How a Plant Extract May Reshape Gut Bacteria in Type 1 Diabetes

Scientists have long suspected that the trillions of bacteria living in our digestive system—our gut microbiota—play a role in Type 1 diabetes. An imbalance in these microbial communities, called dysbiosis, has been observed in people with Type 1 diabetes compared to those without the condition. Researchers are now exploring whether certain interventions can restore a healthier bacterial balance and potentially support blood sugar management.

A new study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences investigated how Dendrobium huoshanense, a plant used in traditional medicine, might influence the gut microbiota in Type 1 diabetes.

Researchers used genetic sequencing to map changes in gut bacteria in rats with chemically induced Type 1 diabetes after they received a water extract of Dendrobium huoshanense. The extract was given at a dose of 1300 mg per kilogram of body weight daily.

The results showed that the plant extract did not change the overall number of different bacterial species present (measured as alpha-diversity). However, it did shift the overall structure and composition of the bacterial community (beta-diversity) in a direction that more closely resembled that of healthy, non-diabetic rats.

Specifically, the extract reduced the relative abundance of certain bacteria, including Megamonas and Megamonas funiformis, while increasing levels of Adlercreutzia and Adlercreutzia equolifaciens. The ratio of two major bacterial groups—Bacteroidota and Bacillota—was also significantly reduced.

Beyond shifts in which bacteria were present, the researchers found that the plant extract was associated with changes in the metabolic functions these bacteria perform. The analysis identified enrichment in multiple pathways involved in breaking down various compounds and producing metabolites—including galactose metabolism, ether lipid metabolism, and the degradation of caprolactam.

These metabolic changes could be relevant to how the extract influences blood sugar, though the study did not directly measure whether these pathways improve glucose control.

This research offers an intriguing window into one possible mechanism by which Dendrobium huoshanense may exert its blood sugar-lowering effects: by reshaping the composition and function of gut bacteria. However, it is crucial to note that this work was conducted in rats with artificially induced Type 1 diabetes, not in people.

The findings do not establish whether these specific microbial changes would occur in humans, whether they would produce similar metabolic effects, or whether they would meaningfully impact blood sugar control in people with Type 1 diabetes. Much more research—including well-designed human studies—would be needed before any clinical conclusions could be drawn.

For now, this study adds to growing evidence that the gut microbiota may be a target for interventions in Type 1 diabetes, and that traditional plant remedies merit investigation through modern scientific methods.

Source: International journal of molecular sciences. Evidence type: PubMed indexed literature. Type1Cure is an information and intelligence hub, not a medical advice service. This article summarizes published research and does not provide diagnosis, treatment, or personal medical guidance. Always talk to your own care team before changing anything about your Type 1 diabetes management.