Effects of Jian Pi Qing Chang Hua Shi decoction on mucosal injuries in a 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid-induced inflammatory bowel disease rat model

Abstract

Context: Jian Pi Qing Chang Hua Shi decoction (JPQCHSD) has been considered as an effective remedy for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Chinese traditional medicine. Objective: We evaluated the efficacy of JPQCHSD on 2-4-6-trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS)-induced IBD rats and the responsible mechanisms. Materials and methods: Except the rats of the control group (50% ethanol), Sprague–Dawley rats (180 ± 20 g) induced by TNBS (150 mg/kg in 50% ethanol), received water extract of JPQCHSD daily at 0, 9.5, 19, or 38 g/kg for 12 days. The rats were sacrificed, and their colons were removed to evaluate the disease activity index. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), myeloperoxidase (MPO), immunoglobulin A (IgA), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and nuclear factor-κB were evaluated. Results: JPQCHSD extract significantly reduced the disease activity index of TNBS-induced colitis with a median effective dose (ED50) of 26.93 g/kg. MPO and MDA were significantly reduced in the 19 and 38 g/kg groups (ED50 values 37.38 and 53.2 g/kg, respectively). The ED50 values for the increased SOD and IgA were 48.98 and 56.3 g/kg. ED50 values for inhibition of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were 32.66, 75.72, and 162.06 g/kg, respectively. Discussion: JPQCHSD promoted mucosal healing in IBD rats via its anti-inflammation, immune regulation, and antioxidation properties. Conclusions: JPQCHSD has healing function on IBD. Further clinical trials are needed to demonstrate its efficacy and tolerance to IBD.