Uncovering the metabolomic effects of Kampo formulas using 1H‐NMR spectroscopy: A case study of goreisan

Abstract

AbstractAimThe purpose of this study was to explore the effects of goreisan (GRS) on rats through the analysis of 1H‐NMR of urine samples, to assess the variations in metabolites affected by GRS, and to gain a new metabolomic understanding of the effects of Kampo medicine.MethodsMale Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: a control group that was fed a standard diet, and a GRS group that was fed a 1% GRS diet. The study was conducted over a four‐week period. At the end of the experiment, urine samples were analyzed using 1H‐NMR spectroscopy to evaluate the metabolic changes induced by GRS administration. Additionally, various blood parameters were also analyzed.ResultsAdministration of GRS resulted in an elevation of lactate, acetate, and other metabolites, such as trimethylamine‐N‐oxide and hippurate, in urine. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level in the blood of the GRS‐treated group.ConclusionThis study has highlighted the substantial changes in lactate, acetate, and other urine metabolites caused by GRS. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of 1H‐NMR spectroscopy in assessing metabolic alterations in response to the therapeutic application of a Kampo formula. This research contributes to the knowledge of mechanisms of action from a metabolomic point of view and offers fresh insights into the effects of complex Kampo formulas such as GRS, using 1H‐NMR spectroscopic techniques.