Chlorogenic Acid Alleviates Chronic Stress-Induced Ileal Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Rats by Influencing Intestinal Flora and Activating Nrf2 Pathway

TL;DR

Chlorogenic acid helps protect the gut from stress damage by reducing oxidative stress and supporting healthy gut bacteria in rats.

Contribution

This study reveals that chlorogenic acid mitigates stress-induced gut damage through Nrf2 pathway activation and modulation of gut microbiota.

Findings

Chlorogenic acid reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in the ileum of stressed rats.

It activated the Nrf2 pathway by altering Keap1 conformation and increasing antioxidant proteins.

Gut microbiota balance improved, with increased Lactobacillus abundance after CGA treatment.

Abstract

Chronic stress can harm our digestive system by damaging the gut and affecting the bacteria that live in it. This study looked at whether chlorogenic acid, a natural compound found in foods like coffee and fruits, can protect the gut from stress-related damage. Using a rat model, we found that chlorogenic acid reduced harmful oxidative stress, prevented cell death in the gut lining, and helped maintain healthy gut bacteria. It also activated a natural antioxidant pathway in the body. These results suggest that chlorogenic acid could be used as a dietary supplement to help protect intestinal health under stress. This research offers a natural approach to supporting gut health and overall well-being.

Background: Chronic stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal disorders, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributing significantly. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a polyphenolic compound, exhibits antioxidant properties. This study investigated whether CGA mitigates ROS-mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis in chronic stress-induced ileal injury. Methods: Rats were subjected to restraint stress for 21 days, with/without CGA (100 mg/kg, gavage). CGA’s mechanism was elucidated by assessing ileal flora, oxidative stress markers, apoptosis, structural changes, and the Nrf2 pathway. Results: CGA restored ileal structure, attenuated ROS and MDA levels, elevated GSH and SOD levels, and reduced apoptosis-associated proteins. CGA stabilized conformation bound to Keap1, deregulating Keap1’s negative regulation of Nrf2, thereby increasing Nrf2 and downstream protein expression (HO-1 and NQO1). Gut microbiota imbalance was corrected, with increased Lactobacillus abundance post-CGA intervention. Conclusions: CGA alleviates chronic stress-induced ileal oxidative stress and apoptosis, which relates closely to Nrf2 pathway activation and modulation of intestinal microflora.

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