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Updated: May 26, 2026

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
11:22

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing

Published on: October 15, 2019

Gut microbiota-modulating interventions in paediatric type 1 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Inmaculada Llopis-Alonso1, Melania Correa-Bares1, María Teresa Mercader-Ros1

  • 1Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, UCAM Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, 30107, Murcia, Spain.

European Journal of Pediatrics
|May 25, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Gut microbiota interventions may improve glycemic control in children with type 1 diabetes, reducing HbA1c and fasting glucose. However, more research is needed to confirm efficacy and optimal use.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Microbiome Research
  • Metabolic Disease Management

Background:

  • Gut microbiota modulation is a potential adjunctive therapy for pediatric type 1 diabetes.
  • Previous reviews had limited data and inconsistent findings on glycemic control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy and safety of gut microbiota-modulating interventions in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
  • To synthesize immune-inflammatory, microbiota-related, and intestinal permeability outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA 2020) of randomized controlled trials.
  • Searched major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CENTRAL) up to February 2026.
  • Included 12 trials with 808 participants (≤19 years) using probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics.

Main Results:

  • Significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose observed.
  • No significant effects on total daily insulin dose or C-peptide levels.
  • Immune-inflammatory, microbiota, and intestinal permeability outcomes suggested potential benefits but were inconsistently reported.

Conclusions:

  • Gut microbiota interventions show promise for improving glycemic control (HbA1c, fasting glucose) in pediatric type 1 diabetes.
  • Current evidence is limited by heterogeneity, insufficient to recommend specific formulations, doses, or durations.
  • Larger, well-designed pediatric trials are necessary to confirm these findings and guide clinical practice.

Keywords:
Beta-cell functionGut microbiota-modulating interventionsIntestinal permeabilityMeta-analysisPrebioticsProbioticsSynbiotics; childrenType 1 diabetes

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