Arctiin alleviates functional constipation by enhancing intestinal motility in mice

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Gastroenterology
• Natural Products

Background:

• Functional constipation (FC) is a prevalent global health issue linked to intestinal motility disorders.
• Arctiin (Arc), a lignan glycoside from *Arctium lappa L.*, is recognized for its health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the laxative effects of Arctiin (Arc) in a mouse model of functional constipation (FC).
• To evaluate Arc's impact on gastrointestinal motility, neurotransmitter levels, and colonic tissue integrity.

Main Methods:

• A loperamide-induced functional constipation (FC) model was established in ICR mice.
• Mice were treated with Arctiin (Arc) at 100 mg/kg, and outcomes including fecal characteristics, intestinal transit, and colonic histology were assessed.
• Levels of motilin (MTL), nitric oxide (NO), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) were quantified.

Main Results:

• Arctiin (Arc) treatment normalized fecal output and water content, and improved intestinal transit ratio in constipated mice.
• Histological examination revealed that Arc mitigated loperamide-induced colonic injury, inflammation, and aquaporin expression.
• Arc administration increased motilin and BDNF levels while decreasing nitric oxide and ICC injury in the colon.

Conclusions:

• Arctiin (Arc) demonstrates significant pro-motility effects, offering a protective impact against functional constipation (FC).
• Arc presents a potential therapeutic strategy for managing functional constipation due to its beneficial effects on intestinal motility and colonic health.