In vivo effects on the intestinal microflora of Physalis alkekengi var. francheti extracts

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Microbiology
• Natural Products

Background:

• Intestinal microflora imbalance is linked to various health issues.
• Physalis alkekengi var. francheti is a plant with traditional medicinal uses.
• Understanding the impact of natural extracts on gut microbiota is crucial for developing novel therapeutics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of Physalis alkekengi var. francheti extracts (PE) on the intestinal microflora balance in a mouse model.
• To identify key compounds within PE responsible for these effects.
• To evaluate the potential of PE as a natural agent for restoring gut health.

Main Methods:

• In vivo mouse model used to assess the impact of PE on intestinal microflora.
• Isolation and identification of active compounds including Luteolin-7-O-β-glycoside, Physalin J, Physalin D, and Physalin P from PE.
• Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis to characterize dominant gut bacteria.
• Quantitative and qualitative assessment of bacterial populations, particularly the Lactobacillus genus.

Main Results:

• Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Helicobacter, Prevotella, Odoribacter, and Oribacterium were identified as dominant intestinal organisms.
• A significant increase in the quality and quantity of the Lactobacillus genus was observed with increasing PE concentration.
• PE demonstrated a dose-dependent positive effect on the intestinal microflora.

Conclusions:

• Physalis alkekengi var. francheti extracts (PE) can beneficially modulate the intestinal microflora balance.
• The observed effects are likely mediated by compounds such as Luteolin-7-O-β-glycoside and Physalins.
• PE shows significant potential as a natural therapeutic agent for restoring gut microbiota homeostasis.