Lychee Pulp-Derived Dietary Fiber-Bound Phenolic Complex Upregulates the SCFAs-GPRs-ENS Pathway and Aquaporins in Loperamide-Induced Constipated Mice by Reshaping Gut Microbiome

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the lychee pulp-derived dietary fiber-bound phenolic complex (DF-BPC) on a murine model of loperamide-induced constipation and its molecular mechanism associated with gut microbiota modification. DF-BPC supplementation mitigated loperamide-induced dyschezia, intestinal hypomotility, and colonic impairment, as evidenced by the increased gastro-intestinal transit rate and mucus cell counts. By comparison, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) contents and relative abundances of associated genera (Butyricimonas, Clostridium, and Lactobacillus) were effectively upregulated following DF-BPC supplementation. Notably, DF-BPC significantly enhanced expressions of G protein-coupled receptor (GPR) 41 and 43, reaching 1.43-and 1.62-fold increase, respectively. Neurotransmitter secretions were simultaneously altered in DF-BPCtreated mice, suggesting upregulation of the SCFAs-GPRs-enteric nervous system pathway. The overexpression of aquaporins (AQP3, 8, and 9) was stimulated partly through GPRs activation. Mild inflammation associated with constipation was inhibited by suppressing LBP-TLR4-NF-κB signaling translocation. These findings suggest that DF-BPC from lychee pulp has the potential to alleviate constipation in mice through modifying the gut microbiome.

Integrated metabolic profiles and microbial communities to reveal the beneficial effect of red pitaya on early constipation

“…Foods such as bananas, passionflowers, aloe and Sargassum fusiforme are widely recognized for their laxative properties, and there have been lots of studies investigating their laxative effects. 26 For example, the insoluble dietary fiber found in foods such as bananas acts as a mechanical stimulus that facilitates bowel movements, thereby moistening the intestines and promoting defecation. 27 Aloe relieves constipation through dehydration-stimulating diarrhoea factors, such as anthraquinonoid compounds.…”