Effects of Shenfu injection on intestinal microbiota and inflammation in sepsis mice

Sepsis remains a critical challenge in intensive care medicine, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of Shenfu Injection , a traditional Chinese medicinal formulation, in sepsis management through gut microbiota modulation and inflammatory regulation. Utilizing a cecal ligation and puncture -induced sepsis model, we administered SFI via tail vein injection and systematically evaluated its effects. Results demonstrated that SFI treatment significantly ameliorated intestinal inflammation and reduced serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and renal injury markers. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed SFI-mediated gut microbial remodeling, characterized by a marked reduction in pathogenic Escherichia-Shigella abundance and concurrent enrichment of beneficial probiotics, including Akkermansia and Lactobacillus. Mechanistically, SFI exhibited dual regulatory effects on both systemic inflammation and gut microbiota homeostasis. These findings not only validate SFI's efficacy in sepsis treatment but also propose a novel mechanism involving gut microbiome modulation. This study provides critical experimental evidence for repurposing traditional Chinese medicine in sepsis therapy and establishes a foundation for future research on microbiota-targeted interventions in critical care.