Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a significant global health burden, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches. Recent research has increasingly recognized the role of gut microbiota modulation in T2DM management, offering promising avenues for intervention. This systematic review synthesizes current literature investigating the impact of modulating gut microbiota on T2DM management. A comprehensive search of databases yielded studies examining various strategies, including probiotics, prebiotics, dietary interventions, and fecal microbiota transplantation. These strategies were chosen based on their potential to influence gut microbiota composition and, consequently, metabolic health in T2DM patients. Analysis of these interventions involved evaluating their effects on glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation markers in individuals with T2DM. The analysis revealed the potential of these strategies to improve glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation markers. Mechanistic insights elucidated how gut microbiota modulation influences metabolic pathways, immune function, and gut barrier integrity, contributing to T2DM pathophysiology. Furthermore, studies highlight the interplay between gut microbiota composition and host factors such as diet, lifestyle, and genetics, underscoring the complexity of this relationship. Modulating gut microbiota presents a promising therapeutic approach in T2DM management, with potential benefits in glycemic control and metabolic health. However, further research is warranted to optimize intervention strategies, elucidate mechanistic pathways, and explore long-term effects. This review underscores the importance of considering gut microbiota modulation as a complementary approach in T2DM management. Integrating these findings into clinical practice and public health strategies is crucial to enhance patient outcomes and address the growing burden of T2DM globally. Extensive clinical trials and longitudinal studies are needed to validate the efficacy and safety of gut microbiota-targeted therapies in diverse populations.
Keywords: Gut microbiota, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, Modulation, Probiotics, Prebiotics, Dietary interventions, Fecal microbiota transplantation, Glycemic control, Metabolic health
Abbreviations: T2DM- Type 2 Diabetes Millitus.