Acetate Metabolism in Urological Health and Disease

Abstract

Acetate, the simplest short-chain fatty acid, serves key roles in urological health as both a nutrient and an endogenous molecule. It originates from gut microbial fermentation of dietary fiber and is found in common foods like dairy products, pasta, coffee, and vinegar. Additionally, acetate is synthesized internally to support energy metabolism and cell signaling pathways. This review highlights recent advancements in understanding acetate's function as a signaling molecule in regulating cell fate and activity, with implications for urological health and disease treatment. The potential of acetate as a biomarker for urological health is examined, offering valuable insights that could enhance strategies for disease diagnosis, management, and therapeutic development. Furthermore, the review explores the application of non-invasive imaging techniques to monitor acetate metabolism for the diagnosis, staging, and management of urological cancers.