Abstract
The surge in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) cases in recent years has underscored the urgent need for more intensive research into its prevention and management. The nuclear factor (NF)-κB is recognized as a key mediator in the development of diabetic microvascular complications, with alterations in gut microbiota dynamics being a significant factor in triggering NF-κB. Therefore, we proposed that there is a relationship among DPN, NF-κB, and gut microbiota. We conducted 16S rRNA sequencing to analyze the gut microbiota of individuals with DPN and type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and healthy controls, while also measured NF-κB levels. Our research findings indicate significant differences in the microbial composition among the three groups, particularly at the phylum level, with the control group showing a higher abundance of Firmicutes and a lower abundance of Bacteroidetes compared to the other two groups. Additionally, the α and β diversity were significantly lower in T2DM and DPN patients. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed, indicating that the Clostridiales and Trichospirillaceae were significantly associated with levels of TG, FPG, and HDL-C. Moreover, specific gut bacteria, such as Coccosia, Barnesiella, and Roseburia, demonstrated robust associations with NF-κB level, suggesting the potential role in the pathophys-iology of DPN. Individuals afflicted with T2DM and DPN present with pro-nounced dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. This gut microbiota exhibits signifi-cant correlations with key physiological markers and clinical manifestations within the affected individuals, suggesting that these microbial shifts are inte-gral to the pathogenesis and progression of diabetic complications.
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