Corni Fructus as a Natural Resource Can Treat Type 2 Diabetes by Regulating Gut Microbiota

Abstract

Accumulating evidence suggests that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the development of metabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The nutrient-rich resource Cornus Fructus (CF) showed curative effects on diabetes mellitus. However, the mechanism underlying its hyperglycemic activity remains obscure. Herein, the antidiabetic potential of four extracts from CF, including saponin (CTS), iridoid glycoside (CIG), tannin (CT), and alcohol extract (CCA) was evaluated in vivo. The results showed that all four extracts could increase the body weight, decrease the blood glucose levels, and elevate the glucose tolerance. Moreover, insulin sensitivity and lipid profile were significantly improved in fed mice. In the [Formula: see text]-diversity index of samples, compared to the DM group, the diversity and richness of gut microbiota in mice to a certain extent were reduced in both CF extracts and Metformin (PC). Among them, there was statistical significance in PC (ACE, [Formula: see text]) and CCA (ACE, [Formula: see text]; chao1: [Formula: see text]). Beta diversity showed the same trend as the UPGMA clustering trees, which revealed that CF extracts could improve intestinal homeostasis in T2DM mice. Also, CF extracts could elevate the production of short-chain fatty acids, as well as regulate the composition of gut microbiota. The key bacteria related to T2DM including Firmicutes, Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Clostridium were modulated by metformin and CF. Altogether, CF is a potential nutrient-rich candidate that can be used in functional foods for the treatment of T2DM, and the change of gut microbiota might be a novel mechanism underlying its hyperglycemic activity.

The Herb Pair Radix Rehmanniae and Cornus Officinalis Attenuated Testicular Damage in Mice With Diabetes Mellitus Through Butyric Acid/Glucagon-Like Peptide-1/Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Pathway Mediated by Gut Microbiota

“… Zhang et al (2021c) demonstrated that the RR-CO combination remarkably increased the abundance and diversity of GM in rats with adenosine-induced chronic kidney disease. CO extract selectively modulated the structure of GM, thereby alleviating T2DM ( Niu et al, 2020 ). Qin-xin-tang increased the SCFA-producing flora in the gut of T2DM rats, thus, up-regulating the secretion of SCFA, increasing intestinal integrity, inhibiting inflammatory response, and improving insulin resistance ( Wei et al, 2018 ).…”

“… Chen et al (2018) reported that the Huang-Lian-Jie-Du-Decoction ameliorated hyperglycemia and restored the dysregulated microbiota structure and function, mainly by increasing short chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria and reducing conditioned pathogenic bacteria in T2DM rats. Extracts of CO have been demonstrated to exhibit curative hypoglycemic effects and selectively modulate GM in T2DM mice ( Niu et al, 2020 ). Zhang et al (2021c) implied that GM and their metabolites might play a vital role in the progression of chronic kidney disease, which was reversed by the treatment with Rehmannia Radix Preparata and CO herb pair.…”

Research progress on the mechanism of TCM regulating intestinal microbiota in the treatment of DM mellitus

“…Niu D et al. ( 100 ) intervened with Cornus officinalis extract in T2DM mice, improving glucose and lipid metabolism disorders and upregulating the secretion of GLP-1 and GLP-2. They also alleviated T2DM symptoms by upregulating the abundance of Gram positive bacteria (Lactobacillus, Clostridium, etc.)…”