raw date Dahuang Gancao Dandelion Decoction regulates intestinal flora and inhibits NF-κB / ARA signaling pathway to alleviate ulcerative colitis

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of Dahuang Gancao Dandelion Decoction (DGD-D) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in a mice model, with an emphasis on modulation of gut microbiota and intestinal metabolites, maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity, and inhibition of inflammatory signaling pathways. Methods: Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QE-MS) was used to examine the DGD-D, which was prepared from 40 g rhubarb, 10 g licorice, and 10 g dandelion. Potential routes and targets were found using network pharmacology. Six male C57BL/6 mice per group were randomized into control, DSS, DGD-D, and mesalazine (5-ASA) groups. UC was induced with 3% DSS for 7 days, with DGD-D administered prophylactically at 1950 mg/kg. Evaluated parameters included colon length, spleen index, and DAI, cytokine levels (ELISA, qRT-PCR), histological changes (H&E, PAS, AB-PAS), barrier proteins (IF, IHC, qRT-PCR), gut microbiota (16S rRNA sequencing), metabolites (LC-MS) and pathway validation. Results: UHPLC-QE-MS identified 418 components in DGD-D, including flavonoids (25.12%) and phenolic acids (9.33%). Network pharmacology highlighted NF-κB signaling as a key pathway. In comparison to DSS, DGD-D dramatically decreased spleen index, restored colon length, and decreased DAI scores (P