Laxative effect of repeated Daiokanzoto is attributable to decrease in aquaporin-3 expression in the colon

In this study, we analyzed the laxative effect of repeated DKT administration, focusing on AQP3 expression in the colon. After rats were treated for 7  days, decreased AQP3 expression and the onset of diarrhea were observed in the DKT group, but were not seen in the Daio group either. Although the relative abundance of gut microbiota after repeated DKT administration was similar to that after control treatment, Daio reducedLactobacillaceae,Bifidobacteriaceae, andBacteroidaceae levels and markedly increasedLachnospiraceae levels. In this study, we show that DKT has a sustained laxative effect, even upon repeated use, probably because it maintains decreased AQP3 expression and gut microbiota homeostasis. This outcome therefore indicates that DKT can be used as a long-term treatment for chronic constipation.
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research