[ABDOMINAL OBESITY AND GUT MICROBIOTA (REVIEW)].

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Metabolic Health
• Obesity Research

Background:

• The gut microbiota plays a critical role in host physiology, influencing metabolism and immune function.
• Abdominal obesity is linked to dysbiosis, characterized by an imbalance in gut microbial composition.
• Factors like Western diet, high salt intake, and endotoxemia contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiological relationships between intestinal microbiota and body weight regulation in patients with abdominal obesity.
• To discuss the mechanisms by which gut microbiota contributes to obesity and metabolic diseases.
• To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiota.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating gut microbiota composition and function.
• Analysis of key microbial metabolites and host signaling pathways (e.g., gastrointestinal peptides, short-chain fatty acids, bile acids).
• Examination of the role of inflammation, dysbiosis, and endotoxemia in obesity development.

Main Results:

• Gut microbiota influences body weight regulation through various mechanisms, including modulation of energy harvest and inflammation.
• Dysbiosis and endotoxemia are identified as pro-inflammatory factors contributing to insulin resistance and weight gain.
• Specific microbial components and metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids) impact host metabolism and immune responses.

Conclusions:

• Targeting the gut microbiota offers a promising therapeutic avenue for abdominal obesity and associated metabolic disorders.
• Interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, and agonists of gastrointestinal peptides can modulate gut microbiota, reduce inflammation, and improve metabolic health.
• Further research into microbiota-host interactions is crucial for developing effective obesity management strategies.