Fuzi polysaccharides improve immunity in immunosuppressed mouse models by regulating gut microbiota composition

Rationale and objectivesFuzi, the dried root of Aconitum carmichaelii Debx, is one widely used traditional Chinese medicines. Fuzi polysaccharides are considered most bioactive compounds with immunomodulatory functions, however, mechanisms have not been evaluated. This study aims to systematically investigate effects on gut microbiota immune function using a mouse model immunosuppressed cyclophosphamide.MethodsThe short-chain fatty acid levels in cecal contents were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The 16S rRNA gene sequenced next generation sequencing. mRNA expression NF-κB, IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS COX-2 quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. protein occludin zonula occludens-1 analyzed Western blot. white blood cells counted automated hematology analyzer, CD4+FOXP3+/CD4+ ratio was flow cytometry.Results ConclusionsFuzi had elevating concentration acetic acid, propionic isobutyric n-butyric cecum. Meanwhile, could decrease relative abundance Helicobacter, Anaerotruncus, Faecalibacterium, Lachnospira, Erysipelotrichaceae_UCG-003, Mucispirillum, Mycoplasma, increase Rhodospirillales, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-013, Mollicutes_RF39, Ruminococcus_1, Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, Muribaculaceae gut. Furthermore, exhibited increasing spleen thymus indices number lymphocytes. reverse decreased NF-кB, iNOS, differentiation CD4+FOXP3+ regulatory T as well induced cyclophosphamide. In addition, cytokines significantly correlated under treatment. Collectively, above results demonstrated that regulate inflammatory composition immunosuppressive mice improve immunity, thereby shedding light revealing molecular mechanism medicines future.