Epidemiology, burden of disease, and unmet needs in the treatment of ulcerative colitis in Asia

Integrated single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing reveals CREM is involved in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by persistent colonic inflammation. Here, we performed a systematic analysis to gain better insights into UC pathogenesis.

Methods

We analyzed two UC-related datasets extracted from the gene expression omnibus database using several bioinformatics tools. The primary cell types and key subgroups of primary cells associated with UC and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between UC and control samples were identified. The molecular regulation of the key genes was also predicted. The gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analyses of marker genes of key cell subgroups and model genes were performed. The expression of key enriched genes was validated in 10 clinical samples using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results

Monocytes were identified as the major cell type. Ten differentially expressed marker genes were obtained by intersecting the 3121 DEGs, 38 marker genes in major cell types, and 104 marker genes in key cell subgroups. Four essential genes, associated with immune response, were obtained using support vector machine recursive feature elimination and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analyses. The four essential genes were highly expressed in Cluster 0 during differentiation. Validation of the four key genes in colonic mucosal biopsy specimens from 10 normal and 10 UC patients revealed that CREM was highly expressed in both the lesion-free sites and lesion sites colonic mucosa of UC patients compared with normal adults.

Conclusions

We identified CREM involved in UC pathogenesis, which is expected to provide a new therapeutic target for UC.

Efficacy and safety of moxibustion for ulcerative colitis: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a global chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and the poor efficacy of currently available pharmacological regimens makes the management of UC a great challenge. Moxibustion has shown great potential in the management of UC. However, its effectiveness and safety are still controversial. The purpose of this study is to synthesise the latest evidence regarding the clinical efficacy and safety of moxibustion for UC.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP and SinoMed databases will be searched from inception to July 2023, to identify all randomised controlled trials with moxibustion for UC. The primary outcome will be clinical efficacy, as measured by validated scales. The serum inflammatory factor, colonoscopy results, quality of life, recurrence rate and adverse events will be the secondary outcomes. The Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool will be used to assess the methodological quality of each included trial. All data extraction will be carried out independently by two investigators. RevMan V.5.4 software will be used for data analysis and Cochran's Q statistic and I2 test will be used to assess heterogeneity between studies. In addition, we will perform subgroup analyses, sensitivity analyses and publication bias if the available data are sufficient. The strength of evidence will be graded using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval is not required for this review. Our findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023425481.

Moxibustion alleviates intestinal inflammation in ulcerative colitis rats by modulating long non-coding RNA LOC108352929 and inhibiting Phf11 expression

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNAs) are involved in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine, can improve symptoms in patients with UC and reduce intestinal inflammation in rats with UC. However, it remains unclear whether the ameliorative effect of moxibustion on intestinal mucosal inflammation in UC is related to lncRNAs. Thirty-two rats were randomly assigned to four groups: normal control, UC, moxibustion (MOX), and sulfasalazine (SASP). The UC rat model was induced by administering 4% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water. Rats in the moxibustion group underwent bilateral Tianshu (ST25) moxibustion using the herbs-partition moxibustion method. Rats in the sulfasalazine group received SASP solution via gavage twice daily for seven consecutive days. Our results revealed that, compared with the UC group [2.00 (1.00, 2.50)], the DAI score [0.25 (0.00, 0.50)] was significantly lower in the MOX group (P < 0.05). Compared with the UC group [13.00 (11.25, 14.00)], the histopathological score [5.50 (4.00, 7.75)] was significantly lower in the MOX group (P < 0.05). In addition, the CMDI and macroscopic scores were decreased in the MOX group (P < 0.05). Moxibustion significantly decreased the protein expression of inflammatory factors TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1β in the colonic tissues of UC rats (P <0.05), thereby suppressing the inflammatory response. Moreover, moxibustion exerted a regulatory influence on colon lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles, upregulating LOC108352929 and downregulating Phf11 in rats with UC (P <0.05). Moxibustion also led to a reduction in the expression and colocalization of Phf11 and NF-κB in the colons of UC rats. Moreover, knockdown of LOC108352929 in rat enteric glial cells demonstrated a significant upregulation of TNF-α mRNA expression (P <0.05). In summary, these data illustrate that moxibustion effectively ameliorates DSS-induced colonic injury and inflammation while exerting regulatory control over the lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network in UC rats. Collectively, the in vivo and in vitro studies suggested that LOC108352929-Phf11 may serve as a potential biological marker for moxibustion in the treatment of UC.

Hypersampsonone H attenuates ulcerative colitis via inhibition of PDE4 and regulation of cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a recurrent intestinal inflammatory disease which poses a serious threat to the life of patients. However, there are no specific drugs for UC yet. Hypericum sampsonii Hance (HS) is a Chinese herbal medicine traditionally used to treat enteritis and dysentery. Our previous studies have demonstrated that HS holds potential anti-UC effects, and a novel compound named Hypersampsonone H (HS-1) isolated from HS possesses significant anti-inflammatory activity. However, the beneficial effects of HS-1 on UC remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of HS-1 on UC and its potential mechanisms, both in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

The in vitro model was employed using LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of HS-1 and its possible mechanisms. Furthermore, the therapeutic efficacy and potential mechanisms of HS-1 against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis were assessed through histopathological examination, biochemical analysis, and molecular docking.

RESULTS

In vitro, HS-1 significantly reduced LPS-induced inflammatory responses, as indicated by inhibiting NO production, down-regulating the overexpression of COX-2 and iNOS, as well as regulating the imbalanced levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10. Moreover, HS-1 also inhibited the expression of PDE4, elevated the intracellular cAMP level, and promoted the phosphorylation of CREB, thereby activating the PKA/CREB pathway in RAW264.7 cells. In vivo, HS-1 demonstrated therapeutic capacity against DSS-induced colitis by alleviating the symptoms of colitis mice, regulating the abnormal expression of inflammatory mediators, protecting the integrity of intestinal epithelial barrier, and reducing tissue fibrosis. Consistently, HS-1 was found to decrease the expression of PDE4 isoforms, subsequently activating the cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway. Furthermore, the molecular docking results indicated that HS-1 exhibited a high affinity for PDE4, particularly PDE4D. Further mechanistic validation in vitro demonstrated that HS-1 possessed a synergistic effect on forskolin and an antagonistic effect on H-89 dihydrochloride, thereby exerting anti-inflammatory effects through the cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

We disclose that HS-1 serves as a promising candidate drug for the treatment of UC by virtue of its ability to reduce DSS-induced colitis via the inhibition of PDE4 and the activation of cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway.

Based on Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis Reveals the Hub Immune Infiltration-Related Genes Associated with Ulcerative Colitis

Purpose

Immune infiltration plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of mucosal damage in ulcerative colitis (UC). The objective of this study was to systematically analyze and identify genetic characteristics associated with immune infiltration in UC.

Patients and Methods

Gene expression data from three independent datasets obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were utilized. By employing the ssGSEA and CIBERSORT algorithms, we estimated the extent of immune cell infiltration in UC samples. Subsequently, Weighted Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA) was performed to identify gene modules exhibiting significant associations with immune infiltration, and further identification of hub genes associated with immune infiltration was accomplished using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis. The relationship between the identified hub genes and clinical information was subsequently investigated.

Results

Our findings revealed significant activation of both innate and adaptive immune cells in UC. Notably, the expression levels of CD44, IL1B, LYN, and ITGA5 displayed strong correlations with immune cell infiltration within the mucosa of UC patients. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the significant upregulation of CD44, LYN, and ITGA5 in UC samples, and their expression levels were found to be significantly associated with common inflammatory markers, including the systemic immune inflammation indices, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Conclusion

CD44, LYN, and ITGA5 are involved in the immune infiltration pathogenesis of UC and may be potential therapeutic targets for UC.

Role of autophagy in pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory disease involving the colorectal mucosa. It is characterized by recurrent attacks, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, mucus, and purulent stool. At present, the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis is not fully understood. Most scholars generally believe that the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis is affected by genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, immune system disorders, microflora and intestinal microflora disorders, and other factors. In recent years, the concept of autophagy has gradually attracted the attention of the scientific community, and more and more scholars have begun to study the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis on the basis of autophagy theory. This review will give an overview of cellular autophagy and discuss its role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis.

Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics Analysis of Indigo Naturalis Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis in Mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC), often known as UC, is an inflammatory disease of the intestines that has frequent and long-lasting flare-ups. It is unknown precisely how the traditional Chinese drug Indigo Naturalis (IN) heals inflammatory bowel disease, despite its long-standing use in China and Japan. Finding new metabolite biomarkers linked to UC could improve our understanding of the disease, speed up the diagnostic process, and provide insight into how certain drugs work to treat the condition. Our work is designed to use a metabolomic method to analyze potential alterations in endogenous substances and their impact on metabolic pathways in a mouse model of UC. To determine which biomarkers and metabolisms are more frequently connected with IN's effects on UC, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis of the serum metabolomics of UC mice and normal mice was performed. The outcomes demonstrated that IN boosted the health of UC mice and reduced the severity of their metabolic dysfunction. In the UC model, it was also found that IN changed the way 17 biomarkers and 3 metabolisms functioned.

Muc2 mucin O-glycosylation interacts with enteropathogenic Escherichia coli to influence the development of ulcerative colitis based on the NF-kB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestine characterized by a compromised intestinal epithelial barrier. Mucin glycans are crucial in preserving barrier function during bacterial infections, although the underlying mechanisms remain largely unexplored.

METHODS

A cohort comprising 15 patients diagnosed with UC and 15 healthy individuals was recruited. Stool samples were collected to perform 16S rRNA gene sequencing, while biopsy samples were subjected to nanocapillary liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS) to assess O-glycosylation. Gene expression was evaluated through qPCR analysis and Western blotting. Furthermore, animal experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of Escherichia coli and/or O-glycan inhibitor benzyl-α-GalNAc on the development of colitis in mice.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that the mucus barrier was disrupted during the early stages of UC, while the MUC2 protein content remained unaltered. Additionally, a noteworthy reduction in the O-glycosylation of MUC2 was observed, along with significant changes in the intestinal microbiota during the early stages of UC. These changes included a decrease in intestinal species richness and an increase in the abundance of Escherichia coli (E. coli). Moreover, subsequent to the administration of galactose or O-glycan inhibitor to intestinal epithelial cells, it was observed that the cell culture supernatant had the ability to modify the proliferation and adhesive capacity of E. coli. Furthermore, when pathogenic E. coli or commensal E. coli were cocultured with intestinal epithelium, both strains elicited activation of the NF-KB signaling pathway in epithelial cells and facilitated the expression of serine protease in comparison to the untreated control. Consistently, the inhibition of O-glycans has been observed to enhance the pathogenicity of E. coli in vivo. Furthermore, a correlation has been established between the level of O-glycans and the development of ulcerative colitis. Specifically, a reduction in the O-glycan content of MUC2 cells has been found to increase the virulence of E. coli, thereby compromising the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, there exist complex interactions between the intestinal epithelium, O-glycans, and the intestinal microbiota, which may inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Coptis chinensis and Berberine Ameliorate Chronic Ulcerative Colitis: An Integrated Microbiome-Metabolomics Study

Coptis chinensis Franch (RC), has historically been used for the treatment of "Xiao Ke" and "Xia Li" symptoms in China. "Xia Li" is characterized by abdominal pain and diarrhea, which are similar to the clinical symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC). For the first time, this study aims to compare the anti-colitis effects of berberine (BBR) and total RC alkaloids (TRCA) and investigate the underlying metabolites and gut microbiota biomarkers. Metabolomics results showed that several colitis-related biomarkers, including lysophosphatidyl ethanolamine, lysophosphatidylcholine, scopolamine-methyl-bromide, N1-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide, 4-hydroxyretinoic acid, and malic acid, were significantly improved in model mice after BBR and TRCA treatments. High-dose BBR and TRCA treatments reversed the mouse colon shortening caused by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), alleviated bowel wall swelling, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration. BBR and TRCA restored the damaged mucosa integrity in colitis mice by upregulating claudin 1 and occludin, preventing colon epithelium apoptosis by inhibiting the cleavage of caspase 3. Additionally, BBR and TRCA significantly decreased the richness of the pathogenic bacteria Bacteroides acidifaciens but increased the abundance of the probiotic Lactobacillus spp. Notably, TRCA exhibited superior anti-colitis effects to those of BBR. Thus, this agent warrants further study and application in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease in the clinic.

Pulsatillae radix extract alleviates DSS-induced colitis via modulating gut microbiota and inflammatory signaling pathway in mice

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic relapsing intestinal disease with complex pathogenesis. The increasing morbidity and mortality of UC become a global public health threat. Baitouweng decoction (BD), a formulated prescription of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been applied to cure UC for many centuries. However, the therapeutic efficacy and working mechanisms of this medicine are not well studied.

Aim of study

In this study we determined whether Pulsatillae radix, one of four ingredients in BD, had a therapeutic effect on colitis. And explore the underlying mechanism of Pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel radix in the improvement of DSS-induced colitis in mice model.

Methods

The active compounds of Pulsatilla chinensis was identified by UPLC. The composition of the mice's cecum microbiota was determined by 16S rRNA sequencing. And gene expression profile of colon was detected by transcriptome.

Results

The results showed that Pulsatillae radix significantly improved the clinical symptom, prevented the shorten of colon length, and decreased the diseased activity index (DAI) in an 3 % DSS-induced ulcerative colitis mouse model. We found that Pulsatillae radix reversed the dysbiosis of gut microbiota as evidenced by increase in the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, Deferribacteres, and Proteobacteria phyla and decrease in Firmicutes, as well as by decrease in the genera levels of Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, Prevotella, Mucispirillum, Coprococcus, Oscillospira, and Escherichia. The results of transcriptome showed Pulsatillae radix administration led to 128 genes up-regulation, and 122 genes down-regulation, up-regulate NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, down-regulate Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and TNF and IL-17 signaling pathways.

Conclusion

in this study, we demonstrate Pulsatillae radix alleviates DSS-induced colitis probably via modulating gut microbiota and inflammatory signaling pathway in DSS-induced colitis mouse model.

Rosa Roxburghii Tratt Fruit Extract Prevents Dss-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice by Modulating the Gut Microbiota and the IL-17 Signaling Pathway

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a non-specific inflammatory bowel illness characterized by intestinal mucosal barrier degradation, inflammation, oxidative damage, and gut microbiota imbalances. Rosa roxburghii Tratt Fruit extract (RRTE) was extracted from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit, exhibiting an excellent prevention effect against UC; RRTE could prevent the damage of DSS-induced human normal colonic epithelial (NCM 460) cells, especially in cell viability and morphology, and oxidative damage. Additionally, in UC mice, RRTE could limit the intestinal mucosal barrier by increasing the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins and mucin, reducing inflammation and oxidative damage in colon tissue. More importantly, RRTE can increase the abundance of beneficial bacteria to regulate gut microbiota such as Ruminococcus, Turicibacter, and Parabacteroides, and reduce the abundance of harmful bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Shigella. Furthermore, transcriptomics of colonic mucosal findings point out that the beneficial effect of RRTE on UC could be attributed to the modulation of inflammatory responses such as the IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways. The qPCR results confirm that RRTE did involve the regulation of several genes in the IL-17 signaling pathway. In conclusion, RRTE could prevent DSS-induced damage both in vitro and in vivo.

Egg yolk phosphatidylcholine alleviates DSS-induced colitis in BALB/c mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common inflammatory bowel disease, whose incidence is on the rise worldwide. The drugs commonly used for UC are often associated with a number of side effects. Therefore, the development of effective, food-borne substances for UC is in line with the current needs. Egg yolk phosphatidylcholine (EYPC) is one of the abundant lipids in egg yolk and possesses various biological activities. However, its protective effect against UC has not been clarified. In this study, the anti-UC activity of EYPC was investigated using a dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis model of BALB/c mice. The results showed that EYPC supplementation inhibited DSS-induced colon shortening, the spleen index and disease activity index increase and intestinal structural damage. EYPC could down-regulate the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and MPO in the colon and restore the number of goblet cells and the level of tight junction (TJ) proteins. Besides, EYPC modulated the composition of the gut microbiota, lowered the relative abundance of the pathogenic bacterium Parabacteroides and upregulated the abundance of the beneficial bacteria Alistipes and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group. These results evidenced that EYPC could attenuate DSS-induced colitis in mice and had the potential to prevent and treat UC.

Pathological mechanism and targeted drugs of ulcerative colitis: A review

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and mucopurulent stools as the main symptoms. Its incidence is increasing worldwide, and traditional treatments have problems such as immunosuppression and metabolic disorders. In this article, the etiology and pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis are reviewed to clarify the targeted drugs of UC in the latest research. Our aim is to provide more ideas for the clinical treatment and new drug development of UC, mainly by analyzing and sorting out the relevant literature on PubMed, summarizing and finding that it is related to the main genetic, environmental, immune and other factors, and explaining its pathogenesis from the NF-κB pathway, PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and JAK/STAT signaling pathway, and obtaining anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibodies, integrin antagonists, IL-12/IL-23 antagonists, novel UC-targeted drugs such as JAK inhibitors and SIP receptor agonists. We believe that rational selection of targeted drugs and formulation of the best dosing strategy under the comprehensive consideration of clinical evaluation is the best way to treat UC.

A mannitol-modified emodin nano-drug restores the intestinal barrier function and alleviates inflammation in a mouse model of DSS-induced ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease of the colon that is characterized by mucosal ulcers. Given its increasing prevalence worldwide, it is imperative to develop safe and effective drugs for treating UC. Emodin, a natural anthraquinone derivative present in various medicinal herbs, has demonstrated therapeutic effects against UC. However, low bioavailability due to poor water solubility limits its clinical applications.

METHODS

Emodin-borate nanoparticles (EmB) were synthesized to improve drug solubility, and they modified with oligomeric mannitol into microgels (EmB-MO) for targeted delivery to intestinal macrophages that express mannose receptors. UC was induced in a mouse model using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), and different drug formulations were administered to the mice via drinking water. The levels of inflammation-related factors in the colon tissues and fecal matter were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Intestinal permeability was evaluated using fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran. HE staining, in vivo imaging, real-time PCR, and western blotting were performed to assess intestinal barrier dysfunction.

RESULTS

Both EmB and EmB-MO markedly alleviated the symptoms of UC, including body weight loss, stool inconsistency, and bloody stools and restored the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. However, the therapeutic effects of EmB-MO on the macroscopic and immunological indices were stronger than those of EmB and similar to those of 5-aminosalicylic acid. Furthermore, EmB-MO selectively accumulated in the inflamed colon epithelium and restored the levels of the gut barrier proteins such as ZO-1 and Occludin.

CONCLUSIONS

EmB-MO encapsulation significantly improved water solubility, which translated to greater therapeutic effects on the immune balance and gut barrier function in mice with DSS-induced UC. Our findings provide novel insights into developing emodin-derived drugs for the management of UC.

Surgical Treatment in Ulcerative Colitis, Still Topical: A Narrative Review

In this paper, different studies were integrated to conclude the impact of ulcerative colitis (UC) on the patient's vital prognosis, specifically highlighting the association with colorectal cancer (CRC). These severe complications have led us to consider studying the role of preventive surgery in managing UC. This study reviewed total preventive colectomy in UC patients for preventing the onset of CRC, the role of surgery in UC management, and its potential as a definitive treatment for the condition. The study also emphasized the effectiveness of annual colonoscopic monitoring and preventive colectomy in reducing the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC). It discussed the role of laparoscopic surgery in minimizing postoperative complications and highlighted that partial surgical resection of the colon can be a viable option, offering improved bowel function without increasing the risk of CRC-related mortality. Elective surgery has an important place in UC management by preventing the development of forms requiring emergency surgery. Although surgery can cure UC, it can lead to significant postoperative complications and adverse effects.

Natural flavones from edible and medicinal plants exhibit enormous potential to treat ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic aspecific gut inflammatory disorder that primarily involves the recta and colons. It mostly presents as a long course of repeated attacks. This disease, characterized by intermittent diarrhoea, fecal blood, stomachache, and tenesmus, severely decreases the living quality of sick persons. UC is difficult to heal, has a high recurrence rate, and is tightly related to the incidence of colon cancer. Although there are a number of drugs available for the suppression of colitis, the conventional therapy possesses certain limitations and severe adverse reactions. Thus, it is extremely required for safe and effective medicines for colitis, and naturally derived flavones exhibited huge prospects. This study focused on the advancement of naturally derived flavones from edible and pharmaceutical plants for treating colitis. The underlying mechanisms of natural-derived flavones in treating UC were closely linked to the regulation of enteric barrier function, immune-inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, gut microflora, and SCFAs production. The prominent effects and safety of natural-derived flavones make them promising candidate drugs for colitis treatment.

Achillea wilhelmsii-Incorporated Chitosan@Eudragit Nanoparticles Intended for Enhanced Ulcerative Colitis Treatment

Achillea wilhelmsii (A. wilhelmsii) contains several therapeutic phytochemicals, proposing a protective effect on inflammatory responses in autoimmune diseases such as ulcerative colitis (UC). However, its activities against UC encounter multiple obstacles. The current study aimed to formulate a colon-specific delivery of A. wilhelmsii for treating UC using chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) and Eudragit S100 as a mucoadhesive and pH-sensitive polymer, respectively. Core chitosan NP was loaded with A. wilhelmsii extract, followed by coating with Eudragit S100. Then, physicochemical characterizations of prepared NPs were conducted, and the anti-UC activity in the rat model was evaluated. The relevant physicochemical characterizations indicated the spherical NPs with an average particle size of 305 ± 34 nm and high encapsulation efficiency (88.6 ± ‏7.3%). The FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) analysis revealed the Eudragit coating and the extract loading, as well as the high radical scavenging ability of A. wilhelmsii was confirmed. The loaded NPs prevented the extract release in an acidic pH-mimicking medium and presented a complete release thereafter at a colonic pH. The loaded NPs markedly mitigated the induced UC lesions in rats, reflected by reducing inflammation, ulcer severity, and UC-related symptoms. Further, histopathological analysis exhibited reducing the extent of the inflammation and damage to colon tissue, and the determination of the involved pro-inflammatory cytokines in serum showed a significant reduction relative to free extract. The present results show that chitosan NPs containing A. wilhelmsii extract coated with Eudragit having proper physicochemical properties and substantial anti-inflammatory activity can significantly improve colonic lesions caused by UC.

Both Saccharomyces boulardii and Its Postbiotics Alleviate Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice, Association with Modulating Inflammation and Intestinal Microbiota

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of Saccharomyces boulardii and its freeze-dried and spray-dried postbiotics on the intervention and potential mechanism of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis in mice. [Methods] After the acclimation period of C67BL/6J mice, a colitis model was constructed by applying 2% DSS for 7 d, followed by 7 d of intervention. Subsequently, the disease activity index (DAI), organ index, colon length, colon HE staining of pathological sections, ELISA for blood inflammatory factors (Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α), Real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) to determine the levels of colonic inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α), Occludin gene expression, and intestinal flora were assessed to evaluate the protective effects of S. boulardii and its postbiotics on colitis in mice.

RESULTS

Compared with the DSS group, S. boulardii and the postbiotics interventions effectively improved colonic shortening and tissue damage, increased the expression of intestinal tight junction protein, reduced the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors, increased the secretion of anti-inflammatory factors, and maintained the homeostasis of intestinal microorganisms. Postbiotics intervention is better than probiotics.

CONCLUSIONS

S. boulardii and its postbiotics can effectively alleviate DSS-induced colitis in mice through modulating host immunity and maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Postbiotics are promising next-generation biotherapeutics for ulcerative colitis treatment.

Sodium houttuyfonate derived from Houttuynia cordata Thunb improves intestinal malfunction via maintaining gut microflora stability in Candida albicans overgrowth aggravated ulcerative colitis

Candida albicans is a common opportunistic pathogen and normally resides in the human gut. Increasing number of reports link the overgrowth of C. albicans to the severity of ulcerative colitis (UC). Sodium houttuyfonate (SH), a derivative of the medicinal herb Houttuynia cordata Thunb, has been demonstrated to exhibit decent antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities. We showed previously that SH could ameliorate colitis mice infected with C. albicans. However, it is unclear whether the therapeutic effect of SH is connected to its modulation of intestinal microflora in UC. In this study, the impact of SH on the gut microbiota was explored in both cohabitation and non-cohabitation patterns. The results showed that in UC mice inflicted by C. albicans, the administration of SH could greatly improve the pathological signs, weaken the oxidative stress and inflammatory response, and enhance the intestinal mucosal integrity. By 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we found that C. albicans interference caused intestinal microbiota dysbiosis accompanied by an increase of some harmful pathogens including Klebsiella and Bacteroides. In contrast, SH could modulate the abundance and diversity of microbiota with an increase of several beneficial bacteria comprising short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria (Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Intestinimonas) and probiotics (Lactobacillus and Alloprevotella). Furthermore, the cohabitation strategy could also prove the efficacy of SH, indicating a role of transmissible gut flora in the colitis model. These findings suggest that SH might be an effective compound for the treatment of UC complicated by C. albicans overgrowth through maintaining gut microbiota homeostasis, thereby improving intestinal function.

Protective Effects of Protopanaxatriol Saponins on Ulcerative Colitis in Mouse Based on UPLC-Q/TOF-MS Serum and Colon Metabolomics

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, nonspecific inflammation of the bowel that mainly affects the mucosa and submucosa of the rectum and colon. Ginsenosides are the main active ingredients in ginseng and show many therapeutic effects in anti-inflammatory diseases, cancer, and nervous system regulation. Protopanaxatriol saponin (PTS) is an important part of saponins, and there is no research on its pharmacological effects on colitis. In this study, a model of ulcerative colitis in mice was induced by having mice freely drink 3.5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) solution, and UPLC-Q-TOF-MS-based metabolomics methods were applied to explore the therapeutic effect and protective mechanism of PTS for treating UC. The results showed that PTS could significantly prevent colon shortening and pathological damage and alleviate abnormal changes in UC mouse physiological and biochemical parameters. Moreover, PTS intervention regulated proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1 in serum, and MPO and NO in colon. Interestingly, PTS could significantly inhibit UC mouse metabolic dysfunction by reversing abnormal changes in 29 metabolites and regulating eleven metabolic pathways. PTS has potential application in the treatment of UC and could alleviate UC in mice by affecting riboflavin metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, retinol metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis and by regulating pentose and glucuronate conversion, linoleic acid metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, ether lipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, and tyrosine metabolism, which points at a direction for further research and for the development of PTS as a novel natural agent.

Homoharringtonine Attenuates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis by Inhibiting NF-κB Signaling

Homoharringtonine (HHT) exhibits an anti-inflammatory activity. The potential protective effects and mechanisms of HHT on dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced colitis were investigated. DSS-induced colitis mice were intraperitoneally injected with HHT. Body weight, colon length, disease activity index (DAI), and histopathological change were examined. The relative contents of interleukin- (IL-) 1β, tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, IL-6, and the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) in the colon tissues and HHT-treated RAW264.7 cells were detected with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In the meantime, the levels of p-p65 and p-IκBα were detected by Western blot. The proportion of macrophages (CD11b+F4/80+) in the colon tissues was detected by flow cytometry. HHT alleviated DSS-induced colitis with downregulated TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and CCL2 expression; reduced activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling; and diminished proportion of recruited macrophages in colon tissues. It was further testified that HHT inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage activation with reduced activation of NF-κB signaling. In addition, HHT inhibited the M1 polarization of both human and mouse macrophages, while HHT did not affect the differentiation of human CD4 T cells into Th17, Th1, or Treg cells and did not affect the proliferation and migration of human colon epithelial cells. In summary, HHT attenuates DSS-induced colitis by inhibiting macrophage-associated NF-κB activation and M1 polarization, which could be an option for the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Concomitant Guillain-Barré Syndrome in a young Sri Lankan male with severe ulcerative colitis

Background

Guillain–Barré Syndrome is an immune mediated polyneuropathy. Ulcerative Colitis is an immune mediated chronic inflammatory condition mainly of the large intestine. Guillain–Barré Syndrome can present as a rare extraintestinal manifestation of Ulcerative Colitis when in remission or in a relapse. However, the concomitant presentation of Guillain–Barré Syndrome during a relapse of Ulcerative Colitis is very rare and only a few cases are reported to date.

Case presentation

A 24 year old young male diagnosed of Ulcerative Colitis presented with bloody diarrhea of frequency more than six times a day. He had been in clinical remission even after defaulting treatment for more than a year. He had also noted difficulty in walking prior to admission to the hospital. He was managed as for a severe relapse of Ulcerative Colitis and Guillain–Barré Syndrome. Appropriate management of both the illnesses helped him to recover.

Conclusion

Immune mediated diseases can have rare coexisting presentations. We report a case of Ulcerative Colitis with concomitant Guillain–Barré Syndrome. It is essential to be open minded and timely, appropriate treatment led to successful management of both the illnesses.

Huangkui lianchang decoction attenuates experimental colitis by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway and autophagy

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory colorectal disease characterized by excessive mucosal immune response activation and dysfunction of autophagy in intestinal epithelial cells. Traditional herbal preparations, including the Huangkui lianchang decoction (HLD), are effective in UC clinical treatment in East Asia, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. This study evaluated the therapeutic effects and associated molecular mechanisms of HLD in UC in vivo and in vitro. A C57BL/6 UC mouse model was established using 2.5% dextran sulfate sodium. The effects of HLD on the colonic structure and inflammation in mice were evaluated using mesalazine as the control. The anti-inflammatory effects of HLD were assessed using disease activity index (DAI) scores, histological scores, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. HLD displayed a protective effect in UC mice by reducing the DAI and colonic histological scores, as well as levels of inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB p65 in colonic tissues. NCM460 lipopolysaccharide-induced cells were administered drug serum-containing HLD (HLD-DS) to evaluate the protective effect against UC and the effect on autophagy. HLD-DS exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in NCM460 cells by reducing the levels of inflammatory cytokines and increasing interleukin 10 levels. HLD-DS reduced p-NF-κB p65, LC3II/I, and Beclin 1 expression, which suggested that HLD alleviated colitis by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway and autophagy. However, there was no crosstalk between the NF-κB pathway and autophagy. These findings confirmed that HLD was an effective herbal preparation for the treatment of UC.

Structural characteristics of locust bean gum hydrolysate and its alleviating effect on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory lesion of the colon from various causes. As current therapeutic drugs have adverse effects on patients with UC, there is a growing demand for alternative medicines from natural and functional foods. Locust bean gum, as a dietary fiber, has a variety of physiological effects.

Methods

In the present study, locust bean gum hydrolysate (LBGH) was obtained from the acid hydrolysis of locust bean gum. The structure of LBGH was characterized by thin-layer chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-electrospray ionization (ESI)-mass spectrometry (MS)/MS analysis. And we investigated the therapeutic effect of LBGH on a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis.

Results

It was observed that the LBGH consisted of a mixture of monosaccharides and oligosaccharides with a degree of polymerization (DP) 2–7. LBGH treatment dramatically alleviated colonic pathological damage, suppressed the overproduction of pro-inflammatory factors and the activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), increased the mRNA expression of tight junction proteins, and increased the abundance of probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in the gut.

Conclusion

There is a correlation between these mitigating effects on inflammation and the treatment of LBGH. Therefore, LBGH has tremendous potential in the treatment of colitis.

Mechanism of electroacupuncture and herb-partitioned moxibustion on ulcerative colitis animal model: A study based on proteomics

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, nonspecific intestinal inflammatory disease. Acupuncture and moxibustion is proved effective in treating UC, but the mechanism has not been clarified. Proteomic technology has revealed a variety of biological markers related to immunity and inflammation in UC, which provide new insights and directions for the study of mechanism of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment of UC.

AIM

To investigate the mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) and herb-partitioned moxibustion (HM) on UC rats by using proteomics technology.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the normal (N) group, the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC model (M) group, the HM group, and the EA group. UC rat model was prepared with 3% DSS, and HM and EA interventions at the bilateral Tianshu and Qihai acupoints were performed in HM or EA group. Haematoxylin and eosin staining was used for morphological evaluation of colon tissues. Isotope-labeled relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were performed for proteome analysis of the colon tissues, followed by bioinformatics analysis and protein-protein interaction networks establishment of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between groups. Then western blot was used for verification of selected DEPs.

RESULTS

The macroscopic colon injury scores and histopathology scores in the HM and EA groups were significantly decreased compared to the rats in the M group (P < 0.01). Compared with the N group, a total of 202 DEPs were identified in the M group, including 111 up-regulated proteins and 91 down-regulated proteins, of which 25 and 15 proteins were reversed after HM and EA interventions, respectively. The DEPs were involved in various biological processes such as biological regulation, immune system progression and in multiple pathways including natural killer cell mediated cytotoxicity, intestinal immune network for immunoglobulin A (IgA) production, and FcγR-mediated phagocytosis. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways of DEPs between HM and M groups, EA and M groups both included immune-associated and oxidative phosphorylation. Network analysis revealed that multiple pathways for the DEPs of each group were involved in protein-protein interactions, and the expression of oxidative phosphorylation pathway-related proteins, including ATP synthase subunit g (ATP5L), ATP synthase beta subunit precursor (Atp5f), cytochrome c oxidase subunit 4 isoform 1 (Cox4i1) were down-regulated after HM and EA interventions. Subsequent verification of selected DEPs (Synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A; nuclear cap binding protein subunit 1; carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 1; Cox4i1; ATP synthase subunit b, Atp5f1; doublecortin like kinase 3) by western blot confirmed the reliability of the iTRAQ data, HM and EA interventions can significantly down-regulate the expression of oxidative phosphorylation-associated proteins (Cox4i1, Atp5f1) (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

EA and HM could regulate the expression of ATP5L, Atp5f1, Cox4i1 that associated with oxidative phosphorylation, then might regulate immune-related pathways of intestinal immune network for IgA production, FcγR-mediated phagocytosis, thereby alleviating colonic inflammation of DSS-induced UC rats.

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.

Artemisinin Alleviates Intestinal Inflammation and Metabolic Disturbance in Ulcerative Colitis Rats Induced by DSS

Objective

This study is aimed to reveal the possible mechanisms of artemisinin in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) through bioinformatics analysis and experimental verification in UC model rats.

Methods

Firstly, we searched two microarray data of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to explore the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between UC samples and normal samples. Then, we selected DEGs for gene ontology (GO) function enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. The acute UC model of rats was established by using 3.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) for 10 days to verify the core pathway. Finally, we evaluated the therapeutic effect of artemisinin at the molecular level and used metabonomics to study the endogenous metabolites in the rat serum.

Results

We screened in the GEO database and selected two eligible microarray datasets, GSE36807 and GSE9452. We performed GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses of DEGs and found that these DEGs were mainly enriched in the inflammatory response, immune response, and IL-17 and NF-κB signaling pathways. Finally, we verified the IL-17 signaling pathway and key cytokines, and ELISA and immunohistochemical results showed that artemisinin could downregulate the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-17 in the IL-17 signaling pathway and upregulate the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine PPAR-γ. Metabolomics analysis showed that 33 differential metabolites were identified in the artemisinin group (AG) compared to the model group (MG). Differential metabolites were mainly involved in alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism and synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies.

Conclusion

In this study, we found that artemisinin can significantly inhibit the inflammatory response in UC rats and regulate metabolites and related metabolic pathways. This study provides a foundation for further research on the mechanism of artemisinin in the treatment of UC.

Efficacy and Safety of Probiotics Combined With Traditional Chinese Medicine for Ulcerative Colitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The combination of probiotics and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a prospective therapy for ulcerative colitis (UC), and its efficacy and safety need to be urgently evaluated.

Objective: This study aims to comprehensively assess the efficacy and safety of probiotics combined with TCM for the treatment of UC.

Methods: The Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, China Academic Journals (CNKI), Wan-fang database, Chinese biomedical literature service system (CBM), and Chinese Science and Technology Journals (CQVIP) were searched. Subgroup analysis were designed in accordance with different control drugs, treatment courses, and types of probiotics. The Review Manager software (version 5.4.1) was utilized for statistical analysis.

Results: 14 original studies containing 1,154 patients were analyzed and showed that probiotics with TCM was more effective than 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), probiotics or TCM used individually. Moreover, probiotics combined with TCM could inhibit the intestinal inflammation, reduce the recurrence rate and the incidence of adverse events. The subgroup analysis showed that a mixture of different probiotics was more effective than a single strain.

Conclusion: It is suggested that probiotics combined with TCM could effectively control clinical symptoms, inhibit intestinal inflammatory response, and finally slow down the disease progress and reduce the disease recurrence with less adverse events. The mixture of different probiotics used in conjunction with individually tailored TCM is a potential clinical strategy for UC.

Protective Effect of Ethyl Rosmarinate against Ulcerative Colitis in Mice Based on Untargeted Metabolomics

Aiming at assessing the therapeutic effect of ethyl rosmarinate (ER) on ulcerative colitis (UC), the following activities were performed in vitro and in vivo in the present study. Firstly, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cell inflammation model was established to determine the level of inflammatory factors. Then, a UC mice model induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was established to further investigate the effects of ER on symptoms, inflammatory factors and colon histopathology. Finally, serum and colon metabolomics studies were performed to identify the biomarkers and metabolisms closely related to the protective effect of ER on UC. The results showed that after ER intervention, the levels of inflammatory factors (NO, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) and key enzyme (MPO) in cell supernatant, serum or colon were significantly decreased, and the disease activity index and colon tissue damage in mice were also effectively improved or restored. In addition, 28 biomarkers and 6 metabolisms were found to be re-regulated by ER in the UC model mice. Therefore, it could be concluded that ER could effectively ameliorate the progression of UC and could be used as a new natural agent for the treatment of UC.

Capparis spinosa Alleviates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis via Regulation of the Gut Microbiota and Oxidative Stress

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Here, the potential effects of Capparis spinosa water extract (CSWE) on colonic histopathology, inflammation, and gut microbiota composition in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced UC mice were evaluated. Our results showed that CSWE treatment improved the colonic histopathology of UC mice, increased the levels of tight junction protein gene ZO-1 and Occludin in intestinal epithelial cells, and inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). Furthermore, CSWE administration alleviated oxidative stress in the colon of UC mice. The effects of CSWE on the compositions and metabolomic profiles of the gut microbiota in UC mice were investigated. It was found that CSWE could enhance the diversity of gut microbes and the abundance of probiotics and metabonomics had the strongest association with Firmicutes. Our results indicated that CSWE might be an ideal candidate as a potential therapeutic natural product for the treatment of UC.

Exploration of the potential mechanism of Banxia Xiexin Decoction for the effects on TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis rats with the assistance of network pharmacology analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Banxia Xiexin Decoction (BXD), an ancient TCM prescription originating from Treatise on Febrile Diseases (Shang Han Lun) of the Han Dynasty, has been widely used in modern clinical practice, especially for gastrointestinal diseases, including ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the modern decoction method of BXD differs from that of the original method. Thus, an exploration of the influence of the different decoction methods on the pharmacological effects is interesting and significant.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to systematically compare the pharmacological effects of extracts of BXD on TNBS induce UC rats that were prepared by different methods, the ancient method and the modern method. The findings may provide important information for the further mechanical exploration of the classical prescription, contributing to the rational application and enhancing the understanding of BXD in modern applications or scientific research.

METHODS

Fifty-four SD rats were randomly divided into the following nine groups at n = 6/group: control group; model group; salicylazosulfapyridine group; BXD ancient extraction method's low-dose group (BXD-AED-L, 3.6 g BXD-AED/kg), medium-dose group (BXD-AED-M, 7.2 g BXD-AED/kg), and high-dose group (BXD-AED-H, 14.4 g BXD-AED/kg); and BXD modern extraction method's low-dose group (BXD-MED-L, 1 g BXD-MED/kg), medium-dose group (BXD-MED-M, 2 g BXD-MED/kg), and high-dose group (BXD-MED-H, 4 g BXD-MED/kg). All the groups, except the control group, were rectally injected with 70 mg/kg ethanol solution containing TNBS (2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid) to establish the UC models. The pharmacological evaluations including disease activity index, colon weight index, macroscopic and histological evaluation of colon damage, and inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-4, IL-10, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6)were measured. In the network pharmacology analysis, the "herbs-components-targets-disease" network was constructed and visually analyzed with which the targets with a strong correlation with UC were screened out.

RESULTS

The results showed that both BXD-AED and BXD-MED might alleviate the severity of UC with different degrees according to the majority of indices that were evaluated. At similar doses, the BXD-AED groups performed better compared with the BXD-MED groups. With the assistance of the network pharmacology analysis, some key active components (quercetin, baicalein, wogonin, and baicalin) related to the anti-UC/inflammation were screened out. The contents of the components in BXD-AED were higher than those in BXD-MED. The joint results of the study indicated that BXD, an ancient TCM compound prescription, is an effective drug candidate for the modern treatment of UC.

Based on Network Pharmacology to Explore the Potential Bioactive Compounds and Mechanisms of Zuojin Pill for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Background

Zuojin Pill (ZJP), a classic prescription, has the potential to prevent ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the active components and mechanisms of ZJP are still arcane. This study aimed to use a network pharmacology approach to find the bioactive compounds and potential action mechanisms of ZJP in the treatment of UC.

Methods

Firstly, the components and putative targets of ZJP were collected based on herbal medicine target databases, and a network containing the interaction between the targets of ZJP and the potential therapeutic targets of UC was established. Then, topological parameters were calculated to identify the key targets in the network and, in turn, to import them into the David database to perform path enrichment analysis.

Results

14 potential therapeutic components of ZJP and 26 key targets were obtained. These targets were related to signal transduction, MAPK cascade, inflammatory response, immune response, and the apoptotic process of UC. Moreover, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, toll-like receptor signaling pathway, and Prolactin signaling pathway were predicted to participate in ZJP treating UC. Among them, 14 active components of ZJP directly regulate these pathways.

Conclusion

ZJP could alleviate UC through the predicted components and mechanisms. The 14 predicted active components of ZJP may mainly play a therapeutic role for UC through synergistic regulation of the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway.

Capparis spinosa Alleviates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis via Regulation of the Gut Microbiota and Oxidative Stress

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Here, the potential effects of Capparis spinosa water extract (CSWE) on colonic histopathology, inflammation, and gut microbiota composition in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced UC mice were evaluated. Our results showed that CSWE treatment improved the colonic histopathology of UC mice, increased the levels of tight junction protein gene ZO-1 and Occludin in intestinal epithelial cells, and inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). Furthermore, CSWE administration alleviated oxidative stress in the colon of UC mice. The effects of CSWE on the compositions and metabolomic profiles of the gut microbiota in UC mice were investigated. It was found that CSWE could enhance the diversity of gut microbes and the abundance of probiotics and metabonomics had the strongest association with Firmicutes. Our results indicated that CSWE might be an ideal candidate as a potential therapeutic natural product for the treatment of UC.