Enteromorpha and polysaccharides from enteromorpha ameliorate loperamide-induced constipation in mice

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Marine Biotechnology
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Slow-transit constipation (STC) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder with limited treatment options.
• Conventional laxatives like Senna can cause adverse effects.
• Marine algae, such as Enteromorpha (EP), are sources of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of EP and Polysaccharides from Enteromorpha (PEP) in a loperamide-induced constipation mouse model.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, including effects on gastrointestinal transit, inflammation, and gut microbiota.

Main Methods:

• Loperamide-induced STC mouse model.
• Assessment of fecal water content, defecation frequency, and gastrointestinal transit time.
• Analysis of serum nitric oxide (NO) and distal colon VIPR1 and 5-HT4 receptor expression.
• 16S rRNA sequencing for gut microbiota analysis.

Main Results:

• EP and PEP significantly improved intestinal motility and reduced constipation-related inflammation.
• Treatment with EP and PEP decreased serum NO levels, down-regulated VIPR1 expression, and up-regulated 5-HT4 expression in the distal colon.
• Gut microbiota composition and structure were restored by EP and PEP treatment in constipated mice.

Conclusions:

• EP and PEP demonstrate significant therapeutic potential for constipation.
• These marine-derived compounds offer a promising natural alternative for constipation management strategies.
• The mechanisms involve enhancing gut motility, reducing inflammation, modulating neurotransmitter receptors, and restoring gut microbiota balance.