O papel dos ácidos graxos de cadeia curta na homeostase da glicose

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex metabolic condition characterized by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction. Emerging evidence highlights the role of the gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) such as butyrate, propionate, and acetate in regulating glycemic homeostasis and managing T2DM. This study aimed to analyze, through an integrative literature review, the impact of SCFA on glucose homeostasis. A systematic search was conducted in the Scielo, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases using controlled descriptors, resulting in the inclusion of five clinical studies published between 2017 and 2025. The findings indicate that high-fiber diets and prebiotic interventions promote beneficial modulation of the gut microbiota, increase SCFA production, and contribute to improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced GLP-1 secretion, and better beta-cell function. Additionally, SCFA demonstrated the ability to reduce systemic inflammation, improve intestinal barrier integrity, and positively influence the gut–brain axis. The magnitude of metabolic effects varied according to fiber type, intervention duration, and individual participant characteristics. In conclusion, SCFA show significant therapeutic potential as mediators between diet, microbiota, and metabolic health; however, further research is needed to personalize effective dietary strategies for T2DM management.