# Modulation of distinct gut microbiota signatures in acute and chronic DSS-colitis by Bawei Huangqin enema in mice

## TL;DR

This study shows that gut bacteria differ in acute and chronic colitis in mice, and a traditional Chinese medicine enema helps by restoring gut health and strengthening the intestinal barrier.

## Contribution

The study identifies stage-specific gut microbiota changes in colitis and demonstrates a traditional Chinese medicine's dual effect on microbiome and intestinal barrier repair.

## Key findings

- Gut microbiota profiles differ significantly between acute and chronic DSS-colitis in mice.
- BHE treatment reduces inflammation by modulating gut microbiota and enhancing intestinal barrier integrity.
- BHE upregulates tight junction proteins Occludin and MUC2 to repair the intestinal barrier.

## Abstract

Intestinal microbiota plays a key role in ulcerative colitis (UC), and its composition may vary between the disease’s acute (AUC) and chronic (CUC) stages. Using dextran sulfate sodium-induced mice models of AUC and CUC, this study characterized their distinct microbial dysbiosis patterns and evaluated the efficacy of a traditional Chinese medicine formula, Bawei Huangqin Enema (BHE). BHE treatment effectively alleviated colonic inflammation in both models. This was achieved by remodeling the gut microbiota in a stage-specific manner and by enhancing intestinal barrier integrity through the upregulation of tight junction proteins Occludin and MUC2. These findings highlight the distinct microbial features of AUC versus CUC and suggest that BHE’s therapeutic potential derives from its dual regulation of the microbiome and intestinal barrier, supporting a multi-target approach for managing UC.

•Gut microbiota profiles differ between acute and chronic colitis models•Bawei Huangqin Enema (BHE) is therapeutic in acute and chronic colitis•BHE modulates gut microbiota and repairs the intestinal barrier

Gut microbiota profiles differ between acute and chronic colitis models

Bawei Huangqin Enema (BHE) is therapeutic in acute and chronic colitis

BHE modulates gut microbiota and repairs the intestinal barrier

Microbiome; Omics