Archidendron clypearia extract ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice and modulates gut microbiota composition.

Archidendron clypearia is an important traditional Chinese medicinal herb in southern China. Related studies have shown that Archidendron clypearia is rich in bioactive components such as flavonoids and organic phenolic acids, which possess antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can clear heat and detoxify, cool the blood and reduce swelling, eliminate dampness, and promote wound healing. Currently, practical research on the use of Archidendron clypearia in animal husbandry production is relatively limited. Both preventive and therapeutic intervention models were employed. Forty male ICR mice were used in the preventive model, and forty-eight mice in the therapeutic model including a 5-ASA positive control group (200 mg/kg). After colitis induction with 3% Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS), preventive or therapeutic Archidendron clypearia extract (ACE)was administrated at 75, 150, or 300 mg/kg/day. Metabolomic analysis confirmed flavonoid glycosides and phenolic acids as major constituents of ACE. ACE treatment, particularly at 150 and 300 mg/kg, significantly ameliorated DSS-induced colonic pathological damage. 16 S rRNA sequencing revealed that ACE intervention increased the α-diversity indices of the gut microbiota and shifted its overall structure (β-diversity). Notably, it promoted the relative abundance of beneficial bacterial genera, including Lactobacillus. ACE alleviates DSS-induced colitis and concurrently modulates gut microbiota, suggesting an association between the colitis amelioration and beneficial microbial shifts. This supports further study of ACE for intestinal health.