To evaluate the correlation between alterations in gut microbiota and the existence, severity, and prognosis of diabetic retinopathy (DR), highlighting its potential clinical significance.
Approach:
Key Findings:
Alterations in gut microbiota are linked to diabetic retinopathy severity, suggesting a need for further investigation into therapeutic interventions.
Dysbiosis may amplify systemic risk factors for DR, including chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, indicating a potential target for treatment.
Meta-analysis indicated significant differences in α-diversity indices between DR, DM, and HC groups, underscoring the importance of gut health in diabetes management.
Interpretation:
The findings suggest a potential gut-eye axis where gut microbiota may influence retinal health, providing a novel modifiable pathway in DR pathogenesis with implications for future therapeutic strategies.
Limitations:
The review was not preregistered in PROSPERO.
Most studies were conducted in China, which may limit generalizability.
Potential biases in study design and reporting may affect the reliability of the findings.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the importance of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy and suggests further research into this relationship.
