Si-jun-zi decoction treatment promotes the restoration of intestinal function after obstruction by regulating intestinal homeostasis.

Xiangyang Yu,Naiqiang Cui,Zhigang Cui,Tao Shan,Zhenli Zhou,Donghua Li

doi:10.1155/2014/928579

Abstract

Intestinal obstruction is a common disease requiring abdominal surgery with significant morbidity and mortality. Currently, an effective medical treatment for obstruction, other than surgical resection or decompression, does not exist. Si-Jun-Zi Decoction is a famous Chinese medicine used to replenish qi and invigorate the functions of the spleen. Modern pharmacological studies show that this prescription can improve gastrointestinal function and strengthen immune function. In this study, we investigated the effects of a famous Chinese herbal formula, Si-Jun-Zi Decoction, on the restoration of intestinal function after the relief of obstruction in a rabbit model. We found that Si-Jun-Zi Decoction could reduce intestinal mucosal injury while promoting the recovery of the small intestine. Further, Si-Jun-Zi Decoction could regulate the intestinal immune system. Our results suggest that Si-Jun-Zi Decoction promotes the restoration of intestinal function after obstruction by regulating intestinal homeostasis. Our observations indicate that Si-Jun-Zi Decoction is potentially a therapeutic drug for intestinal obstruction.

Highlights

Intestinal obstruction is a common disease requiring abdominal surgery with significant morbidity and mortality
Our results indicate that Si-Jun-Zi Decoction promotes the restoration of intestinal function by regulating intestinal homeostasis
The intestinal mucosal barrier is the first line of host defense against intestinal pathogens, and intestinal obstruction induces sever intestinal mucosal injury [16]

Summary

Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a common disease requiring abdominal surgery with significant morbidity and mortality. Regardless of the initial cause of the obstruction, a series of pathophysiological changes occur in the obstructed segments These changes are responsible for symptoms such as bloating, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and constipation and may lead to intestinal failure [2]. The dynamic crosstalk between intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) and local immune cells represents one of the fundamental features of intestinal homeostasis. These interactions are important for the pathogenesis of intestinal disorders such as IBD, Crohn’s disease, and intestinal obstruction, and essential for maintaining normal intestinal homeostasis [4]. Restoration of intestinal homeostasis may be an attractive strategy for treatment of human intestinal obstruction

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Results

Conclusion