Rifaximin alleviates irinotecan-induced diarrhea in mice model.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Irinotecan is a chemotherapy drug used for solid tumors.
• A significant side effect of irinotecan is delayed-onset diarrhea.
• This study investigates rifaximin's protective effects against irinotecan-induced mucositis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To confirm the protective effects of rifaximin against irinotecan-induced diarrhea and mucositis in a mouse model.
• To evaluate rifaximin's impact on gut microbiota and barrier function following irinotecan treatment.

Main Methods:

• Mice were treated with irinotecan, rifaximin, or a combination.
• Diarrhea, body weight, and intestinal tissues were monitored.
• Gut microbiota composition, bacterial enzyme activity, and gut permeability were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Rifaximin reduced the frequency and severity of irinotecan-induced diarrhea.
• Rifaximin inhibited SN38 exposure and bacterial β-glucuronidase activity.
• Rifaximin alleviated intestinal inflammation, protected epithelial damage, and maintained gut barrier function.
• Rifaximin modulated gut microbiota composition without causing dysbiosis.

Conclusions:

• Preventive administration of rifaximin is a viable strategy to mitigate irinotecan-induced diarrhea.
• Rifaximin demonstrates potential as a protective agent against chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal toxicity.