THE ROLE OF GUT MICROBIOTA IN METABOLIC DISORDERS: INSIGHTS AND FUTURE THERAPIES

Abstract

Background: The gut microbiota functions as a vital regulator of host metabolic and immune processes. Disruptions in its composition—termed dysbiosis—are increasingly implicated in metabolic diseases. Objective: This narrative review explores the relationship between gut microbiota and metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), highlighting underlying mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Methods: We reviewed foundational and recent literature from PubMed-indexed journals, emphasizing clinical, metagenomic, and interventional studies on gut microbiota in metabolic diseases. Key Findings: Gut microbial shifts, including elevated Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratios and SCFA alterations, influence energy harvest, inflammation, and gut permeability. Targeted strategies such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) offer promising but variable outcomes. Conclusion: Gut microbiota modulation represents a frontier in metabolic disease therapy. Precision approaches and standardized methodologies are essential for clinical translation.