Akkermansia and Bacteroides Abundance, Significance, and Therapeutic Potential in Obesity and Associated Metabolic Dysfunction by Systematic Review of Clinical and Sequencing Data

Background: Dysbiosis, an imbalance of the gut microbiome, is a key driver of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. This systematic review investigates the abundance and therapeutic potential of Akkermansia and Bacteroides as microbial biomarkers. Methods: Following PRISMA recommendations, we analyzed 154 records from PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect (2009-2025). Data were synthesized from 28 high-impact clinical and sequencing studies, comparing regional (Pakistan) and global datasets. Results: Akkermansia muciniphila showed a consistent inverse correlation with obesity. Conversely, Bacteroides species exhibited a dual role, with some strains linked to leanness and others to increased energy harvest. Notably, pasteurized Akkermansia demonstrated superior stability and potential for reducing gut permeability compared to live cultures. Conclusion: Targeted modulation of these genera offers a viable pathway for managing metabolic syndrome. In regions like Pakistan (ranked 9th globally in obesity), stable postbiotics like pasteurized Akkermansia provide a practical public health solution.