Connecting the Dots: Zonulin, Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and Diabetes

Abstract

Pathophysiology of T2DM study reports advocate that gut microbiota (GM) plays a significant role in its development. Interaction between the GM and the CNS is a complex bidirectional, interdependent link, known as the "gut-brain axis," via the nervous, neuroendocrine, and immune systems. Since the microbiota also ply an important role in the gut brain axis modulation it can be considered as Gut microbiota brain axis (GMBA). This can happen through a leaky gut and disturbed BBB where the TJ morphology gets disrupted due to the altered “gatekeeper” molecule Zonulin levels.  it is said to be of enteric epithelial cells and endothelial cells of BBB.

Increased serum zonulin levels are accompanied by a leaky intestinal barrier, dysbiosis and inflammation. Regardless of the significant task of the brain, it is difficult to trace the prime role in glucose metabolism and homeostasis. It is observed that along with appetite control and intestinal glucose uptake, it would be probable to regulate glucose homeostasis by maintaining normal intestinal microbiota. GM also regulate brain activity via various signalling molecules passing through BBB. Thus, it appears that the GM is a potential new therapeutic target for the effective treatment of metabolic diseases.