| Diabetes mellitus, a multifactorial disorder, is related to the intestinal microbiota via numerous molecular mechanisms. The vast increase
in the prevalence of diabetes and its associated complications requires a natural and safe solution. There is a growing evidence of gut microbiota
effi ciency in improving insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, and metabolic complications in diabetic patients. Probiotics are defi ned as live
microorganisms that, when ingested in adequate amounts, exert health benefi ts to the host. Probiotics can increase insulin sensitivity and reduce
autoimmune responses by modulating intestinal microbiota and decreasing the infl ammatory reactions and oxidative stress. Recent evidences
show that the intestinal microbiota infl uences the host through modulating intestinal permeability and mucosal immune response, manipulating
eating behaviors by appetite-regulating hormones, including agouti related protein (AgRP), glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and neuropeptide Y, and
controlling gut endocannabinoid (eCB) system which is now believed to be associated with infl ammation and diabetes. Moreover, intestinal microbiota
control the host metabolism by affecting energy extraction from food and by biochemically converting molecules derived from the host or from
gut microbes themselves. Experimental studies and clinical trials support the hypothesis that the modulation of the intestinal microbiota by probiotics,
especially Lactobacillus and Bifi dobacterium strains may be effective in prevention and management of diabetes. This review will highlight the
current evidences in probiotic effectiveness and future prospects for exploring probiotic therapy in prevention and control of diabetes. |