In this study, we investigated the potential regulatory mechanisms of KFX on Dextran Sulfate Sodium Salt (DSS)-induced UC in mice by 16 S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolomics analysis of colonic contents. Differentially expressed metabolites and metabolic pathways were detected using a colon contents metabolomics-based approach. 16 S rRNA gene sequencing was used to assess changes in gut microbes at the genus level and for functional prediction. Results revealed metabolic disturbances in UC mice associated with 33 bacterial genera and 70 metabolites in the gut. Collectively, these findings suggest that UC is associated with metabolic disorders and microbial dysbiosis. Further, our data indicate that KFX administration is accompanied by significant alterations in intestinal flora composition and metabolic profiles, which may contribute to its protective effects against UC. However, the causal relationships between these microbial and metabolic changes and the therapeutic effects of KFX remain to be established.
Yue et al. (Thu,) studied this question.