Rikkunshito (TJ-43) Improved Reduction of Food Intake in a Murine Cardiac Transplantation Model

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Immunology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Rikkunshito (TJ-43) is an eight-component traditional Japanese herbal medicine.
• It is clinically used for gastritis, vomiting, and appetite loss.
• Cardiac allograft transplantation can lead to post-operative appetite loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of Rikkunshito (TJ-43) on ameliorating appetite loss in a murine cardiac allograft transplantation model.

Main Methods:

• CBA mice underwent syngeneic or allogeneic heart transplantation.
• Mice received oral administration of TJ-43 (2 g/kg/d) or distilled water.
• Food intake and weight changes were monitored from day 1 to 28 post-operation.

Main Results:

• Allogeneic group showed significantly reduced food intake compared to the syngeneic group in the first week.
• TJ-43 administration tended to ameliorate the reduction in food intake in both syngeneic and allogeneic groups during the first two weeks.
• No significant effect on food intake was observed after 4 weeks of TJ-43 exposure.

Conclusions:

• Rikkunshito (TJ-43) may prevent the reduction of food intake induced by the surgical stress of murine cardiac allograft transplantation.
• TJ-43 shows potential as an adjunct therapy for managing appetite loss in post-transplant patients.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and long-term efficacy of TJ-43 in transplantation settings.