As one of the most abundant plant polyphenols in the human diet, (−)-epicatechin (EC) can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate glucose homeostasis. However, the primary mechanisms involved in EC anti-T2DM benefits remain unclear. The present study explored the effects of EC on the gut microbiota and liver transcriptome in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) Goto–Kakizaki rats for the first time. The findings showed that EC protected glucose homeostasis, alleviated systemic oxidative stress, relieved liver damage, and increased serum insulin. ...
