Gut microbiota and gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A systematic review

Background Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is one of the most prevalent complications of pregnancy and can cause adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. The maternal gut microbiota is involved in several metabolic functions, but it is not yet known its role in GDM physiopathology. This study aims to review the role of gut microbiota in pregnancies that evolved with GDM. Methods Systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases was performed to identify articles published until 18th August 2021 involving the assessment of gut microbiota in pregnancy. Results A total of 23 articles were selected for this review. Seventeen studies investigated differences in the gut microbiota of healthy and GDM pregnant women and showed differences in alfa and beta diversity. Six prospective studies found that microbiota changes during pregnancy and showed that some particularities in the microbiome in are associated with the risk of GDM. Conclusion This systematic review showed that there is a relationship between intestinal microbiota and GDM. Gut microbiota could be a biomarker for early detection of GDM and could be considered a potential target for modification to reduce the risk of GDM.