The impact of gut microbiome on immune and metabolic homeostasis in type 1 diabetes: Clinical insights for prevention and treatment strategies

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a complex disease triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, where abnormal autoimmune responses lead to progressive damage of the pancreatic β cells and severe glucose metabolism disorder. Recent studies have increasingly highlighted the close link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and the development of T1D. This review delves into existing population studies to explore the intricate interactions between the gut microbiota and the immune and metabolic homeostasis in T1D. It summarizes how changes in the structure and function of the gut microbiota are closely associated with the onset and progression of T1D across its natural course and clinical stages. More importantly, based on evidence accumulated from clinical observations and trials, we pioneer the discussion on gut microbiota-based T1D prevention and treatment strategies, this not only enriches our understanding of the complex pathological mechanisms of T1D but also provides potential directions for developing novel prevention and treatment strategies.