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Analyzing Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Functions During Experimental Colitis
Published on: January 5, 2017
Indole compounds may be promising medicines for ulcerative colitis
Shinya Sugimoto1, Makoto Naganuma1, Takanori Kanai2
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.
Indole compounds from traditional Chinese medicine show potential for treating ulcerative colitis (UC). These compounds, produced by gut microbes, activate pathways crucial for mucosal healing and may offer new therapeutic strategies for UC patients.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Indole compounds, historically used as dyes, are found in indigo naturalis (Qing-Dai).
- Traditional Chinese medicine utilizes Qing-Dai for inflammatory conditions like ulcerative colitis (UC).
- Intestinal microbiota biosynthesize indole compounds from tryptophan metabolites, influencing host functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the origin and function of indole compounds in traditional Chinese medicine.
- To explore the role of indole compounds and their metabolites in gut health.
- To discuss the drug development of indole compounds for therapeutic applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on indole compounds, intestinal microbiota, and UC.
- Analysis of indole compound interactions with host signaling pathways, including the aryl hydrocarbon receptor.
- Examination of the role of indole compounds in mucosal healing and inflammation.
Main Results:
- Indole compounds, such as indigo and indirubin, act as ligands for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor.
- Activation of this receptor stimulates interleukin-22 production by innate lymphoid cells.
- This pathway promotes antimicrobial peptide and tight junction molecule production, aiding mucosal healing.
Conclusions:
- Indole compounds derived from gut microbiota and traditional herbs play a significant role in mucosal healing.
- These compounds represent a promising novel therapeutic strategy for ulcerative colitis (UC).
- Further drug development of indole compounds is warranted for treating inflammatory bowel diseases.
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