[Untargeted metabolomics reveals therapeutic mechanism of Fuzi Lizhong Pills on oxazolone-induced ulcerative colitis in mice].

The mouse model of acute ulcerative colitis(UC) was established by skin sensitization via oxazolone(OXZ) combined with rectal enema. Successfully modeled mice were treated with Fuzi Lizhong Pills(FLP) for 7 consecutive days. The therapeutic effects were comprehensively evaluated. Untargeted metabolomics was employed to analyze fecal metabolic profiles, thereby elucidating the therapeutic mechanism of FLP for UC. The results showed that FLP significantly ameliorated the weight loss, diarrhea, and hematochezia in the mouse model of UC. Compared with the model group, the administration with FLP significantly reduced the DAI score, restored the colon length, repaired the pathological damage of the colon tissue, and reduced mucosal hyperemia, edema, and inflammatory cell infiltration. In terms of immune regulation, FLP significantly downregulated the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α and interferon(IFN)-γ in the colon tissue and regulated spleen and thymus indices to restore the functional balance of immune organs. Untargeted metabolomics analysis of mouse feces indicated that FLP restored the levels of 126 differential metabolites, which were mainly involved in nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, propanoate metabolism, and phenylalanine metabolism pathways. In conclusion, FLP exhibits significant therapeutic effects on OXZ-induced UC in mice by regulating immune-inflammatory responses and correcting metabolic disorders.