Therapeutic potential of Prevotella spp. in metabolic disorders: integrating herbal medicine and gut microbiomeOA

Recently,Prevotella spp.,a major genus of gram-negative commensal bacteria in humans,have emerged as a key microbial contributor to host metabolism due to its ability to ferment dietary fibers,produce beneficial short-chain fatty acids,and influence immune responses.However,their diversity and functional differences have created challenges for their development and therapeutic use.Recent studies have shown that specific Prevotella species,such as P.copri,P.intestinalis,and P.histicola,can strengthen gut barrier integrity and reduce metabolic imbalances.Notably,Prevotella populations can be increased through high-fiber or herbal-based treatments.Traditional herbal medicines,including fiber-rich decoctions,also demonstrate the potential to boost endogenous Prevotella communities,enhance microbial fermentation,and improve glucose and lipid balance.This perspective examines the context-dependent roles of Prevotella spp.,with emphasis on the functional heterogeneity of key species such as P.copri,suggests a framework for combining herbal modulation with species-level microbiota profiling,and outlines a research plan to explore microbe-herb synergy in treating obesity,type 2 diabetes,and related metabolic disorders.This strategy offers a new,ecology-based approach to complement standard metabolic interventions.