Mechanism of actions of probiotics on type 2 diabetes

Development and complications

authored by

Duygu Ağagündüz, Elif Çelik, Özge Cemali, Ozge Yesildemir, Kezban Şahin Demirci, Gamze Akkus, Tuba Esatbeyoglu, Fatih Ozogul

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial metabolic disorder described by chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, as well as low-grade inflammation. Recent research highlights the vital role of the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis and progression of T2DM. Dysbiosis can impair intestinal barrier integrity, promote systemic inflammation, and contribute to insulin resistance and glucose metabolism dysfunction. This review article investigates the mechanisms by which probiotics interact with gut microbiota and host signaling pathways to impact the onset and complications of T2DM. Databases were searched, and related articles were added, to get a thorough overview of the relationship between probiotics and T2DM and its complications. Probiotics have appeared as potential modulators of the gut microbiome, capable of restoring microbial balance and strengthening intestinal barrier function. Probiotics can influence glucose homeostasis through their multifaceted effects on the gut microbiota and host metabolism. Through the production of beneficial metabolites, suppress α-glucosidase activity, enhance short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels, competitive inhibition of pathogenic bacteria, regulation of gut-derived neurotransmitters such as serotonin, improve intestinal, and immune functions, probiotics may alleviate key mechanisms involved in T2DM development and its complications.

Organisation(s)

Institute of Food Science and Human Nutrition
Institute of Food and One Health
Molecular Food Chemistry and Food Development

External Organisation(s)

Gazi University
Suleyman Demirel University
Trakya University
Uludag University
Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University
Cukurova University

Type

Review article

Journal

Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy

Volume

191

ISSN

0753-3322

Publication date

10.2025

Publication status

Published

Peer reviewed

Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Pharmacology

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being

Electronic version(s)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2025.118421 (Access: Open)