Polysaccharides from Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat ameliorate colitis rats by modulating the intestinal microbiota community

Research progress in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease with natural polysaccharides and related structure-activity relationships

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) comprises a group of highly prevalent and chronic inflammatory intestinal tract diseases caused by multiple factors. Despite extensive research into the causes of the disease, IBD's pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear. Moreover, side effects of current IBD therapies restrict their long-term clinical use. In contrast, natural polysaccharides exert beneficial anti-IBD effects and offer advantages over current anti-IBD drugs, including enhanced safety and straightforward isolation from abundant and reliable sources, and thus may serve as components of functional foods and health products for use in IBD prevention and treatment. However, few reviews have explored natural polysaccharides with anti-IBD activities or the relationship between polysaccharide conformation and anti-IBD biological activity. Therefore, this review aims to summarize anti-IBD activities and potential clinical applications of polysaccharides isolated from plant, animal, microorganismal, and algal sources, while also exploring the relationship between polysaccharide conformation and anti-IBD bioactivity for the first time. Furthermore, potential mechanisms underlying polysaccharide anti-IBD effects are summarized, including intestinal microbiota modulation, intestinal inflammation alleviation, and intestinal barrier protection from IBD-induced damage. Ultimately, this review provides a theoretical foundation and valuable insights to guide the development of natural polysaccharide-containing functional foods and nutraceuticals for use as dietary IBD therapies.

Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat extract and probiotics combination ameliorates metabolic disorders through regulating gut microbiota and PPARα subcellular localization

BACKGROUND

Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat, a traditional Chinese medicine, has the effects on liver clearing, vision improving, and anti-inflammation. C. morifolium and probiotics have been individually studied for their beneficial effects on metabolic diseases. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms were not completely elucidated. This study aims to elucidate the potential molecular mechanisms of C. morifolium and probiotics combination (CP) on alleviating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the dysregulation of glucose metabolism in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice.

METHODS

The therapeutic effect of CP on metabolism was evaluated by liver histology and serum biochemical analysis, as well as glucose tolerance test. The impact of CP on gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing and fecal microbiota transplantation. Hepatic transcriptomic analysis was performed with the key genes and proteins validated by RT-qPCR and western blotting. In addition, whole body Pparα knockout (Pparα-/-) mice were used to confirm the CP-mediated pathway.

RESULTS

CP supplementation ameliorated metabolic disorders by reducing body weight and hepatic steatosis, and improving glucose intolerance and insulin resistance in HFD fed mice. CP intervention mitigated the HFD-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, which contributed at least in part, to the beneficial effect of improving glucose metabolism. In addition, hepatic transcriptomic analysis showed that CP modulated the expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism. CP downregulated the mRNA level of lipid droplet-binding proteins, such as Cidea and Cidec in the liver, leading to more substrates for fatty acid oxidation (FAO). Meanwhile, the expression of CPT1α, the rate-limiting enzyme of FAO, was significantly increased upon CP treatment. Mechanistically, though CP didn't affect the total PPARα level, it promoted the nuclear localization of PPARα, which contributed to the reduced expression of Cidea and Cidec, and increased expression of CPT1α, leading to activated FAO. Moreover, whole body PPARα deficiency abolished the anti-NAFLD effect of CP, suggesting the importance of PPARα in CP-mediated beneficial effect.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed the hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective effect of CP by regulating gut microbiota composition and PPARα subcellular localization, highlighting its potential for therapeutic candidate for metabolic disorders.

Phenolic acids from Chicory roots ameliorate dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice by targeting TRP signaling pathways and the gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a type of immune-mediated condition associated with intestinal homeostasis. Our preliminary studies disclosed that Cichorium intybus L., a traditional medicinal plant, also known as Chicory in Western countries, contained substantial phenolic acids displaying significant anti-inflammatory activities. We recognized the potential of harnessing Chicory for the treatment of IBD, prompting a need for in-depth investigation into the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

On the third day, mice were given 100, 200 mg/kg of total phenolic acids (PA) from Chicory and 200 mg/kg of sulfasalazine (SASP) via gavage, while dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) concentration was 2.5 % for one week. The study measured and evaluated various health markers including body weight, disease activity index (DAI), colon length, spleen index, histological score, serum concentrations of myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid oxidation (MDA), and inflammatory factors. We evaluated the TRP family and the NLRP3 inflammatory signaling pathways by Western blot, while 16S rDNA sequencing was used to track the effects of PA on gut microbes.

RESULTS

It was shown that PA ameliorated the weight loss trend, attenuated inflammatory damage, regulated oxidative stress levels, and repaired the intestinal barrier in DSS mice. Analyses of Western blots demonstrated that PA suppressed what was expressed of transient receptor potential family TRPV4, TRPA1, and the expression of NLRP3 inflammatory signaling pathway, NLRP3 and GSDMD. In addition, PA exerted therapeutic effects on IBD by regulating gut microbiota richness and diversity. Meanwhile, the result of the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment analysis showed that gut microbiota was mainly related to Membrane Transport, Replication and Repair, Carbohydrate Metabolism and Amino Acid Metabolism.

CONCLUSION

PA derived from Chicory may have therapeutic effects on IBD by regulating the TRPV4/NLRP3 signaling pathway and gut microbiome. This study provides new insights into the effects of phenolic acids from Chicory on TRP ion channels and gut microbiota, revealing previously unexplored modes of action.

Simultaneously efficient dissolution and structural modification of chrysanthemum pectin: Targeting at proliferation of Bacteroides

Pectic polysaccharide is a bioactive ingredient in Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. 'Hangbaiju' (CMH), but the high proportion of HG domain limited its use as a prebiotic. In this study, hot water, cellulase-assisted, medium-temperature alkali, and deep eutectic solvent extraction strategies were firstly used to extract pectin from CMH (CMHP). CMHP obtained by cellulase-assisted extraction had high purity and strong ability to promote the proliferation of Bacteroides and mixed probiotics. However, 4 extraction strategies led to general high proportion of HG domain in CMHPs. To further enhance the dissolution and prebiotic potential of CMHP, pectinase was used alone and combined with cellulase. The key factor for the optimal extraction was enzymolysis by cellulase and pectinase in a mass ratio of 3:1 at 1 % (w/w) dosage. The optimal CMHP had high yield (15.15 %), high content of total sugar, and Bacteroides proliferative activity superior to inulin, which was probably due to the cooperation of complex enzyme on the destruction of cell wall and pectin structural modification for raised RG-I domain (80.30 %) with relatively high degree of branching and moderate HG domain. This study provided a green strategy for extraction of RG-I enriched prebiotic pectin from plants.

Molecular Mechanism of Polysaccharides Extracted from Chinese Medicine Targeting Gut Microbiota for Promoting Health

The accumulating evidence revealed that gut microbiota plays an important role in pathological process of disease including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart failure, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Polysaccharides extracted from Chinese medicine (CM) can not only alleviate pathological status but also promote health by anti-inflammatory, regulating immunity, lowering blood glucose and lipids, anti-cancer, and anti-oxidation. The alterations of gut microbiota composition and metabolism pathways are the potential mechanisms of CM polysaccharides treatment. In addition, they exert functions through gut-organ axis or play an indirect role by synergistic actions with other drugs or components mediated by gut microbiota. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms of CM polysaccharides interacted with intestinal microbial inhabitants as potential prebiotics for promoting health.

Anti-inflammatory and intestinal microbiota modulation properties of Ganoderma lucidum β-d-glucans with different molecular weight in an ulcerative colitis model

This study systematically investigated the therapeutic effects and the corresponding mechanisms of β-D-glucans from Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) with different molecular weights (Mws) on ulcerative colitis (UC). Results showed that three β-d-glucans (GLPS, GLPN and GLPW) from G. lucidum with different Mws exhibited the significant activities on the reduction of typical symptoms of UC by regulating inflammatory cytokine levels, modulating intestinal immunity, improving intestinal microbiota and metabolism of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mice model. Among them, the effects of the microwave assisted degraded fraction (GLPW) mainly containing two fractions with smaller Mw (1.33 × 104 and 3.51 × 103 g/mol) on the regulation of inflammatory factors and SCFAs metabolism were found to be comparable to those of GLPN with medium Mw (3.49 × 104 g/mol), and superior to those of GLPS with large Mw (2.42 × 106 g/mol). The effect of GLPW on regulation of intestinal microbiota was even better than that of GLPN. These findings suggested that lowering Mw by means of physical degradation could improve the anti-inflammatory activities of G. lucidum β-d-glucans. The analysis of anti-inflammatory mechanism also provided a feasible and theoretical basis for potential use of degraded β-d-glucans in the prevention and treatment of UC.

Blueberry and Blackberry Anthocyanins Ameliorate Metabolic Syndrome by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids Metabolism in High-Fat Diet-Fed C57BL/6J Mice

In this study, blueberry (Vaccinium ssp.) anthocyanins (VA) and blackberry (Rubus L.) anthocyanins (RA) were used to investigate the effects on metabolic syndrome (MetS) and the potential mechanisms. Importantly, all of the data presented in this study were obtained from experiments conducted on mice. As a result, VA and RA reduced body weight gain and fat accumulation while improving liver damage, inflammation, glucose, and lipid metabolism induced by a high-fat diet. Moreover, VA and RA regulated the gut microbiota composition, decreasing the pro-obesity and proinflammation bacteria taxa, such as the phylum Actinobacterium and the genera Allobaculum and Bifidobacterium, and increasing those negatively associated with obesity and inflammation, such as the phylum Bacteroidetes and the genera Prevotella and Oscillospira. Additionally, the supplementation with VA and RA reversed the elevated levels of valeric, caproic, and isovaleric acids observed in the high-fat diet (HFD) group, bringing them closer to the levels observed in the Chow group. This reversal indicated that alterations in the composition and abundance of gut microbiota may contribute to the restoration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels. Additionally, PICRUSt2 exhibited that cyanamino acid metabolism and betalain biosynthesis might be the major metabolic pathways in the HVA group compared with the HFD group, while in the HRA group, it was the phosphotransferase system. These findings suggest that VA and RA can ameliorate MetS by modulating the gut microbiota and production of SCFAs.

Optimization of aqueous extraction of antioxidants from Chrysanthemum (C. morifolium Ramat and C. indicum L.) flowers and evaluation of their protection from glycoxidation damage on human αA-crystallin

Chrysanthemum tea is commonly consumed by Chinese consumers mainly due to the Chrysanthemum flower being a potential source of antioxidants. The current study investigates the effects of extraction time and temperature on Chrysanthemum flower aqueous extract (CFAE) antioxidant capacity, including Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), ferrous iron-chelating activity, and superoxide radical scavenging capacity (SRSC) using a two-factor, three-level factorial design of the response surface method (RSM). The TEAC and SRSC of CFAE are higher at higher temperatures and longer times up to a certain point, and the highest TEAC and SRSC are achieved at a 100 °C extraction temperature for 45 min. The fructose induced-αA-crystallin (Cry) glycation model system was used to evaluate the effects of the CFAE on anti-glycoxidation activities. The antioxidant ingredients obtained from CFAE significantly impede the production of advanced glycation end products from protein glycoxidation products (dityrosine, kynurenine, and N'-methylkynurenine) in the glycation process of αA-Cry and exhibit strong anti-glycating activity. The glycation inhibitory effects of CFAE are concentration-dependent. C. indicum L. exhibits greater potential for preventing cataracts compared to C. morifolium Ramat CFAE's antioxidant and anti-glycation properties suggest its potential application as a natural ingredient in the development of agents to combat glycation.

Anticancer Effects of Washed-Dehydrated Solar Salt Doenjang on Colon Cancer-Induced C57BL/6 Mice

This study researched the mineral composition of Korean washed-dehydrated solar salt (WDS) without bittern. It also evaluated the anticancer effects of doenjang (WDSD) prepared using WDS on azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colon cancer in C57BL/6 mice. The mineral composition of WDS showed lower Mg (11.71 ± 1.89 g/kg) and S (9.77 ± 2.88 g/kg) contents, and it was confirmed that mice in the WDSD group (AOM/DSS+WDSD) displayed significantly lower weight loss, colon length reduction, and tumor formation compared with the control (Con) group. In addition, pathologically, it was confirmed that the extent of epithelial cell damage and inflammation in the colon tissue of the WDSD group was restored to a state similar to that of the Nor group. Besides, WDSD regulated the protein expression of apoptosis (Bcl-2-associated X protein [Bax], B cell lymphoma-2 [Bcl-2], B cell lymphoma-extra large [Bcl-xL], and caspase 9, caspase 3), and p53, p21, and proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α), thereby inducing the apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of cancer cells and suppressing inflammation. In addition, the intestinal microbiota of the mice treated with WDSD were more diverse, with an abundance of Bifidobacterium, a lactic acid bacterium beneficial to colon health, was also a greater presence of Faecalibaculum, which showed antitumor effects. These results indicate that solar salts and their different processing methods affect their functional health-promoting properties. In addition, the inhibitory effect on colon cancer was further enhanced when doenjang was prepared with WDS with low Mg and S content.

Immunological mechanisms of inflammatory diseases caused by gut microbiota dysbiosis: A review

The gut microbiota is indispensable for maintaining host health by enhancing the host's digestive capacity, safeguarding the intestinal epithelial barrier, and preventing pathogen invasion. Additionally, the gut microbiota exhibits a bidirectional interaction with the host immune system and promotes the immune system of the host to mature. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, primarily caused by factors such as host genetic susceptibility, age, BMI, diet, and drug abuse, is a significant contributor to inflammatory diseases. However, the mechanisms underlying inflammatory diseases resulting from gut microbiota dysbiosis lack systematic categorization. In this study, we summarize the normal physiological functions of symbiotic microbiota in a healthy state and demonstrate that when dysbiosis occurs due to various external factors, the normal physiological functions of the gut microbiota are lost, leading to pathological damage to the intestinal lining, metabolic disorders, and intestinal barrier damage. This, in turn, triggers immune system disorders and eventually causes inflammatory diseases in various systems. These discoveries provide fresh perspectives on how to diagnose and treat inflammatory diseases. However, the unrecognized variables that might affect the link between inflammatory illnesses and gut microbiota, need further studies and extensive basic and clinical research will still be required to investigate this relationship in the future.

Chemical basis and self-assembly mechanism of submicroparticles forming in chrysanthemum tea infusion

Submicroparticles are important components generally existed in chrysanthemum tea infusion, but their functionality, chemical composition, structure and self-assembly mechanism are unclear due to lack of suitable preparation method and research strategy. This study showed that submicroparticles promoted the intestinal absorption of phenolics in chrysanthemum tea infusion by comparison of chrysanthemum tea infusion, submicroparticles-free chrysanthemum tea infusion and submicroparticles. Submicroparticles efficiently prepared by ultrafiltration mainly consisting of polysaccharide and phenolics accounted for 22% of total soluble solids in chrysanthemum tea infusion. The polysaccharide, which was determined as esterified pectin with a spherical conformation, provided spherical skeleton to form submicroparticles. A total of 23 individual phenolic compounds were identified in submicroparticles with the total phenolic content of 7.63 μg/mL. The phenolics not only attached to the external region of spherical pectin by hydrogen bonds, but also got into hydrophobic cavities of spherical pectin and attached to the internal region by hydrophobic interactions.

Gut microbiota and its relation to inflammation in patients with bipolar depression: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

To explore the gut microbiota characteristics in depressed patients with bipolar disorder (BD) as well as the connection between the gut microbiota and inflammatory markers.

METHODS

Totally 72 depressed BD patients and 16 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled in the study. Blood and feces samples were taken from each subject. With the help of 16S-ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, the characteristics of the gut microbiota in each participant were examined. Correlation analysis was then utilized to assess the relationship between the gut microbiota and clinical parameters.

RESULTS

We found the taxonomic composition of the gut microbiota, but not its diversity, was significantly different in BD patients compared to HCs. We found the abundance of Bacilli, Lactobacillales and genus Veillonella were higher in BD patients than in HCs, while genus Dorea was more abundant in HCs. Additionally, correlation analysis showed that the bacterial genera' abundance in BD patients was strongly correlated with the severity of depression and inflammatory markers.

CONCLUSIONS

According to these results, the gut microbiota characteristics were changed in depressed BD patients, which may have been associated with the severity of depression and the inflammatory pathways.

Probiotics and vitamins modulate the cecal microbiota of laying hens submitted to induced molting

Induced molting enables laying hens to relax, restore energy and prolong the laying hen cycle, resolving problems such as poor egg quality and minimizing economic losses caused by rising global feeding costs. However, traditional molting methods may disrupt gut microflora and promote potential pathogens infections. This study used a customized additive with a mixture of probiotics and vitamins to induce molting and examine the cecal microbiota post molting. A total of two hundred 377 day-of-ISA Brown laying hens were randomly assigned to four groups: non-molt with basal diet (C), 12-day feeding restriction (FR) in earlier-molting (B), feed again to 27.12% egg production in middle-molting (A) and reach second peak of egg production over 81.36% in post-molting (D). Sequencing 16S rRNA to analyze cecal microbial composition revealed that there is no significant change in bacterial community abundance post-molting. In contrast to group C, the number of potentially harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Enterococcus was not found to increase in groups B, A, or D. This additive keeps cecal microbiota diversity and community richness steady. In cecal contents, hens in group B had lower Lactobacillus, Lachnospiraceae and Prevotellaceae (vsC, A, and D), no significant differences were found between post-molting and the non-molting. Furthermore, cecal microbiota and other chemicals (antibodies, hormones, and enzymes, etc.) strongly affect immunological function and health. Most biochemical indicators are significantly positively correlated with Prevotellaceae, Ruminococcaceae and Subdoligranulum, while negatively with Phascolarctobacterium and Desulfovibrio. In conclusion, the additive of probiotics and vitamins improved the cecal microbiota composition, no increase in the associated pathogenic microbial community due to traditional molting methods, and enhances hepatic lipid metabolism and adaptive immunological function, supporting their application and induced molting technology in the poultry breeding industry.

Interaction between the intestinal flora and the severity of diversion colitis after low anterior resection of rectal cancer

Background

Diversion colitis (DC) is nonspecific inflammation of the distal intestinal mucosa following disruption of colonic continuity with colonic dysfunction. The colonscopic score is a good tool for differentiating the severity of patients with DC. At present, no studies have analyzed the pathogenesis of DC from the perspective of the diversity and and differences of intestinal flora.

Methods

Retrospective study: Clinical information were collected from patients with low rectal cancer admitted to the Department of Anorectal Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, from April 2017 to April 2019. These patients underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection (LAR) combined with terminal ileum enterostomy (dual-chamber). We used chi-square test to comparethe clinical baseline information, clinical symptoms, and colonscopic characteristics between different severity of DC. Propsective oberservational study: We recruited 40 patients with laparoscopic anterior low resection combined with terminal ileum enterostomy and they were further classified into mild group and severe group according to the scores of colonscopic examinations for DC. 16s-rDNA sequencing was carried out to analyze the diversity and and differences of intestinal flora in the intestinal lavage fluid of the two groups.

Results

In retrospective study, we found that age, BMI, history of diabetes, and symptoms associated with the stoma state were the independent risk factors that affect DC severity (P<0.05). Meanwhile, age, BMI, history of diabetes and colonscopic score were found to be independent risk factors affecting the severity of diarrhea after ileostomy closure surgery(P<0.05), which was consistent with our results of differentiating the severity of DC under endoscopy; In propsective oberservational study, 40 patients with low rectal cancer recruited by sample size calculation, 23 were in the mild group and 17 in the severe group. The results of 16s-rDNA sequencing showed that intestinal flora with high enrichment values primarily consisted of Bifidobacteriales and Prevotella in mild group, whereas that in the severe group consisted of Providencia and Dorea. The functional predictions on such two types of intestinal flora were mainly focused on lipid synthesis, glycan synthesis, metabolism, and amino acid metabolism pathways.

Conclusion

After ileostomy closure surgery, a series of severe clinical symptoms might appear in DC patients. There are significant differences in local and systemic inflammatory responses, composition of intestinal flora between DC patients with different colonscopic scores, which provide a basis for the clinical interventional treatment for DC in patients with permanent stoma.

Treatment Effects of Natural Products on Inflammatory Bowel Disease In Vivo and Their Mechanisms: Based on Animal Experiments

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, non-specific inflammatory disease of the intestine that can be classified as ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Currently, the incidence of IBD is still increasing in developing countries. However, current treatments for IBD have limitations and do not fully meet the needs of patients. There is a growing demand for new, safe, and highly effective alternative drugs for IBD patients. Natural products (NPs) are used in drug development and disease treatment because of their broad biological activity, low toxicity, and low side effects. Numerous studies have shown that some NPs have strong therapeutic effects on IBD. In this paper, we first reviewed the pathogenesis of IBD as well as current therapeutic approaches and drugs. Further, we summarized the therapeutic effects of 170 different sources of NPs on IBD and generalized their modes of action and therapeutic effects. Finally, we analyzed the potential mechanisms of NPs for the treatment of IBD. The aim of our review is to provide a systematic and credible summary, thus supporting the research on NPs for the treatment of IBD and providing a theoretical basis for the development and application of NPs in drugs and functional foods.

Structural properties and anti-inflammatory activity of purified polysaccharides from Hen-of-the-woods mushrooms (Grifola frondosa)

Grifola frondosa is an edible medicinal mushroom that has been proven to have a variety of health benefits. The main active ingredients of this mushroom are polysaccharides. In this study, ultrasonic-assisted extraction was used to obtain crude Grifola frondosa polysaccharides (GFPs). Then, purified GFP was obtained after purification. The optimum extraction conditions were an extraction time of 71 min, an extraction temperature of 90°C in a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:37 g/mL, and an ultrasonic power of 500 W. GFP was purified using DEAE-52 and Sephadex G-100. The structural characterization of GFP was performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ion chromatography (IC), and ultraviolet (UV) visible photometry. The morphology of GFP was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), and Congo red testing. In addition, the administration of GFP in oxazolone (OXZ)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice was found to prevent weight loss. Different doses of GFP (80, 160, and 320 mg/kg body weight) were used, and sulfapyridine (SASP) was used as a positive control (370 mg/kg body weight) for the treatment of OXZ-induced UC. After treatment, the mice were killed, and blood and colon tissue samples were collected. GFP was found to prevent decreases in colon length and the levels of leukocytes, platelets, and neutrophils in UC mice. Moreover, GFP also decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1 β], increased IL-10, and reduced colon injury in UC mice. The results showed that Under these conditions, the predicted polysaccharide yield was 21.72%, and the actual extraction rate was 21.13%. The polysaccharide composition (molar ratio) was composed of fucose (0.025), glucosamine hydrochloride (0.004), galactose (0.063), glucose (0.869), and mannose (0.038). GFP was also found to have a typical absorption peak, and the GFP extracted using the ultrasound-assisted extraction protocol was mainly β-glucan. These results indicate that ultrasound-assisted extraction of GFP could reduce OXZ-induced intestinal inflammation as a promising candidate for the treatment of UC, with the potential for development as a food supplement to improve intestinal diseases.

Polysaccharide from fermented mycelium of Inonotus obliquus attenuates the ulcerative colitis and adjusts the gut microbiota in mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the colon. Polysaccharides not only have biological activities but also can regulate gut microbiota to alleviate the symptoms of UC. In this study, polysaccharide extracted from mycelium of Inonotus obliquus (IOP) was prescribed to treat UC induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in mice. Compared to model control group (MC), IOP-Low, IOP-Medium and IOP-High (IOP-L, IOP-M and IOP-H) treatment groups increased the body weight rate by 6.0%-9.6%, colon length by 8.57%-25.14% and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity by 53.8-110.4 U/mg, while decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content by 37.4%-64.8%, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity by 29.0%-46.9%, and the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) by 24.8-35.6 μmol/L. IOP treatment also promoted the secretion of interleukin (IL)-10 but suppressed those of interleukin (IL)-6, interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Simultaneously, analysis of high-throughput sequencing indicated that IOP reduced the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F/B) at phylum level, and increased the relative abundance of Bacteroides and Lactobacillus at genus level. In brief, IOP may be a promising alternative medicine for UC remedy by regulating the anti-inflammatory level, the anti-oxidative ability and the gut microbiota composition.

Lentinan improves intestinal inflammation and gut dysbiosis in antibiotics-induced mice

Gut microbiota dysbiosis is already a global problem after antibiotic overuse. This study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of lentinan and the mechanism of recovery of intestinal inflammation on broad-spectrum antibiotic-driven gut microbial dysbiosis in mice. Gut microbiota was elucidated by the Illumina MiSeq platform. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry was used to investigate short-chain fatty acid content. Colon histology, expression of tight-junction associated proteins and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were evaluated. The results showed that the gut microbiota of diversity and richness were reduced and various taxonomic levels of the gut microbiota were perturbed after antibiotics gavage. The abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes shifted to Proteobacteria and increased the relative abundance of harmful microbiota (Parabacteroides and Klebsiella) post-antibiotics, whereas lentinan administration reversed the dysbiosis and increased beneficial microbiota, including S24-7, Lactobacillus, Oscillospira, Ruminococcus and Allobaculum. The concentrations of propionic acid and butyric acid were significantly increased by treatment with lentinan. And lentinan improved colon tissue morphology and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines via altering NF-κB signaling pathway in antibiotic-driven gut microbial dysbiosis mice. Taken together, the results proved that lentinan can be used as a prebiotic and the result provided a theoretical basis for improving the clinical treatment of broad-spectrum antibiotics side effects.

A Potential Role of Plant/Macrofungi/Algae-Derived Non-Starch Polysaccharide in Colitis Curing: Review of Possible Mechanisms of Action

Multiple in vitro and in vivo model investigations have suggested a broad spectrum of potential mechanisms by which plant/macrofungi-derived non-starch polysaccharides may play a role in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This article reviews the in vivo and in vitro evidence of different plant-derived polysaccharides for IBD therapy. Their underlying mechanisms, particularly the molecular mechanisms associated with protective effects in the treatment and prevention of IDB, have been well summarized, including anti-inflammatory, epithelial barrier repair, and the regulation of intestinal flora. Emerging studies have observed the potent role of probiotics in IBD, particularly its ability to modulate gut microbiota, a well-known key factor for IBD. In summary, plant/macrofungi-derived polysaccharides have the potential to be a promising agent for the adjuvant treatment and prevention of IBD and will contribute to the design of well-designed clinical intervention trials that will ultimately improve the therapy of IBD.

Preventive effects of the Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch and Cornus officinalis Sieb herb couple on chronic kidney disease rats via modulating the intestinal microbiota and enhancing the intestinal barrier

CKD is a clinical syndrome with slow development and gradual deterioration of renal function. At present, modern medicine still lacks an ideal treatment method for this disease, while TCM has accumulated rich clinical experience in the treatment of CKD, which can effectively improve renal function and delay renal failure, and has unique advantages. RC is widely used in clinical practice to treat CKD, especially the “Kidney-Yin” deficiency syndrome. However, the compatibility mechanisms responsible for its effects in experimental studies, including preclinical and clinical research studies, are still not fully understood. Adenine-induced CKD rats were used to investigate the preventive effect of RC on CKD rats. Based on the high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing results from Illumina, we discussed the intestinal flora abundance in rats in different treatment groups. According to a PCA and a PCoA based on a distance matrix, there was a clear separation of gut microbiome profiles between normal rats and model rats in terms of beta diversity. The abundance of Firmicutes in CKD rats was relatively increased, while that of Bacteroidetes was decreased. It is clear that the plot for the RC group was closer to that of the normal group, suggesting that the RC group had higher similarities among bacterial members with N rats. Ussing chamber, Western blot, and PCR assays were used to investigate the effects of RC on intestinal barrier function and its molecular mechanism in model animals. The results indicated that the protein expressions of ZO-1, claudin-1, and occludin-1 were decreased significantly in chronic kidney disease rats with the induction of adenine. With the treatment of RG, CO, and RC, the intestinal barrier was repaired due to the upregulated expressions of the aforementioned proteins in CKD rats. Based on our findings, RC appears to strengthen the intestinal barrier and modulate gut microbiota in adenine-induced CKD rats. This project revealed the compatibility mechanism of RC in regulating the intestinal microecology and barrier function to intervene in CKD and provided the basis and ideas for the clinical application of RC and the development of innovative drugs for CKD.

The effect of combining basil seeds and gum Arabic on the healing process of experimental acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats

Background & aim

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum that oxidative stress and severe inflammation are the main features of this disease. Previous studies have shown that separate consumption of basil and gum arabic can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. The aim of the study was evaluating the effect of treatment with basil seeds given together with gum arabic on healing, inflammation and oxidative stress in the course of experimental colitis in rats.

Experimental procedure

A total number of 50 male rats were used, randomly assigned to five groups of 10 rats each. Colitis was induced in rats by enemas with 4% solution od acetic acid. Four days after induction of colitis, rats were treated for next 4 days with saline or combination of basil seeds plus gum arabic (1 mg/kg) or sulfasalazine (100 mg/g) rectally. The experiment was terminated after last dose of treatment. Rats without induction of colitis were used as a sham group.

Results

Acetic acid-induced colitis increased the macroscopic and histopathological damage scores of the colon as well as colon levels of MDA(Malondialdehyde), MPO(Myeloperoxidase), TNFα(Tissue necrosis factor α), IL6 (Interleukin 6)and IL17(Interleukin 17) and decreased SOD(Superoxide Dismutase), GPx (Glutathione Peroxidase) and IL10 (Interleukin 10) levels compared with the control group(P < 0.001). Treatment with basil and gum arabic reduced macroscopic and histopathological damage scores (P < 0.01) of the colon, MDA, MPO, TNFα, IL6(P < 0.001) and IL17 (P < 0.01) levels of the colon and increased SOD, GPx and IL10 levels compared to the colitis group (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Rectal administration of combination of basil seeds plus gum arabic after induction of colitis, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and accelerates the healing of the colon in experimental colitis evoked by acetic acid.

Shifts in the intestinal microflora of meat rabbits in response to glucocorticoids

BACKGROUND

As major stress hormones, glucocorticoids can directly or indirectly affect the intestinal microflora, although few studies have focused on changes in the composition of the intestinal microflora. In this study, rabbits were randomly divided into two groups: gavage administration with saline, and the same doses of dexamethasone (1 mg kg^-1 ). After 7 days, the microbial diversity of the jejunum contents was analysed.

RESULTS

The gut microflora richness and diversity had no significant difference between the two groups. The proportions of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the most abundant in the jejunum of meat rabbits. Dexamethasone injection led to a change in the structure of the gut microflora composition, and we found that there were six biomarkers with linear discriminant analysis score >4 (Firmicutes, Caproiciproducens, Clostridiales, Clostridia, Psychrobacter, and Psychrobacter faecalis), moreover, the results of this study provide new insight into alleviating the effects of stress on meat rabbits.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that glucocorticoids caused changes in the composition of intestinal microflora. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

The role of intestinal stem cell within gut homeostasis: Focusing on its interplay with gut microbiota and the regulating pathways

Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) play an important role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis via promoting a healthy gut barrier. Within the stem cell niche, gut microbiota linking the crosstalk of dietary influence and host response has been identified as a key regulator of ISCs. Emerging insights from recent research reveal that ISC and gut microbiota interplay regulates epithelial self-renewal. This article reviews the recent knowledge on the key role of ISC in their local environment (stem cell niche) associating with gut microbiota and their metabolites as well as the signaling pathways. The current progress of intestinal organoid culture is further summarized. Subsequently, the key challenges and future directions are discussed.

Polysaccharide-Based Edible Gels as Functional Ingredients: Characterization, Applicability, and Human Health Benefits

Nowadays, edible materials such as polysaccharides have gained attention due to their valuable attributes, especially gelling property. Polysaccharide-based edible gels (PEGs) can be classified as (i) hydrogels, (ii) oleogels and bigels, (iii) and aerogels, cryogels and xerogels, respectively. PEGs have different characteristics and benefits depending on the functional groups of polysaccharide chains (e.g., carboxylic, sulphonic, amino, methoxyl) and on the preparation method. However, PEGs are found in the incipient phase of research and most studies are related to their preparation, characterization, sustainable raw materials, and applicability. Furthermore, all these aspects are treated separately for each class of PEG, without offering an overview of those already obtained PEGs. The novelty of this manuscript is to offer an overview of the classification, definition, formulation, and characterization of PEGs. Furthermore, the applicability of PEGs in the food sector (e.g., food packaging, improving food profile agent, delivery systems) and in the medical/pharmaceutical sector is also critically discussed. Ultimately, the correlation between PEG consumption and polysaccharides properties for human health (e.g., intestinal microecology, "bridge effect" in obesity, gut microbiota) are critically discussed for the first time. Bigels may be valuable for use as ink for 3D food printing in personalized diets for human health treatment. PEGs have a significant role in developing smart materials as both ingredients and coatings and methods, and techniques for exploring PEGs are essential. PEGs as carriers of bioactive compounds have a demonstrated effect on obesity. All the physical, chemical, and biological interactions among PEGs and other organic and inorganic structures should be investigated.

On-line screening of natural antioxidants and the antioxidant activity prediction for the extracts from flowers of Chrysanthemum morifolium ramat

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. (Flos Chrysanthemi, FC) the most economically significant "food and drug dual-use" plants, with positive effects on relieving eye fatigue, and reduce internal heat, shows significant activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective, as well as alleviating diabetes effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was undertaken to a screening of natural antioxidants in five kinds of medicinal FC and development of an integrated quality control method based on the antioxidant activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A novel quality control method for FC was established by combining the on-line HPLC-DPPH, ESI-MS, and NIR spectra analysis. Firstly, the on-line HPLC-DPPH-MS system was employed to identify the antioxidants in FC extracts. Then, the relationship between the NIR spectra and antioxidant activities of FC samples was calibrated to evaluate the total antioxidant capacity of FC rapidly.

RESULTS

The established antioxidant activity-fingerprints contain both chemical information and antioxidant activity characteristics of FC. A total of 16 antioxidants were identified by on-line HPLC-ESI-MS analysis. The results of heat map analysis and cluster analysis showed that the classification method based on antioxidants in FC can be used to identify different cultivars of FC. The optimal pretreatment of the NIR spectra was determined to be row center (RC) 1st der + multiple-scatter correction (MSC) with an optimal LV value of 11. The developed spectral-antioxidant activity model had the excellent predictive ability and was successfully used to evaluate new batches of FC samples, where R_cal = 0.9445 and R_val = 0.8821.

CONCLUSIONS

This comprehensive strategy may prove to be a powerful technique for the rapid screening, identification, and activity prediction of antioxidants, which could be used for the quality control of FC, and can serve as reference for design of quality control of other herbs and foods samples.

Therapeutic approaches to colorectal cancer via strategies based on modulation of gut microbiota

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks third in terms of global incidence and second in terms of death toll among malignant tumors. Gut microbiota are involved in the formation, development, and responses to different treatments of CRC. Under normal physiological conditions, intestinal microorganisms protect the intestinal mucosa, resist pathogen invasion, and regulate the proliferation of intestinal mucosal cells via a barrier effect and inhibition of DNA damage. The composition of gut microbiota and the influences of diet, drugs, and gender on the composition of the intestinal flora are important factors in the early detection of CRC and prediction of the results of CRC treatment. Regulation of gut microbiota is one of the most promising new strategies for CRC treatment, and it is essential to clarify the effect of gut microbiota on CRC and its possible mechanisms to facilitate the prevention and treatment of CRC. This review discusses the role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of CRC, the potential of gut microbiota as biomarkers for CRC, and therapeutic approaches to CRC based on the regulation of gut microbiota. It might provide new ideas for the use of gut microbiota in the prevention and treatment of CRC in the near future and thus reduce the incidence of CRC.

Animal Models and Pathogenesis of Ulcerative Colitis

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a kind of inflammatory bowel disease which is needed to be predicted.

Objective

To analyze various animal models of UC conditions and summarizes the animal selection, model progression, and pathogenic mechanisms of UC animal models.

Methods

We surveyed the research papers published in PubMed, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, CNKI, SciFinder, and Web of Science in the past 5 years and discussed the experimental animals, modeling methods, and pathogenic mechanisms.

Results

In the selection of experimental animals, rats are considered the best experimental animals. The mainstream modeling methods can be categorized into the chemical stimulation method, immune stimulation method, and compound method, among which the compound method is the most successful. In the study of the pathogenesis of UC, the pathogenesis of UC is due to various pathogenic factors, such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins (PG), proinflammatory factors (IL, TNF-α), and intestinal flora.

Conclusion

The method of building an animal model of UC is well-established, providing a more targeted selection of animal models for future related experiments.

Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott. attenuates dextran sulfate sodium-induced Inflammatory Bowel Disease via regulation of inflammation-related signaling pathways and modulation of the gut microbiota

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott. Is one of the most functional berries usually used in the preparation of juice and jams, but it has revealed its ethnopharmacological properties due to their richness in biologically active molecules with pharmaceutical and physiological effects.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Aronia melanocarpa ethanol-extract as well as the possible mechanisms of action involved and the modulation of gut microbiota in Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-induced Inflammatory bowel disease in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were induced by DSS in drinking water for 7 days to evaluate the properties of A. melanocarpa ethanol-extract (AME) on the intestinal microflora. AME was administered orally to DSS-induced IBD mice for 21 days. Clinical, inflammatory, histopathological parameters, and different mRNA and proteins involved in its possible mechanism of action were determined as well as gut microbiota analysis via 16S high throughput sequencing.

RESULTS

AME improved clinical symptoms and regulated histopathological parameters, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress factors as well as mRNA and protein expressions of transcription factors involved in maintaining the intestinal barrier integrity. In addition, AME also reversed the DSS-induced intestinal dysbiosis effects promoting the production of cecal short chain fatty acids linked to signaling pathways inhibiting IBD.

CONCLUSION

AME improved intestinal lesions induced by DSS suggesting that A. melanocarpa berries could have significant therapeutic potential against IBD due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities as well as their ability to restore the gut microbiota balance.

Intervention and potential mechanism of non-starch polysaccharides from natural resources on ulcerative colitis: A review

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease of unknown etiology that affects the colon and rectum. It has evolved into a global burden due to the high incidence in developed countries and the highly-increased incidence in developing countries. Non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) from natural resources, as a type of functional carbohydrates, have a significant therapeutic effect on UC because of their good anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Based on the etiology and pathogenesis of UC, this review summarizes the intervention effects and mechanisms of NSPs in the prevention and treatment of UC. The results showed that NSPs can improve UC by protecting the intestinal mucosal barrier, regulating the immune response of the intestinal mucosa, and remodeling the intestinal flora and metabolites. These contents provide theoretical basis for the application of polysaccharides in the prevention and treatment of UC.

Alkaloids from Aconitum carmichaelii Alleviates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice via MAPK/NF-κB/STAT3 Signaling Inhibition

Fuzi (Aconitum carmichaelii Debx) has been traditionally used for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) in China for thousands of years. The total alkaloids of A. carmichaelii (AAC) have been considered as the main medicinal components of fuzi, whereas its underlying anti-UC mechanisms remain elusive. In the present study, the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice model, which was consistent with the symptoms and pathological features of human UC, was established to comprehensively evaluate the anti-UC effects of AAC. The results indicated that AAC effectively improved the weight loss, disease activity index (DAI), spleen hyperplasia, and colon shortening, and thus alleviated the symptoms of UC mice. Meanwhile, AAC not only inhibited the MPO enzyme and the abnormal secretion of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, and IL-17A) and suppressed the overexpression of inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) of mRNA but also reduced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, ERK, and JNK, and the protein expressions of NF-κB, IκB-α, STAT3, and JAK2 in the colon tissue. Furthermore, the LC-MS/MS quantitative determination suggested that the three low toxic monoester alkaloids were higher in both contents and proportion than that of the three high toxic diester alkaloids. Additionally, molecular docking was hired to investigate the interactions between alkaloid-receptor complexes, and it suggested the three monoester alkaloids exhibited higher binding affinities with the key target proteins of MAPK, NF-κB, and STAT3. Our finding showcased the noteworthy anti-UC effects of AAC based on the MAPK/NF-κB/STAT3 signaling pathway, which would provide practical and edge-cutting background information for the development and utilization of A. carmichaelii as a potential natural anti-UC remedy.

Sturgeon Chondroitin Sulfate Restores the Balance of Gut Microbiota in Colorectal Cancer Bearing Mice

Chondroitin sulfate (CS) is a well-known bioactive substance with multiple biological functions, which can be extracted from animal cartilage or bone. Sturgeon, the largest soft bone animal with ~20% cartilage content, is a great candidate for CS production. Our recent study confirmed the role of sturgeon chondroitin sulfate (SCS) in reducing colorectal cancer cell proliferation and tumor formation. Here, we further studied the effect of SCS on modulating gut microbiome structure in colorectal cancer bearing mice. In this study, the transplanted tumor mice model was constructed to demonstrate that SCS can effectively halt the growth of transplanted colorectal tumor cells. Next, we showed that SCS significantly altered the gut microbiome, such as the abundance of Lactobacillales, Gastranaerophilales, Ruminiclostridiun_5 and Ruminiclostridiun_6. According to linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and abundance map analysis of the microbial metabolic pathways, the changes in microbial abundance led to an increase of certain metabolites (e.g., Phe, Tyr, and Gly). Fecal metabolome results demonstrated that SCS can significantly reduce the amount of certain amino acids such as Phe, Pro, Ala, Tyr and Leu presented in the feces, suggesting that SCS might inhibit colorectal cancer growth by modulating the gut microbiome and altering the production of certain amino acids. Our results revealed the therapeutic potential of SCS to facilitate treatment of colorectal cancer. This study provides insights into the development of novel food-derived therapies for colorectal cancer.

Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effectsof Chrysanthemum Stem and Leaf Extract on Zebrafish Inflammatory Bowel Disease Model

Present studies have shown that Flos Chrysanthemi has anti-inflammatory and other effects and regulates intestinal function, while the chrysanthemum stem and leaf as non-medicinal parts of chrysanthemum have similar chemical components with chrysanthemum, but the activity and mechanisms are rarely elucidated. Therefore, this study used a DSS-induced zebrafish inflammatory bowel disease model to study the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of chrysanthemum stem and leaf extracts. The results indicate that DSS induction leads to increased secretion of acidic mucin in the intestines of juvenile fish, enlargement of the intestinal lumen and the emergence of intestinal inflammation. Compared with the model group, each administration group differentially inhibited the expression of IL-1β, IL-8 and MMP9 in DSS-induced zebrafish, while upregulating the activity of superoxide dismutase. The quantitative analysis results showed that the flavonoids (including Linarin, Diosmetin-7-glucoside, Tilianin, etc.) and phenolic acids (including Isochlorogenic acid C, Isochlorogenic acid A, 1,3-Dicaffeoylquinic acid, etc.) in the alcohol extract were closely related with both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, while the polysaccharides were also shown a certain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. In conclusion, this study suggests that the flavonoids, phenolic acids and polysaccharides from chrysanthemum stem and leaf extracts can improve inflammatory bowel disease of zebrafish by regulating the expressions of IL-1β, IL-8 and MMP9.

Effect of Shenling Baizhu San on Intestinal Flora in a Rat Model of Ulcerative Colitis with Spleen Deficiency and Dampness

OBJECTIVE

Shenling Baizhu San (SLBZS) is reported as an effective drug for ulcerative colitis (UC); however, its effect on intestinal flora remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of SLBZS on intestinal flora in a rat model of UC with spleen deficiency and dampness.

METHODS

UC was induced in rats using 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid on the basis of a model of spleen deficiency and dampness. The 16S rDNA sequencing was used to detect structural changes in the intestinal flora; the phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved state (PICRUSt) analysis was used to predict the altered pathways.

RESULTS

Compared with the model group, rats in the SLBZS group exhibited decreased levels of TNF-α(P < 0.05), and increased abundance and diversity of the intestinal flora. The abundance of Actinobacteria (P < 0.001) and Bacteroides (P < 0.01) increased and that of Firmicutes decreased (P < 0.001), and the abundance of Bifidobacterium(P < 0.05) and Allobaculum increased. PICRUSt analysis showed that the altered pathways between the groups were those of fatty acid and antibiotic biosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, and the pentose phosphate pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

SLBZS can regulate the structure and function of the intestinal flora, alter expression levels of certain metabolic pathways, and has the potential to treat UC.

Gut microbiome alterations in colitis rats after moxibustion at bilateral Tianshu acupoints

Background

The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) is closely related to the gut microbiota. Moxibustion has been used to improve the inflammation and gastrointestinal dysfunctions in gastrointestinal disorders such as UC. In this study, we investigated whether moxibustion could improve the gut microbial dysbiosis induced by dextran sulphate sodium.

Methods

Twenty-five male rats were randomly assigned into five groups. The UC rat model was established by administering DSS solution. The rats in the moxibustion and normal rats with moxibustion groups were treated with moxibustion at Tianshu (bilateral, ST25) points, and the mesalazine group rats were treated with mesalazine once daily for 7 consecutive days. Disease activity index (DAI) and haematoxylin and eosin staining were used to evaluate the effect of moxibustion. Gut microbiota profiling was conducted by metagenomic high throughput sequencing technology. The gut microbiota composition, diversity and function were analyzed and compared using metagenomics methodologies.

Results

The DAI scores and histopathology scores in the moxibustion and mesalazine groups were significantly decreased compared with the UC group (P < 0.01). Moxibustion treatment increased abundance levels of Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Ascomycota, Synergistetes and decreased abundance of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria. At the genus level, the abundance of Bacteroides, Bacteroides_bacterium_M7, Prevotella, Bacteroidales_bacterium_H2, were increased and Bacteroides_bacterium_H3, Parabacteroides, Porphyromonas, Alistipes, Parasutterella were decreased in the UC group in comparsion with those in the NG group. Moxibustion increased the abundance of Bacteroides and Bacteroides_bacterium_H3 and decreased Bacteroides_bacterium_M7, Prevotella, Bacteroidales_bacterium_H2. In UC group, the specie Bacteroides_massiliensis was negatively (P < 0.05) correlated with IL-23, Bacteroides_eggerthii_CAG109 and Bacteroides_eggerthii were negatively (P < 0.05) correlated with TGF-β. And the species Prevotella_sp_CAG1031 and Bacteroides_bacterium_H2 were significant positively (P < 0.05) correlated with IL-23. In addition, compare with the normal group, genes involved in certain metabolic pathways, such as energy production and conversion, amino acid transport and metabolism, carbohydrate transport and metabolism, were under-represented in the UC group, and these changes in the metabolic pathways could be reversed by moxibustion treatment and mesalazine treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that moxibustion treatment may protect the host from mucosal inflammation by modulating the intestinal microbiota community.

The functional role of sulforaphane in intestinal inflammation: a review

Intestinal inflammation represented by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has become a global epidemic disease and the number of patients with IBD continues to increase. This digestive tract disease not only affects the absorption of food components by destroying the intestinal epithelial structure, but also can induce diseases in remote organs via the gut-organ axis, seriously harming human health. Nowadays, increasing attention is being paid to the nutritional and medicinal value of food components with increasing awareness among the general public regarding health. As an important member of the isothiocyanates, sulforaphane (SFN) is abundant in cruciferous plants and is famous for its excellent anti-cancer effects. With the development of clinical research, more physiological activities of SFN, such as antidepressant, hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory activities, have been discovered, supporting the fact that SFN and SFN-rich sources have great potential to be dietary supplements that are beneficial to health. This review summarizes the characteristics of intestinal inflammation, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of SFN and its various protective effects on intestinal inflammation, and the possible future applications of SFN for promoting intestinal health have also been discussed.

A recent update on the use of Chinese medicine in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic idiopathic disease that is characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Proper management of IBD requires both early diagnosis and novel therapies and management programs. Many reports have suggested that Chinese medicine has unique properties favorable to the treatment of IBD. However, there are no systematic analyses on this topic.

PURPOSE

This review summarizes recent studies that assessed the effects and mechanisms of Chinese medicine in the treatment of IBD in order to fully understand the advantages of Chinese medicine in the management of IBD.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using peer-reviewed and clinical databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Springer LINK, Wan-fang database, the Chinese Biomedicine Database, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Keywords used were inflammatory bowel disease (including Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease) and Chinese medicine. All selected articles were from 1997 to 2021, and each were assessed critically for our exclusion criteria. Studies describing the pathogenesis of IBD, the effects and mechanisms of Chinese medicine in the treatment of IBD, in particular their roles in immune regulation, intestinal flora regulation, and improvement of intestinal barrier function, were included.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights recent progress in the use of Chinese medicine in the treatment of IBD. It also provides a reference for further evaluation and exploration of the potential of classical multi-herbal Chinese medicine in the treatment of IBD.

Shaping the gut microbiota by bioactive phytochemicals: An emerging approach for the prevention and treatment of human diseases

The human digestive tract is the cottage to trillions of live microorganisms, which regulate health and illness. A healthy Gut Microbiota (GM) is necessary for preventing microbial growth, body growth, obesity, cancer, diabetes, and enhancing immunity. The equilibrium in GM's composition and the presence/absence of critical species enable specific responses to be essential for the host's better health condition. Research evidences revealed that the dietary plants and their bioactive phytochemicals (BPs) play an extensive and critical role in shaping the GM to get beneficial health effects. BPs are also known to improve gastrointestinal health and reduce the risk of several diseases by modulating GM-mediated cellular and molecular processes. Regular intake of BPs-rich vegetables, fruits, and herbal preparations promotes probiotic bacteria, including Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species, while inhibiting unwanted gut residents' development Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium etc. Upon consumption, BPs contact the GM that gets transformed before being absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Biotransformation of BPs by GM is linked with the enhancement of bioactivity/toxicity diminishment of the BPs compared to parental phytochemicals. Therefore, the current review focuses on the role of BPs in shaping GM for the prevention and treatment of human diseases.

Comparative biotransformation of luteolin and apigenin from the flower extract and the stem-and-leaf extract of Dendranthema morifolium Ramat. Tzvel. in rats

BACKGROUND

The flower of Dendranthema morifolium Ramat Tzvel has been widely used as a nutritional health supplement worldwide. However, most of the studies have focused on the flower and the rest of the plant was neglected. Our hypothesis is that similar flavonoids may be present at different parts of D. morifolium, and the flavonoids may undergo a similar biotransformation pathway within the body. To investigate this hypothesis, an in vivo pharmacokinetic experimental model was developed to explore the comparative biotransformation of luteolin and apigenin after administration of D. morifolium extracts (10 g kg^-1 , p.o.) in freely moving rats. Because luteolin and apigenin mainly underwent phase II metabolism, the metabolic enzymes of β-glucuronidase/sulfatase or β-glucuronidase were used to hydrolyze the plasma sample, depending on the biotransformation pathway involved.

RESULTS

The results revealed that luteolin and apigenin mainly went through glucuronide and sulfate conjugations, respectively, in both the extract of flowers and the stem-and-leaf group. In addition, the area under the concentration curve (AUC_last ) of luteolin glucuronides and sulfates in the group administered the stem-and-leaf extract was approximately 4.6 times higher than that of the flower extract group. The dominant products of biotransformation for apigenin were sulfates.

CONCLUSION

These findings support our hypothesis that not only the flower parts of D. morifolium, but also the stem-and-leaf parts contain rich flavones, including glycosides and aglycone, and they undergo similar biotransformation pathways. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

A Metagenome-Wide Association Study of the Gut Microbiome and Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a wide-ranging disorder, which includes insulin resistance, altered glucose and lipid metabolism, and increased blood pressure and visceral obesity. MetS symptoms combine to result in a significant increase in cardiovascular risk. It is therefore critical to treat MetS in the early stages of the disorder. In this study, 123 MetS patients and 304 controls were recruited to determine whether the gut microbiome plays a role in MetS development and progression. By using whole-genome shotgun sequencing, we found that the gut microbiomes of MetS patients were different from those of controls, with MetS patients possessing significantly lower gut microbiome diversity. In addition, 28 bacterial species were negatively correlated with waist circumstance, with Alistipes onderdonkii showing the strongest correlation, followed by Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, Clostridium asparagiforme, Clostridium citroniae, Clostridium scindens, and Roseburia intestinalis. These species were also enriched in controls relative to MetS patients. In addition, pathways involved in the biosynthesis of carbohydrates, fatty acids, and lipids were enriched in the MetS group, indicating that microbial functions related to fermentation may play a role in MetS. We also found that microbiome changes in MetS patients may aggravate inflammation and contribute to MetS diseases by inhibiting the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Taken together, these results indicate the potential utility of beneficial gut microbiota as a potential therapeutic to alleviate MetS.

Effects of Dietary Ferulic Acid on the Intestinal Microbiota and the Associated Changes on the Growth Performance, Serum Cytokine Profile, and Intestinal Morphology in Ducks

The present study investigated the effects of ferulic acid (FA) on the growth performance, serum cytokine profile, intestinal morphology, and intestinal microbiota in ducks at the growing stage. 300 female Linwu ducks at 28 days of age with similar body weights were randomly divided into five groups. Each group contained six replicates of 10 birds. The dietary treatments were corn-soybean-based diet supplemented with FA at the concentrations of 0 (control), 100, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg diet. The results demonstrated that dietary FA at the levels of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg increased the average daily gain (P = 0.01), 400 and 800 mg/kg FA increased the final body weight (P = 0.02), 100, 200, and 800 mg/kg FA increased the serum glutathione (P = 0.01), and 100, 400, and 800 mg/kg FA increased the glutathione peroxidase activities in birds (P < 0.01). Additionally, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg dietary FA lowered the serum levels of interleukin-2 (P = 0.02) and interleukin-6 (P = 0.04). Moreover, the morphometric study of the intestines indicated that 400 mg/kg FA decreased the crypt depth in jejunum (P = 0.01) and caecum (P = 0.04), and increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth in jejunum (P = 0.02). Significant linear and/or quadratic relationships were found between FA concentration and the measured parameters. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that dietary FA increased the populations of genera Faecalibacterium, Paludicola, RF39, and Faecalicoccus in the cecum (P < 0.05), whereas decreased the populations of Anaerofilum and UCG-002 (P < 0.05). The Spearman correlation analysis indicated that phylum Proteobacteria were negatively, but order Oscillospirales, and family Ruminococcaceae were positively related to the parameters of the growth performance. Phylum Bacteroidetes, class Negativicutes and family Rikenellaceae were negatively associated with the parameters of the antioxidative capability. And phylum Cyanobacteria, Elusimicrobia, and Bacteroidetes, class Bacilli, family Rikenellaceae, and genus Prevotella were positively associated with the parameters of the immunological capability. Thus, it was concluded that the supplementations of 400 mg/kg FA in diet was able to improve the growth performance, antioxidative and immunological capabilities, intestinal morphology, and modulated the gut microbial construction of Linwu ducks at the growing stage.

Natural-Derived Polysaccharides From Plants, Mushrooms, and Seaweeds for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease impairing the gastrointestinal tract, and its incidence and prevalence have been increasing over time worldwide. IBD greatly reduces peoples' quality of life and results in several life-threatening complications, including polyp, toxic colonic dilatation, intestinal perforation, gastrointestinal bleeding, and cancerization. The current therapies for IBD mainly include drugs for noncritical patients and operation for critical patients. However, continuous use of these drugs causes serious side effects and increased drug resistance, and the demand of effective and affordable drugs with minimal side effects for IBD sufferers is urgent. Natural-derived polysaccharides are becoming a research hotspot for their therapeutic effects on IBD. This study focuses on the research progress of various natural polysaccharides from plants, seaweeds, and mushrooms for the treatment of IBD during recent 20 years. Regulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory status, gut microbiota, and immune system and protection of the intestinal epithelial barrier function are the underlying mechanisms for the natural-derived polysaccharides to treat IBD. The excellent efficacy and safety of polysaccharides make them promising candidates for IBD therapy.

Structural differences of polysaccharides from Astragalus before and after honey processing and their effects on colitis mice

Honey-processed Astragalus is a dosage form of Radix Astragali processed with honey, which exhibits better efficacy of tonifying Qi than the raw product. Polysaccharides are its main water-soluble active components. This work was designed to study the structural differences of homogeneous honey-processed Astragalus polysaccharides (HAPS3a) and Astragalus polysaccharides (APS3a) and their effects on colitis mice. The results showed that HAPS3a (Mw = 2463.5 kDa) and APS3a (Mw = 3373.2 kDa) differed in molecular weight, monosaccharide compositions, glycosidic bonds and degree of branching (DB). Notably, the molar ratios of galactose and galacturonic acid in HAPS3a were 22.66% and 33.24%, while those in APS3a were 11.87% and 49.55%, respectively. The uronic acid residues 1,4-β-GalpA and 1,6-α-GlcpA of the backbone in APS3a were converted into the corresponding neutral residues in HAPS3a after honey processing. The different DB of HAPS3a (15.35%) and APS3a (25.13%) suggested that the chain conformation became smoother. The anti-inflammatory effects on colitis mice revealed that HAPS3a exhibited better effects than APS3a by protecting intestinal mucosa, regulating the expression of cytokines and influencing microbiota diversity. Taken together, the differences in anti-inflammatory activity might be related to structural differences caused by honey processing. Our findings have laid a foundation for the processing mechanism of Astragalus.

Tremella fuciformis Polysaccharides Inhibited Colonic Inflammation in Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Treated Mice via Foxp3+ T Cells, Gut Microbiota, and Bacterial Metabolites

Tremella fuciformis is an edible medicinal mushroom, and its polysaccharide components are found to confer various health benefits. This study identified the protective effects of polysaccharides of Tremella fuciformis (TPs) against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. High dose of TPs (HTPs) could prevent the colon from shortening, reduce activity of colonic myeloperoxidase and serum diamine oxidase (DAO), decrease the concentration of D-lactate, and alleviate the colonic tissue damage in colitic mice. HTPs treatment stimulated Foxp3+T cells, and promoted the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines whereas it reduced the production of pro-inflammatory and the portion of immunoglobulin A (IgA)-coated bacteria, which was related to modulation of immune responses. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that TPs could significantly increase gut community diversity, and restore the relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Odoribacter, Helicobacter, Ruminococcaceae, and Marinifilaceae. According to metabolomic analysis, HTPs induced specific microbial metabolites akin to that in normal mice. Tyrosine biosynthesis, tryptophan metabolism, and bile acid metabolism were influenced in the HTPs group compared with those in the DSS group. HTPs could alleviate DSS-induced colitis by immunoregulation and restored the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites. The results indicated that HTPs have potential to be developed as a food supplement to ameliorate intestinal diseases.

Inhibitory effect of Jangkanghwan (Korean traditional food) on experimental ulcerative colitis in mice

Jangkanghwan (JKH) can delay weight loss in mice, promote weight gain during recovery, and reduce colonic shortening and colon weight. In addition, the murine disease activity index was controlled after treatment using JKH. It can reduce the content of pro-inflammatory factors in serum and expression in tissues, such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, cyclooxygenase-2, and nuclear factor kappa-B; in contrast, the content and expression of IL-10 and the inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase-α in the serum and tissues were increased. The mRNA expression of the colitis characteristic biomarker monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and macrophage inflammatory protein-3α were reduced in colon tissues. Using next-generation sequencing technology, the Bacteroidetes phylum in the JKH group decreased, while the Firmicutes phylum increased, and the number of beneficial bacteria-Bifidobacteriaceae, Lactobacillaceae, and Akkermansiaceae-increased. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: JKH is a mixture of colonic healthy foods composed of Atractylodes macrocephala koidzumi, radish leaves, Viscum album var. coloratum, dried Zingiber officinale Roscoe, etc. According to UPLC-Q-TOF MS analysis, JKH consists mainly of 17 active substances, such as pheophorbide A, nabumetone alcohol, dehydrocostus lactone, plantamajoside, kaempferol 3, 7-dirhamnoside, quercetin 3-D-glucuronide, and viscumneoside III. We investigated the preventive effects of JKH on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis in a murine model and found that JKH can reduce the damage in mice caused by DSS treatment.

Anti-inflammatory Dendranacetylene A, a new polyacetylene glucoside from the flower of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat

A new polyacetylene glucoside, Dendranacetylene A (1), and a known compound 8E-decaene-4,6-diyn-1-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1"→2")-β-d-glucopyranoside (2) were isolated from the flowers of Dendranthema morifolium (Ramat.) kitam. The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated by NMR and HR-ESI-MS analysis, and comparing these results with data reported in literatures. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory effects of compounds 1 and 2 were evaluated on RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The two compounds significantly inhibited the NO production in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells and exhibited anti-inflammatory effects.