Oral <i>Prevotella</i> induces fat taste impairment, visceral lipid accumulation and insulin resistance by downregulating Hedgehog signaling in taste buds.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fat taste impairment has been implicated in visceral lipid accumulation and insulin resistance, with emerging evidence linking it to the oral microbiota. However, the role and mechanisms of the oral microbiota in this process remain unclear.

Objective

We aimed to explore the manifestations of Prevotella in fat taste, visceral lipid accumulation and insulin sensitivity, as well as to elucidate the mechanism involved.

Design

We characterized the oral microbiota in humans with fat taste impairment, visceral lipid accumulation and insulin resistance, as well as in catch-up fat rats. Fat taste sensitivity, serum biochemistry and tissue morphology were assessed in rats colonized orally with Prevotella to explore potential mechanisms.

Results

SUBMITTER: Liu X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12720664 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature