Exploring the Profile of the Gut Microbiome in Differentiating Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) are emerging global pandemics and carry a significant burden of co-morbidity and mortality. Asian Indians have the highest prevalence of T2DM, leading to 2.54 million deaths yearly. In India, it is 11.6%, and 30-50% of patients with NAFLD have diabetes. Patients with worsening T2DM tend to have increased progression of NAFLD to cirrhosis. NAFLD leads to end-stage liver disease causing 2.59 million deaths annually. Therefore, the relationship between T2DM and NAFLD needs to be disclosed, and the gut microbiome shows significant characteristics for the same. The gut microbiome is a collection of trillions of bacteria, archaea and fungi that resides in the digestive tract of humans. It plays a significant role in health by helping control digestion and benefits our immune system. Progression of metabolic health disorders shows changes in the quality and heterogeneity of the gut microbiome. It has been established that metabolic and immunological disorders are mainly influenced by the gut microbiome and not by the type of diet. Butyrate-producing bacteria benefit insulin resistance leading to more chances of T2DM. Since, the liver is close to the gut microbiome, the influence of the gut microbiome and its metabolites affecting liver function is great. But, gut microbiome being specific in both cases can assist in exploring the relationship and differentiating one from the other. Therefore, further analysis and studies are required to understand the role of the gut microbiome and its significance in better diagnosis.