-8083.
7. Yoon HS et al. Nat Microbiol. 2021;6(5):563-573.
8. Cani PD et al. Cell Metab. 2021;33(6):1073-1075.
9. Ottman N et al. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2017;31(6):637-642.
10. Macchione IG et al. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2019;23(18):8075-8083.
11. Trachsel J et al. Front Immunol. 2019;10:1381.
