Saposhnikovia divaricata root and its major components ameliorate inflammation and altered gut microbial diversity and compositions in DSS-induced colitis

Background: The root of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk is a well-known traditional medicinal plant, containing various bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. However, no scientific studies have validated its clinical use as an anti-inflammatory agent against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study aimed to investigate whether the root extract of S. divaricata ameliorates IBD and induces gut microbial alteration, using a RAW 264.7 cell line and a DSS-induced colitis mouse model.Methods: To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects and alleviation of IBD, using a methanol extract of Saposh-nikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk. root (MESD), RAW 264.7, murine macrophages and a dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model were employed. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was conducted to determine the alterations in the gut microbiota of mice with DSS-induced colitis.Results: MESD significantly decreased nitric oxide (NO) and inflammatory cytokine levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells in vitro . Oral administration of MESD reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the colons of mice with DSS-induced colitis. Additionally, MESD inhibited the abundance of Clostrid-ium sensu stricto 1 and enhanced the predicted functional pathways, including L-glutamate degradation VIII (to propanoic acid). Seven compounds with anti-inflammatory properties were isolated from the MESD. Among them, 3 ' -O-acetylhamaudol and 3 ' -O-angeloylhamaudol exhibited strong anti-inflammatory effects in vitro .Conclusion: Overall, MESD may be a potential natural product for the treatment of IBD by lowering inflammatory cytokine levels and altering gut microbiota composition.

Automated summary

The root extract of S. divaricata showed potential in treating IBD by reducing inflammatory cytokine levels and altering gut microbiota composition.