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Ma H, Mueed A, Liu D, Ali A, Wang T, Ibrahim M, Su L, Wang Q. Polysaccharides of Floccularia luteovirens regulate intestinal immune response, and oxidative stress activity through MAPK/Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway in immunosuppressive mice. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134140. [PMID: 39074695 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
This study explores the novel immunomodulatory effects of polysaccharides from the rare Floccularia luteovirens, a fungus with significant potential yet unexplored bioactive components, traditionally used in Tibetan medicine. This study employs a wide array of analytical techniques, including HPGPC, HPLC, western blotting, ELISA, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, to comprehensively investigate FLP1's effects. The main structure of FLP1 was characterized by IF-TR and NMR spectrometry. The structural backbone of FLP1 was →3,6)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → and →2,3)-α-D-Manp-(1→. After immunosuppressed mice treated with FLP1, the findings demonstrated that FLP1 stimulated the production of secretory sIgA and secretion of cytokines (IL-4, TNF-α, and IFN-γ) in the intestine of Cy-treated mice, resulting in the activation of the MAPK pathway. Additionally, FLP1 protected oxidative stress by triggering Nrf2/Keap1 pathways and antioxidation enzymes (SOD, MDA, T-AOC, CAT, and GSH-Px). It also enhanced the intestinal barrier function by regulating the villous height ratio and expression of tight-junction protein. Furthermore, FLP1 remarkably reversed the gut microbiota dysbiosis in immunosuppressed mice by increasing the abundance of Oscilliospiraceae, and Lachnospiraceae, and altered the fecal metabolites by increasing LysoPE (0:0/18:0); 0:0/16:0; 18:1(11Z)/0:0, LysoPG (16:0/0:0), LysoPG 18:1 (2n) PE (14:0/20:1), echinenone, 2-(2-Nitroimidazol-1-yl)-N-(2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropyl) acetamide, and suberic acid which is closely related to the immunity function. These results suggested that FLP1 may regulate the intestinal immune response by modulating the gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in immunosuppressed mice thereby activating the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Ma
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Abdul Mueed
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Daiyao Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Akhtar Ali
- School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, the University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Tianci Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Muhammad Ibrahim
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Ling Su
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Qi Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130012, China.
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Duan J, Du P, Jiang T, Ma X, Sun J, Liang J, Wang J, Liu C. Exploring the mechanism of enterotoxicity mediated by the microbiome-butyrate-PPAR axis in podophyllotoxin through the toxicological evidence chain (TEC) concept. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 280:116548. [PMID: 38850705 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Podophyllotoxin (PPT) is a lignan derived from the roots and stems of the Podophyllum plant. However, its enterotoxicity restricts its clinical application. The underlying mechanisms by which PPT exerts its action remain largely elusive. This study aimed to evaluate the molecular mechanisms underlying PPT-induced enterotoxicity utilizing the concept of toxicological evidence chain. Changes in body weight, behavior, and histopathological and biochemical markers in rats were observed. Additionally, microbiome, metabolome, and transcriptome analyses were integrated to identify potential microorganisms, metabolic markers, and major pathways using a co-occurrence network. Our findings suggested that PPT induced pathological changes in rats, including weight loss, diarrhea, and inflammation accompanied by increased levels of IFN-γ, IL-5, IL-6, GRO/KC, and IL-12p70. The decrease in butyrate levels in the PPT group may be related to the enrichment of Firmicutes. The reduction of butyrate levels may impair the expression of PPARγ, subsequently promoting Escherichia-Shigella proliferation. Additionally, the suppression of PPARs pathway may result in the increased production of inflammatory factors, contributing to enterotoxicity. This study offers a novel understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying PPT-induced enterotoxicity, making a significant contribution to developing strategies to mitigate PPT toxicity and prevent associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Duan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Peipei Du
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Xiao Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Jiaxing Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Jin Liang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Chuanxin Liu
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Multiomics and Translational Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
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Cheng H, Yang Y, Hu J, Chen L, Yuan M, Du H, Xu Z, Qiu Z. Cyclic adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate (cAMP) signaling is a crucial therapeutic target for ulcerative colitis. Life Sci 2024; 353:122901. [PMID: 38997063 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic intestine inflammatory disease primarily affecting adolescents, remains uncertain. Contemporary studies suggest that a confluence of elements, including genetic predispositions, environmental catalysts, dysregulated immune responses, and disturbances in the gut microbiome, are instrumental in the initiation and advancement of UC. Among them, inflammatory activation and mucosal barrier damage caused by abnormal immune regulation are essential links in the development of UC. The impairment of the mucosal barrier is intricately linked to the interplay of various cellular mechanisms, including oxidative stress, autophagy, and programmed cell death. An extensive corpus of research has elucidated that level of cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) undergo modifications in the midst of inflammation and participate in a diverse array of cellular operations that mitigate inflammation and the impairment of the mucosal barrier. Consequently, a plethora of pharmacological agents are currently under development, with some advancing through clinical trials, and are anticipated to garner approval as novel therapeutics. In summary, cAMP exerts a crucial influence on the onset and progression of UC, with fluctuations in its activity being intimately associated with the severity of the disease's manifestation. Significantly, this review unveils the paramount role of cAMP in the advancement of UC, offering a tactical approach for the clinical management of individuals afflicted with UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixiang Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Yang
- Institute of Maternal and Child Health, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430016, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjie Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongzhi Du
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization for Liver Diseases, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China; Hubei Shizhen Laboratory, Wuhan, 430061, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ziqiang Xu
- College of Health Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhenpeng Qiu
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization for Liver Diseases, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China; Hubei Shizhen Laboratory, Wuhan, 430061, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Resources and Chemistry of Chinese Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, People's Republic of China.
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Hu Y, Tang J, Xie Y, Xu W, Zhu W, Xia L, Fang J, Yu D, Liu J, Zheng Z, Zhou Q, Shou Q, Zhang W. Gegen Qinlian decoction ameliorates TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis by regulating Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells balance, inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and reshaping gut microbiota. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 328:117956. [PMID: 38428658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Chinese herbal medicine Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) has been clinically shown to be an effective treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) in China. However, the underlying mechanism of GQD's anti-ulcerative colitis properties and its effect on gut microbiota still deserve further exploration. AIM OF THE STUDY This study observed the regulatory effects of GQD on Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells balance, the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) infammasome and gut microbiota in TNBS-induced UC in BALB/c mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS 61 main chemical compounds in the GQD were determined by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. The UC BALB/c model was established by intrarectal administration of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS), and GQD was orally administered at low and high dosages of 2.96 and 11.83 g/kg/day, respectively. The anti-inflammatory effects of GQD for ulcerative colitis were evaluated by survival rate, body weight, disease activity index (DAI) score, colonic weight and index, spleen index, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and histopathological scores. Flow cytometry was used to detect the percentage of CD4, Th1, Th2, Th17 and Tregs cells. The levels of Th1-/Th2-/Th17-/Tregs-related inflammatory cytokines and additional proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-18) were detected by CBA, ELISA, and RT-PCR. The expressions of GATA3, T-bet, NLRP3, Caspase-1, IL-Iβ, Occludin and Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) on colon tissues were detected by Western blot and RT-PCR. Transcriptome sequencing was performed using colon tissue and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed on intestinal contents. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was employed to assess the contribution of intestinal microbiota and its correlation with CD4 T cells and the NLRP3 inflammasome. RESULTS GQD increased the survival rate of TNBS-induced UC in BALB/c mice, and significantly improved their body weight, DAI score, colonic weight and index, spleen index, and histological characteristics. The intestinal barrier dysfunction was repaired after GQD administration through promoting the expression of tight junction proteins (Occludin and ZO-1). GQD restored the balance of Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells immune response of colitis mice, primarily inhibiting the increase in Th2/Th1 ratio and their transcription factor production (GATA3 and T-bet). Morever, GQD changed the secretion of Th1-/Th2-/Th17-/Tregs-related cytokines (IL-2, IL-12, IL-5, IL-13, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-17A) and reduced the expressions of IL-1β, IL-18. Transcriptome results suggested that GQD could also remodel the immune inflammatory response of colitis by inhibiting NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, and Western blot, immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR further revealed that GQD exerted anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome, such as down-regulating the expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1 and IL-1β. More interestingly, GQD regulated gut microbiota dysbiosis, suppressed the overgrowth of conditional pathogenic gut bacteria like Helicobacter, Proteobacteria, and Mucispirillum, while the probiotic gut microbiota, such as Lactobacillus, Muribaculaceae, Ruminiclostridium_6, Akkermansia, and Ruminococcaceae_unclassified were increased. We further confirmed that GQD-treated gut microbiota was sufficient to relieve TNBS-induced colitis by FMT, involving the modulation of Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 balance, inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and enhancement of colonic barrier function. CONCLUSIONS GQD might alleviate TNBS-induced UC via regulating Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells Balance, inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and reshaping gut microbiota, which may provide a novel strategy for patients with colitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingnan Hu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jingyi Tang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Yongfeng Xie
- Department of Burn Plastic Surgery, Huai'an Hospital Affiliated to Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 223001, China
| | - Wenjun Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Weihan Zhu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Linying Xia
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhoushan, 316000, China
| | - Jintao Fang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Dian Yu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Haining City Central Hospital, Jiaxing, 314408, China
| | - Zhipeng Zheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China
| | - Qiujing Zhou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China
| | - Qiyang Shou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China.
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Wu Y, Fang Y, Li Y, Au R, Cheng C, Li W, Xu F, Cui Y, Zhu L, Shen H. A network pharmacology approach and experimental validation to investigate the anticancer mechanism of Qi-Qin-Hu-Chang formula against colitis-associated colorectal cancer through induction of apoptosis via JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117323. [PMID: 37852337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The Qi-Qin-Hu-Chang Formula (QQHCF) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription that is clinically used at the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine for the treatment of colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of QQHCF on a CAC mouse model and investigate its underlying mechanisms using network pharmacology and experimental validation. MATERIALS AND METHODS The active components and potential targets of QQHCF were obtained from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) and herb-ingredient-targets gene network were constructed by Cytoscape 3.9.2. Target genes of CAC were obtained from GeneCards, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, and DrugBank database. The drug disease target protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed and the core targets were visualized and identified using Cytoscape. The Metascape database was used for GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. UHPLC-MS/MS was used to further identify the active compounds in QQHCF. Subsequently, the therapeutic effects and potential mechanism of QQHCF against CAC were investigated in AOM/DSS-induced CAC mouse in vivo, and HT-29 and HCT116 cells in vitro. Finally, interactions between JNK, p38, and active ingredients were assessed by molecular docking. RESULTS A total of 176 active compounds, 273 potential therapeutic targets, and 2460 CAC-related target genes were obtained. The number of common targets between QQHCF and CAC were 165. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the MAPK signaling pathway was closely associated with CAC, which may be the potential mechanism of QQHCF against CAC. Network pharmacology and UHPLC-MS/MS analyses showed that the active compounds of QQHCF included quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, wogonin, oxymatrine, lupanine, and baicalin. Animal experiments demonstrated that QQHCF reduced tumor load, number, and size in AOM/DSS-treated mice, and induced apoptosis in colon tissue. In vitro experiments further showed that QQHCF induced apoptosis and inhibited cell viability, migration, and invasion in HCT116 and HT-29 cells. Notably, QQHCF activated the JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway both in vivo and in vitro. Molecular docking analysis revealed an ability for the main components of QQHCF and JNK/p38 to bind. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated that QQHCF could ameliorate AOM/DSS-induced CAC in mice by activating the JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. These results have important implications for the development of effective treatment strategies for CAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuguang Wu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yulai Fang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yanan Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ryan Au
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | - Cheng Cheng
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Weiyang Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yuan Cui
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Hong Shen
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China.
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Xu F, Yu P, Wu H, Liu M, Liu H, Zeng Q, Wu D, Wang X. Aqueous extract of Sargentodoxa cuneata alleviates ulcerative colitis and its associated liver injuries in mice through the modulation of intestinal flora and related metabolites. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1295822. [PMID: 38328432 PMCID: PMC10847537 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1295822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a refractory disease worldwide. Liver injury can be found clinically with UC, and now, it is found that gut dysbiosis is an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of UC. Sargentodoxa cuneata has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine and is commonly used clinically for the treatment of UC. The main objective of this study was to investigate the intrinsic mechanisms of Sargentodoxa cuneata in the treatment of UC and its associated liver injuries from the perspective of intestinal flora and related metabolites. Methods Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to identify the components in the aqueous extract of Sargentodoxa cuneata (AESc). Mice with UC induced by dextran sulfate sodium were used to study the effects of AESc on UC and its associated liver injuries. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and analysis were performed on intestinal contents, and correlation analysis of intestinal flora with short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and organic acids was performed. Results A total of 114 compounds were identified in AESc. AESc improved disease activity index scores, liver index, and colon length in mice with UC and had a good protective effect on intestine and liver injuries. Moreover, the administration of AESc regulated gut microbiota dysbiosis and the levels of a few SCFAs and organic acids in mice with UC. In addition, the correlation analysis results showed that the Megamonas and Bifidobacterium were the key intestinal flora related to the levels of differential SCFAs and organic acids in mice with UC after AESc intervention. Conclusion AESc has a good protective effect on UC and UC related liver injuries. Modulation of the intestinal flora and its metabolites (SCFAs and a few organic acids) is an important pathway for AESc in the treatment of UC and also provides a rationale for the clinical use of Sargentodoxa cuneata in the treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Piao Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Hongmei Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Hongyun Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Qian Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Dengli Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiangpei Wang
- School of Chinese Ethnic Medicine, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang, China
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Song H, Guo R, Sun X, Kou Y, Ma X, Chen Y, Song L, Wu Y. Integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics revealed the anti-constipation mechanisms of xylooligosaccharides from corn cobs. Food Funct 2024; 15:894-905. [PMID: 38168976 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo04366e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Xylooligosaccharides (XOSs) have recently garnered interest for their potential as an anti-constipation agent. In this study, we investigated the effects of XOSs derived from corn cobs on constipation in mice through a comprehensive analysis of both the metabolome and transcriptome. Our multi-omics approach revealed that XOSs primarily modulated butanoate metabolism and steroid hormone biosynthesis pathways, as well as key signaling pathways such as PPAR and NF-kappa B. Notably, we observed a decrease in inflammatory biomarker expression and an elevation of butyric acid metabolite levels with XOSs treatment. A deeper analysis of gene expression and metabolite alterations highlighted significant changes in genes encoding critical enzymes and metabolites involved in these pathways. Overall, these findings underscore the considerable potential of XOSs derived from corn cobs as a dietary supplement for effectively alleviating constipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Song
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Rui Guo
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Xianbao Sun
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Yuxing Kou
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Xuan Ma
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Yinan Chen
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Lihua Song
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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Li H, Lv N, Li D, Qian Y, Si X, Hua Y, Wang Y, Han X, Xu T. Tongbian decoction restores intestinal microbiota and activates 5-hydroxytryptamine signaling: implication in slow transit constipation. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1296163. [PMID: 38287961 PMCID: PMC10822989 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1296163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Slow transit constipation (STC) is a type of functional constipation. The detailed mechanism of STC, for which there is currently no effective treatment, is unknown as of yet. Tongbian decoction (TBD), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, is commonly used to treat STC in clinical settings. However, the potential impact of TBD on the management of STC via modulation of the gut microbiota remains unclear. Methods Pseudo-germ-free rats were constructed after 6 days of treatment with bacitracin, neomycin, and streptomycin (abbreviated as ABX forthwith). Based on the successful construction of pseudo-germ-free rats, the STC model (ABX + STC) was induced using loperamide hydrochloride. After successful modeling, based on the different sources of donor rat microbiota, the ABX + STC rats were randomly divided into three groups: Control → ABX + STC, STC → ABX + STC, and STC + TBD → ABX + STC for fecal microbiota transplant (FMT). Body weight, fecal water content, and charcoal power propelling rate of the rats were recorded. Intestinal microbiota was detected by 16S rRNA sequencing, and the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) signaling pathway was examined by western blots, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemical analysis. Results After treatment with fecal bacterial solutions derived from rats treated with Tongbian decoction (TBD), there was an increase in body weight, fecal water content, and the rate of charcoal propulsion in the rats. Additionally, activation of the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) signaling pathway was observed. The 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that the fecal bacterial solution from TBD-treated rats affected the intestinal microbiota of STC rats by increasing the proliferation of beneficial bacteria and suppressing the expansion of harmful bacteria. Conclusion Our study showed that TBD alleviated constipation in STC rats by modulating the structure of the intestinal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjia Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Na Lv
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Dongna Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunzhi Qian
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Xianghuan Si
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanqing Hua
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yujuan Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Han
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianshu Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Wei L, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Yan L, Liu B, Cao Z, Zhao N, He X, Li L, Lu C. Intestinal Escherichia coli and related dysfunction as potential targets of Traditional Chinese Medicine for respiratory infectious diseases. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 313:116381. [PMID: 36940735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has saved countless lives and maintained human health over its long history, especially in respiratory infectious diseases. The relationship between the intestinal flora and the respiratory system has been a popular research topic in recent years. According to the theory of the "gut-lung axis" in modern medicine and the idea that "the lung stands in an interior-exterior relationship with the large intestine" in TCM, gut microbiota dysbiosis is a contributing factor to respiratory infectious diseases, and there is potential means for manipulation of the gut microbiota in the treatment of lung diseases. Emerging studies have indicated intestinal Escherichia coli (E. coli) overgrowth in multiple respiratory infectious diseases, which could exacerbate respiratory infectious diseases by disrupting immune homeostasis, the gut barrier and metabolic balance. TCM is an effective microecological regulator, that can regulate the intestinal flora including E. coli, and restore the balance of the immune system, gut barrier, and metabolism. AIM OF THE REVIEW This review discusses the changes and effects of intestinal E. coli in respiratory infection, as well as the role of TCM in the intestinal flora, E. coli and related immunity, the gut barrier and the metabolism, thereby suggesting the possibility of TCM therapy regulating intestinal E. coli and related immunity, the gut barrier and the metabolism to alleviate respiratory infectious diseases. We aimed to make a modest contribution to the research and development of new therapies for intestinal flora in respiratory infectious diseases and the full utilization of TCM resources. Relevant information about the therapeutic potential of TCM to regulate intestinal E. coli against diseases was collected from PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and so on. The Plants of the World Online (https://wcsp.science.kew.org) and the Plant List (www.theplantlist.org) databases were used to provide the scientific names and species of plants. RESULTS Intestinal E. coli is a very important bacterium in respiratory infectious diseases that affects the respiratory system through immunity, the gut barrier and the metabolism. Many TCMs can inhibit the abundance of E. coli and regulate related immunity, the gut barrier and the metabolism to promote lung health. CONCLUSION TCM targeting intestinal E. coli and related immune, gut barrier, and metabolic dysfunction could be a potential therapy to promote the treatment and prognosis of respiratory infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lini Wei
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China
| | - Lulu Zhang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China
| | - Lan Yan
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China
| | - Bin Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China
| | - Zhiwen Cao
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China
| | - Ning Zhao
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China
| | - Xiaojuan He
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China.
| | - Li Li
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China.
| | - Cheng Lu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, PR China.
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