Intervention Effect of Benzoylmesaconine on Slow Transit Constipation in Rats

Abstract

Background: Slow transit constipation (STC) is a chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction that significantly impairs the quality of life for many individuals. This study aims to explore the role and mechanism of Benzoylmesaconine (BAC) in the treatment of STC. Methods: Rats were treated with loperamide (Lop) hydrochloride for 7 days to build the STC model. After that, they were given BAC concentrated solution and 0.2 g/L Mosapride via intragastric treatment. The rats body weight was monitored, and their intestinal propulsion rate was determined using the intestinal charcoal powder propulsion assay. Pathological symptoms were assessed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Additionally, the concentrations of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in both serum and colon tissues were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression levels of 5-HT receptor 3 (5-HT3R), 5-HT receptor 4 (5-HT4R) and Chlorogenic acid (CgA) were evaluated using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF), respectively. Moreover, the gut microbiota profiles of fecal samples were analyzed through 16S rRNA analysis. Results: BAC treatment improved the intestinal propulsion rate and pathological symptoms induced by Lop. In rats treated with Lop, the concentrations of 5-HT in both serum and colon tissues, and the expression levels of 5-HT3R, 5-HT4R (p < 0.05), and CgA were decreased. However, these levels were restored with the BAC and mosapride treatments. Additionally, BAC improved the decrease of intestinal microflora caused by Lop and changed the fecal microbial composition caused by Lop. Conclusions: BAC alleviated the symptoms of STC and improved the composition of intestinal microflora associated with STC. These findings suggest that BAC could be a potential treatment for functional bowel disease.