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article · The Egyptian Journal of Internal Medicine

Gut microbiota-derived metabolites: implications for metabolic syndrome and therapeutic interventions

202415 citationsOpen accessOlabisi Onabanjo University

In plain language

Metabolic syndrome involves a group of conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Imbalances in gut microbiota composition and function contribute directly to the development and progression of this syndrome. In particular, the dysregulation of specific microbial metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, trimethylamine N-oxide, polyamines, amino acids, and indole derivatives, plays a critical part in disturbing normal metabolic functions. Potential strategies to manage metabolic syndrome include dietary adjustments, probiotics, prebiotics, and precision medicine approaches designed to target specific metabolites. These methods focus on restoring microbial balance and promoting the release of beneficial compounds. Standardised research methodologies are required to further explore personalised treatments and non-invasive diagnostic tools targeting the relationship between gut microbes and metabolic health.

Key takeaways

  • Gut microbiota dysbiosis and resulting metabolite imbalances are linked to the development of metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.
  • Specific metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, trimethylamine N-oxide, polyamines, amino acids, and indole derivatives, are disrupted in metabolic syndrome.
  • Interventions such as diet, prebiotics, probiotics, and precision medicines targeting metabolites offer strategies to restore microbial balance.
  • Standardised research methodologies are needed to advance non-invasive diagnostic tools and personalised therapeutic interventions.

Why it matters

Metabolic syndrome affects millions globally, raising risks for life-threatening conditions like heart disease and diabetes. By highlighting how the gut microbiome and its chemical products contribute to these metabolic disorders, this review points towards clearer pathways for non-invasive testing and tailored dietary or medicinal therapies that restore microbial health.

Commercialisation angle

This work points towards potential commercial applications in non-invasive diagnostics, specialised dietary supplements, prebiotics, probiotics, and targeted therapeutics for managing metabolic syndrome. Potential users include clinical practitioners, diagnostic laboratories, and nutraceutical or pharmaceutical developers. As a review synthesising recent research and calling for standardised methodologies, the underlying concepts remain at an early, exploratory stage of development.

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Abstract

Abstract Background The gut microbiota (GM) and their metabolites have garnered significant attention for their roles in metabolic syndrome (MetS) and associated conditions. MetS, characterized by a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The dysbiosis of gut microbiota, marked by changes in microbial composition and function, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of MetS. Main body This review synthesizes recent findings elucidating the influence of GM composition and microbiota-derived metabolites on MetS pathogenesis and progression. Notably, alterations in GM composition and dysregulation of metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), polyamines, amino acids, and indole derivatives have been implicated in MetS development. These metabolites play crucial roles in metabolic processes, and their imbalance can trigger or exacerbate metabolic disturbances associated with MetS. Various therapeutic approaches, including dietary interventions, probiotics, prebiotics, and precision medicine targeting specific metabolites, offer promising strategies for managing MetS. These interventions aim to restore a healthy GM balance and regulate the production of beneficial metabolites. Conclusion The complexity of GM interactions and their systemic effects necessitate more standardized research methodologies. Future investigations focusing on personalized therapeutic interventions and non-invasive diagnostic tools are warranted to address the complexities of MetS management. Advancing our understanding of the GM-metabolite-MetS axis will be crucial for developing effective, targeted treatments and improving patient outcomes in MetS.

Research topics

  • Gut microbiota and health
  • Diet and metabolism studies
  • Tryptophan and brain disorders

Sustainable Development Goals

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DOI: 10.1186/s43162-024-00342-4

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