Anisomeles indica enriched with ovatodiolide protects against aspirin-induced gastric ulcers through gut microbiota modulation.

BACKGROUND

Gastric ulcers are commonly caused by improper use of aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or Helicobacter pylori infection. Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze, a traditional herbal medicine enriched with ovatodiolide, possesses potent anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and has demonstrated efficacy in improving gastric ulcers in animal models. However, its impact on the gut microbial ecosystem remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of A. indica fractions enriched with ovatodiolide on aspirin-induced gastric ulcers and to investigate their influence on gut microbiota composition.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Aspirin-induced gastric ulcers were established in mice, followed by treatment with various A. indica fractions. The severity of gastric ulceration was assessed using histopathological analysis. Additionally, 16S rRNA V3-V4 sequencing and 16S amplicon library construction were performed to characterize gut microbiota composition.

RESULTS

Our results showed that mice treated with ovatodiolide-enriched A. indica fractions exhibited significant amelioration of gastric ulcers compared to untreated controls. The treatment also enhanced the relative abundance of beneficial gut microbiota, including Lactobacillus and Adlercreutzia. Furthermore, histopathological examination revealed that A. indica treatment significantly upregulated mucin expression in ulcerated gastric tissues, suggesting a protective role in gastric mucosal integrity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insights into the mechanisms by which A. indica alleviates gastric ulcers, highlighting its ability to modulate gut microbiota and enhance mucosal protection.