Research progress in gut microbiota dysregulation in ulcerative colitis and its regulation by traditional Chinese medicine

Abstract:

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic non-specific intestinal inflammatory disease with complex pathogenesis. Recent studies have identified a pivotal role of the gut microbiota in the etiology of the disease. Beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been shown to regulate the balance of the gut microbiota, repair the mucosal barrier, and alleviate inflammation. In contrast, excessive proliferation or secretion of toxins by harmful bacteria, such as Escherichia, can damage the integrity of the mucosa, induce inflammation, and accelerate the progression of UC. The active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine, such as Scutellariae radix polysaccharides, pulchinenosides, and ginsenoside Rg1, may offer a promising avenue for the treatment of UC by modulating the structure of the gut microbiota and enhancing the barrier function and mucosal integrity. The present article reviews the latest research progress in the regulation mechanism of the gut microbiota in UC and the traditional Chinese medicine intervention, with a view to providing new strategies and theoretical support for clinical treatment.