Integrated UHPLC-MS/MS and 16S rRNA sequencing reveals that Weiling Decoction alleviates spleen deficiency with dampness pattern diarrhea by modulating intestinal microbiota.
Weiling Decoction may modulate intestinal microbiota and affect gastrointestinal functions in a rodent model of SDDP diarrhea, but the clinical relevance of these findings remains uncertain.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the vip (vasoactive intestinal polypeptide) corpusSummary and findings
This study evaluated the effects of Weiling Decoction (WLD) on spleen deficiency with dampness pattern (SDDP) diarrhea in Kunming mice. The intervention involved assessing histological and biochemical changes, including serum vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) levels. Results indicated modulation of intestinal microbiota and restoration of gastrointestinal functions.
Abstract
Spleen deficiency with dampness pattern (SDDP) diarrhea is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder, yet the therapeutic mechanisms of the clinically effective Weiling Decoction (WLD) require further elucidation. In this study, an SDDP model was established in Kunming mice via high-humidity exposure and oral lard administration. The chemical profile of WLD was characterized using UHPLC-MS/MS, which identified twenty primary bioactive compounds, including vicenin-1, inosine, and chlorogenic acid. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated through histological and biochemical assays, demonstrating that WLD promoted the restoration of small intestinal villus length and increased the number of goblet cells per unit area. Furthermore, WLD elevated serum cAMP, D-xylose, and gastrin levels while reducing serum cGMP and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) levels. To investigate microecological mechanisms, 16S rRNA sequencing was utilized, revealing that WLD significantly increased the relative abundances of Limosilactobacillus, Dwaynesavagella, and Paramuribaculum in the small intestinal contents. Additionally, PICRUSt2 was applied to predict functional shifts in microbial metabolic pathways, suggesting that secondary bile acid biosynthesis may be a critical mechanistic pathway for treating SDDP diarrhea. Collectively, WLD alleviates SDDP diarrhea by modulating the intestinal microbiota and restoring the host's gastrointestinal-water-energy regulatory network; these correlative findings suggest a microbiota-associated pharmacological mechanism, providing a biotechnological basis for the "syndrome-matched" treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at https://doi.org/10.1007/s13205-026-05052-y.
Background
This paper addresses the therapeutic mechanisms of Weiling Decoction (WLD) for treating spleen deficiency with dampness pattern (SDDP) diarrhea, a common gastrointestinal disorder. Previous studies have indicated that WLD may have beneficial effects, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatments for SDDP diarrhea.
Methods
An SDDP model was established in Kunming mice through high-humidity exposure and oral lard administration. The chemical profile of WLD was characterized using UHPLC-MS/MS. Histological and biochemical assays were conducted to evaluate therapeutic efficacy, while 16S rRNA sequencing was used to investigate changes in intestinal microbiota.
Results
The study demonstrated that WLD promoted restoration of small intestinal villus length and increased goblet cell numbers. Serum levels of cAMP, D-xylose, and gastrin were elevated, while cGMP and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) levels were reduced. The 16S rRNA sequencing revealed significant increases in specific bacterial genera.
Interpretation
The findings suggest that WLD may modulate intestinal microbiota and biochemical markers related to gastrointestinal function. However, the clinical significance of these changes remains uncertain, particularly given the use of a rodent model. The small sample size and lack of detailed statistical analysis further limit the conclusions that can be drawn.
Key findings
- Increased small intestinal villus length and goblet cell count observed.
- Elevated serum cAMP, D-xylose, and gastrin levels.
- Reduced serum cGMP and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) levels.
- Significant increase in relative abundances of Limosilactobacillus, Dwaynesavagella, and Paramuribaculum.
Limitations
- Rodent model may not fully translate to humans.
- Sample size not specified.
- Statistical analyses not detailed in abstract.
- Short-term study with unclear long-term effects.