Gut Microbiota and Peptides: Key Players in Obesity

Obesity is a growing global epidemic associated with various metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. The gut microbiota has emerged as a key player in obesity, influencing metabolic homeostasis through its interaction with gut peptides that regulate appetite and energy balance. This cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between gut microbiota composition and fasting gut peptides in people with obesity (POB) and normal weight (NW) Lebanese individuals. The study recruited 53 participants (30 POB, 23 NW) and assessed anthropometric, biochemical, and gut microbiota profiles. Results indicated significant differences in gut microbiota composition between the groups, with Lachnoclostridium being abundant in individuals with obesity and Peptococcus, Ruminococcus, and others more prevalent in NW individuals. Gut peptides such as ghrelin, GLP-1, and PYY showed significant associations with specific bacterial genera, suggesting a potential role of gut microbiota in metabolic regulation. Notably, GLP-1 levels were higher in POB and negatively associated with Butyricimonas and Ruminococcaceae species, while PYY levels were also higher in POB and negatively correlated with Alistipes and Parasutterella. These findings highlight the intricate interplay between gut microbiota and metabolic hormones, providing insights into potential microbiota-based strategies for obesity management. Further research is needed to understand casual links, the underlying mechanisms and their implications for therapeutic interventions.