Exploring the mechanism of Cinnamomum migao H.W. Li on gastric ulcer based on untargeted and targeted metabolomics

Cinnamomum Migao oil (CMO), derived from Cinnamomum migao H.W. Li, is commonly used to alleviate stomachache in China, but its mechanism remains unclear. This research evaluated the protective influence of CMO against gastric ulcer (GU) in ethanol-treated rat models, using untargeted/targeted metabolomics combined with molecular biology experimental techniques to determine its mechanism. The data revealed that CMO significantly ameliorated gastric mucosal damage, reduced the ulcer index, decreased the contents of TNF-α, MDA, and IL-6, and elevated SOD and GSH levels in gastric tissues. Untargeted metabolomics analysis using UHPLC Q-Exactive Orbitrap HRMS revealed that CMO treatment for GU may primarily involve the regulation of purine metabolism. Further validation using UPLC-MS/MS quantitatively measured purine metabolite levels and assessed the impact on key enzymes in the purine metabolic pathway. It was found that CMO regulated the levels of uric acid, xanthine, AMP, IMP, adenosine, inosine, adenine, and hypoxanthine in the purine metabolism pathway of GU rats by modulating ADA, XOD, and PNP. Additionally, CMO altered Nrf2, Keap1, HO-1, NQO1, and NLRP3 expression. This investigation elucidated that CMO combats GUs by regulating purine metabolism and stimulating the Nrf2/HO-1/NLRP3 axis, thereby inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation. These results furnished a theoretical foundation for future research on CMO and its application.