Nicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu

Dr. Nicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
NMNicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
Nicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
CGCristian Guja
Cristian Guja
Viorel JingaViorel Jinga
Viorel Jinga
SISorina Ispas
Sorina Ispas
ACAntoanela Curici
Antoanela Curici
Anca StoianAnca Stoian
Anca Stoian
The intestinal microbiota refers to the collection of microorganisms that exist in the human gut. It has been said that bacteria influence the development of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, as they have roles in immunomodulation, protection against pathogens, blood vessel growth, repairing the intestinal wall, and the development of the neurological system. In this review, we look at the latest research regarding interactions between gut microbiota and oral antihyperglycemic drugs and we present data suggesting that the microbiome may help counteract the reduced glucose tolerance and insulin resistance associated with metabolic disorders. We found that antidiabetic drugs can have significant impacts on gut microbiota composition and function, potentially influencing both the efficacy and side effects of these medications. Additionally, we discovered that microbial-based therapeutics, including probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics, and fecal microbiota can be considered when discussing preventive measures and personalized treatment options for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Understanding how antidiabetic drugs modulate gut microbiota composition and function is essential for optimizing their therapeutic efficacy and minimizing potential adverse effects. The relationship between the gut microbiota and glycemic agents, not fully understood, is currently the subject of increasing research and discussion. It has been proven that the microbiome can impact the effectiveness of the medications, but further research in this field may uncover novel therapeutic strategies for diabetes and other metabolic disorders by targeting the gut microbiota.

18 June 2025 in Metabolites
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
NMNicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
Nicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
CGCristian Guja
Cristian Guja
Viorel JingaViorel Jinga
Viorel Jinga
SISorina Ispas
Sorina Ispas
ACAntoanela Curici
Antoanela Curici
Anca StoianAnca Stoian
Anca Stoian
Background: The gut microbiota plays a critical role in metabolic health and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Alterations in microbial composition may influence glycemic control and systemic inflammation. Materials and methods: In this single-center, randomized study, 60 adults with T2DM receiving metformin were evaluated biologically and received either empagliflozin or sitagliptin. Demographic, metabolic, and lifestyle data were collected. Gut microbiota profiling was conducted at two timepoints to assess changes in bacterial and fungal taxa. Blood glucose, HbA1c, and inflammation markers were analyzed longitudinally. Results: Both treatment groups showed significant improvements in glycemic control. Median fasting glucose decreased from 132 to 123 mg/dL (p = 0.046) in the sitagliptin group and from 131 to 114 mg/dL (p = 0.025) in the empagliflozin group. Median HbA1c levels declined significantly in both groups, with a greater reduction in the empagliflozin group (p = 0.001 vs. p = 0.049). The microbiota analysis revealed an increase in beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus spp.) and a decrease in pro-inflammatory taxa (Escherichia coli and Streptococcus spp.). Notably, empagliflozin was associated with a more pronounced microbiota rebalancing and a significant decline in fungal overgrowth (e.g., Candida spp.; p = 0.034). Conclusions: Treatment with sitagliptin and empagliflozin led to improved glycemic outcomes and partial restoration of gut microbial balance in T2DM patients. Empagliflozin showed superior efficacy in modulating both glycemia and dysbiosis.

Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
SISorina Ispas
Sorina Ispas
Andreea Nelson TwakorAndreea Nelson Twakor
Andreea Nelson Twakor
NMNicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
Nicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
VIViorel Ispas
Viorel Ispas
DTDoina Ecaterina Tofolean
Doina Ecaterina Tofolean
Anca StoianAnca Stoian
Anca Stoian
The global rise in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) calls for an urgent focus on lifestyle interventions, particularly physical activity, as a critical factor in its management and prevention. This systematic review evaluates the impact of physical activity and sedentary behavior on glycemic control in individuals with T2DM. Studies included in this review were selected based on specific criteria: randomized controlled trials involving adults aged 18 and older, published in English between January 2018 and May 2024, with full-text availability and quantifiable outcome results. Exclusion criteria included non-peer-reviewed research, small sample sizes, and studies limited to abstracts, posters, or editorials. The analysis of the selected studies revealed that regular physical activity, including aerobic exercises and resistance training, significantly improves glycemic control as measured by fasting blood glucose (FBG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels. Reductions in sedentary behavior were also associated with better metabolic outcomes, highlighting the importance of integrating physical activity into daily routines for individuals with T2DM. These findings feature the need for continued research to refine and optimize lifestyle interventions to mitigate the global burden of T2DM.

29 April 2025 in Gastrointestinal Disorders
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
NMNicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
Nicoleta Mihaela Mindrescu
CGCristian Guja
Cristian Guja
Viorel JingaViorel Jinga
Viorel Jinga
SISorina Ispas
Sorina Ispas
ACAntoanela Curici
Antoanela Curici
Anca StoianAnca Stoian
Anca Stoian
Background: The relationship between gut microbiota and metabolic health has garnered significant attention in recent years. In this study, we aim to explore the intricate link between gut microbiota and metabolic outcomes, with a focus on lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, and living environment. Materials and Methods: We investigated the gut microbiota and metabolic profiles of adult patients with type 2 diabetes, all receiving metformin therapy, to assess how lifestyle factors impact metabolic health. Key metabolic parameters and body composition indices were measured, alongside gut microbiota composition. Results: Our cohort included 30 patients, and we identified significant associations between smoking and adverse body composition changes, as well as dietary patterns favoring plant-based foods correlating with improved metabolic outcomes. Urban participants displayed distinct microbiota profiles and metabolic markers compared to their rural counterparts, highlighting the potential influence of environmental factors. Conclusions: The current data does not directly demonstrate a causal link between metformin usage and specific changes in gut microbiota composition. These findings align with the existing literature while providing novel insights into specific population dynamics. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and interventions targeting the gut microbiota to further unravel its therapeutic potential.