Work

Baicalein alleviates chronic acute stress-induced irritable bowel syndrome-like symptoms in rats via modulating the ODC1/NF-κB pathway and oxidative stress

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As a persistent gastrointestinal disorder, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) influences the gut-brain connection, leading to abdominal pain and altered bowel irregularities. Baicalein, a flavonoid extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis, is frequently utilized in anti-inflammatory treatments. This study aimed to explore baicalein's effectiveness in mitigating IBS symptoms triggered by both chronic and acute stress (CAS) and to uncover its fundamental mechanisms. METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats were employed to develop an IBS rat model by inducing CAS for five weeks. Each rat was randomly allocated to one of four experimental groups: model (M), low-dose baicalein (L), high-dose baicalein (H), and control (C). Baicalein was orally administered throughout the experiment. Behavioral assessments were conducted, including forced swimming, marble-burying, intestinal motility, and visceral sensitivity tests. Colonic tissues were collected for histopathological examination, evaluation of oxidative stress (MDA and SOD levels), and analysis of inflammatory cytokines, and ODC1/NF-κB pathway activation using Western blot assay, ELISA, and immunofluorescence. RESULTS: Baicalein treatment notably ameliorated IBS-like symptoms, such as fecal pellet output and AWR scores, by alleviating stress-induced behavioral changes. Baicalein bolstered antioxidant defenses through boosting SOD activity and lowering MDA levels. Moreover, baicalein inhibited inflammatory responses, targeting IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, while suppressing the expression of ODC1 and restraining NF-κB p65 phosphorylation within the colon. These results indicate that baicalein modulates oxidative stress and inflammation in CAS-associated IBS. CONCLUSION: Baicalein demonstrates protection against CAS-induced IBS by diminishing intestinal inflammation, oxidative damage, and visceral hypersensitivity via suppression of the ODC1/NF-κB pathway. These findings underscore baicalein's potential as a therapeutic approach for IBS.

Source: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2025.152058

Authors: Han Lin, Yunlong Lv, Huacheng Liu, Zheng Lin, Ning Zhu, Bingwu Huang

Institutions: Wenzhou Medical University, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Shanghai University, Wenzhou City People's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Gastrointestinal motility and disorders

Subfield: Gastroenterology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,110