Abstract <p>BACKGROUND: Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes, characterized by neuropathic pain and inflammation. Its pathogenesis involves oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and dysfunction of the spinal cord glymphatic system. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Ginkgolide B (GB) in alleviating PDN, with a particular focus on its roles in modulating the gut microbiota and enhancing glymphatic function in the spinal cord.