Work

Fufang Taizishen Granules Attenuate Chemotherapy‐Induced Intestinal Mucositis by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Amino Acid Metabolism

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis is a severe adverse effect affecting cancer patients, and there are currently no effective strategies for its prevention. Fufang Taizishen granules (FFTZS), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-fatigue, and immunostimulatory properties, have shown therapeutic potential. However, the effects of FFTZS on chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis and its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. A mouse model of intestinal mucositis was induced using 5-FU and irinotecan to assess the protective effects of FFTZS. The study found that FFTZS enhanced food intake, reduced diarrhea index, and improved histopathological damage in colonic tissues. FFTZS also reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and inhibited apoptosis. Moreover, FFTZS treatment increased the expression of Claudin-1 and ZO-1 proteins. Microbial analysis revealed an enrichment of beneficial bacteria and a reduction of opportunistic pathogens, whereas metabolomic analysis showed that FFTZS corrected amino acid metabolic disturbances induced by chemotherapy. These findings suggest that FFTZS mitigates chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis by preserving mucosal integrity, modulating gut microbiota, and restoring metabolic homeostasis.

Source: Food Science & Nutrition

DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.70789