Microbial Partners In Disease: Understanding The Role Of Gut Microbiota In Diabetes (Atena Editora)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency. Diagnosis involves assessing glucose levels, managed through lifestyle changes and medication. Recent research highlights personalized treatment approaches. The gut microbiota, consisting of diverse microorganisms, influences metabolism and immunity. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut microbes, correlates with T2DM and metabolic dysfunction. Dysbiosis disrupts microbial metabolites, alters gut barrier function, and impacts the gut-brain axis, contributing to T2DM development. Understanding dysbiosis' role in T2DM pathogenesis is vital for developing tailored interventions targeting the gut microbiota. Further research is needed to elucidate underlying mechanisms and personalize therapeutic strategies for T2DM management. OBJETIVE: Analyze and describe the main aspects of microbiota in T2DM and glucose metabolism in the last years. METHODS: This is a narrative review, in which the main aspects of the main aspects of microbiota in T2DM and glucose metabolism in recent years were analyzed, included studies in the MEDLINE – PubMed (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health), COCHRANE, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Glucose metabolism is intricately regulated by various hormones and enzymes, with dysregulation implicated in metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The gut microbiota, influenced by factors such as diet and lifestyle, plays a significant role in modulating glucose metabolism through microbial-derived metabolites. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota has been linked to insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance, contributing to T2DM pathogenesis. Interventions targeting the gut microbiota, including prebiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, offer promising avenues for managing T2DM by restoring microbial balance and improving metabolic health. However, gaps in understanding the gut microbiota's role and optimal therapeutic strategies necessitate further research to develop personalized interventions for T2DM prevention and treatment, including exploring the preventive potential of fecal microbiota transplantation. CONCLUSION: In essence, the relationship between glucose metabolism and the gut microbiota is intricate and pivotal in understanding and managing metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Dysregulation in glucose metabolism, influenced by hormonal regulation and enzymatic activity, contributes to T2DM development. Prebiotics and probiotics offer potential in modulating the gut microbiota to improve metabolic outcomes. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is linked to T2DM pathogenesis, with microbial-derived metabolites playing vital roles in host metabolism and inflammation. Interventions targeting the gut microbiota, including fecal microbiota transplantation, present promising avenues for T2DM management, but further research is essential to optimize these approaches. Advancing our understanding of the gut microbiota's role in T2DM and developing personalized therapeutic strategies are crucial steps in addressing this global health challenge.