Water-Soluble Cellulose Acetate Changes the Intestinal Microbiota in Mice with Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Microbiology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a widespread liver condition with increasing global prevalence.
• The gut microbiota plays a significant role in the development and progression of NAFLD.
• Targeting the intestinal microbiota presents a potential therapeutic strategy for managing NAFLD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of water-soluble cellulose acetate (WSCA) on the gut microbiota.
• To evaluate the therapeutic effects of WSCA in a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse model.

Main Methods:

• A non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse model (STAM mice) was established using streptozotocin injection and a high-fat diet.
• Serum biochemical parameters were analyzed.
• Intestinal bacterial populations were profiled using 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, and internal transcribed spacer gene sequencing.

Main Results:

• WSCA administration showed a trend towards improving serum alanine aminotransferase and glucose levels in STAM mice.
• WSCA intake altered the gut microbiota by decreasing alpha diversity and modifying beta diversity.
• Specific microbial changes included an increased abundance of Coriobacteriaceae_UCG-002 and a decreased abundance of Enterobacter.

Conclusions:

• WSCA intake modulates gut microbial composition.
• These alterations are associated with improved blood glucose levels and liver function.
• WSCA may hold potential for improving the pathogenesis of NAFLD.