A Metabolite Perspective on the Involvement of the Gut Microbiota in Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a commonly diagnosed condition that has been extensively studied. The composition and activity of gut microbes, as well as the metabolites they produce (such as short-chain fatty acids, lipopolysaccharides, trimethylamine N-oxide, and bile acids) can significantly impact diabetes development. Treatment options, including medication, can enhance the gut microbiome and its metabolites, and even reverse intestinal epithelial dysfunction. Both animal and human studies have demonstrated the role of microbiota metabolites in influencing diabetes, as well as their complex chemical interactions with signaling molecules. This article focuses on the importance of microbiota metabolites in type 2 diabetes and provides an overview of various pharmacological and dietary components that can serve as therapeutic tools for reducing the risk of developing diabetes. A deeper understanding of the link between gut microbial metabolites and T2D will enhance our knowledge of the disease and may offer new treatment approaches. Although many animal studies have investigated the palliative and attenuating effects of gut microbial metabolites on T2D, few have established a complete cure. Therefore, conducting more systematic studies in the future is necessary.

Interactions between Gut Microbiota and Oral Antihyperglycemic Drugs: A Systematic Review

“…Over time, the gut microbiota has developed a symbiotic and mutually limiting connection with the host’s immune system and surroundings, thanks to individual adaptability and natural selection [ 118 ]. Examining the interaction mechanism between them in more detail is beneficial for comprehending individual variances in pharmacological intervention and generating insights for improving medication effectiveness, minimizing drug adverse effects, and furthering drug development [ 119 , 120 , 121 ]. The use of exceptionally stable and unique microbiota promotes the creation of microbiota preparations tailored to particular individuals and the establishment of a precision medicine system [ 122 ].…”

Advances in fecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of diabetes mellitus

“…Specifically, the number of probiotic colonies, such as Bifidobacterium and Firmicutes , is decreased, and the number of pathogenic bacteria, such as Enterococcus and Enterobacter , is increased, resulting in an increase in inflammatory factors. In addition, these variations can induce the production of LPS, activate inflammatory responses, and affect the metabolism of SCFAs, bile acids, tryptophan, and trimethylamine N-oxide, thus promoting the development of DM ( Fu et al., 2023a ; Wu et al., 2023 ) ( Figures 4A, B ).…”

“…Structural variations in the gut flora damage the integrity of the intestinal barrier, causing increased intestinal permeability and ectopic distribution of certain metabolites throughout the body. This process directly destroys islet β-cells and triggers systemic inflammation and autoimmune processes ( Yan et al., 2019 ; Arora et al., 2021 ; Zhang et al., 2021 ; Ng et al., 2022 ; Fu et al., 2023a ; Wu et al., 2023 ). Furthermore, innate immunity plays a crucial role in the etiology of T1DM.…”

Exploring Beneficial Properties of Haskap Berry Leaf Compounds for Gut Health Enhancement

“…Their synergistic effects counteract oxidative stress, address chronic inflammation, and contribute to cardiovascular health. Additionally, the potential modulation of the gut microbiota composition suggests an avenue for influencing metabolic processes relevant to diabetes [ 27 , 28 , 29 ].…”