BACKGROUND: Through observing the changes of indexes of the intestinal mucosal barrier and intestinal flora in rats, we explored the mechanism by which Hetiao Jianpi Decoction (HTJPD) treats antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) by repairing intestinal mucosal injury and regulating intestinal flora.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Samples of colon tissues were collected for HE staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess levels of diamine oxidase (DAO) and D-lactic acid in rat plasma and the expression of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in colon tissue. We assessed the abundance of intestinal contents by high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene.

RESULTS: Compared with the Model group, the muscle layer and intestinal mucosal edema were improved, and the continuity was restored; the levels of DAO and D-lactic acid in plasma decreased, and the SIgA level were increased in the HTJPD group. The structure of the intestinal flora changed, as indicated by increased levels of certain beneficial bacteria (Verrucomicrobia, Actinobacteria, CF231, and Akkermansia), decreased levels of pathogenic bacteria (Spirochaetes and Treponema), and increased species diversity.

CONCLUSIONS: By improving the permeability and immune function of the intestinal mucosa, Hetiao Jianpi decoction prevented the occurrence of AAD by repairing the intestinal mucosal damage and regulating the structure and diversity of intestinal flora.

Keywords: diarrhea, Intestinal Mucosa, Administration, Oral, Anti-Bacterial Agents, Colon, DNA, Bacterial, Drugs, Chinese Herbal, Permeability, Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms