Black rice phenolics alleviate T2DM through comprehensive regulation of oxidative stress, metabolic pathways and gut microbiota

Abstract

This study explored the potential of black rice phenolics (BRP) in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by examining their effects on oxidative stress, metabolic pathways, and gut microbiota. The results indicated that BRP significantly alleviated diabetic symptoms, lowered fasting blood glucose and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, and enhanced glucose tolerance in T2DM rats. Additionally, BRP reduced serum triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels, improved kidney and liver function, and decreased oxidative stress in plasma and liver. BRP also increased gut microbiota diversity, specifically promoting the growth of Verrucomicrobia and Akkermansia. Furthermore, BRP modulated serum, cecum, and colon metabolites, particularly those linked to tryptophan, vitamin, and lipid metabolism, offering insights into its glucose-lowering mechanisms. These findings suggest that BRP exerts anti-diabetic effects by modulating gut microbiota and metabolic pathways, thus improving glucose metabolism. This study provides a basis for developing BRP-based functional foods targeting diabetes management.