Modulation of gut microbiota and intestinal barrier by lotus seed, jujube, and longan aril in senna leaf-induced diarrhea in mice

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Objective This study aimed to investigate the regulatory effects of lotus seed, jujube, and longan aril on the gut microbiota structure and barrier function in a senna leaf-induced diarrhea mouse model. Methods Diarrhea was induced in ICR mice using senna leaf extract. Mice received aqueous extracts of lotus seed, jujube, or longan aril for treatment. Intestinal motility was assessed through fecal consistency scoring and the charcoal propulsion test. Colon tissues were collected for histopathological examination using H&E staining, as well as immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses of aquaporin 3 (AQP3) and sodium-hydrogen exchanger 8 (NHE8). Gut microbiota composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing. Results All three herbal interventions significantly reduced the loose stool rate and diarrhea index ( p < 0.05), inhibiting small intestinal hypermotility. Histological analysis revealed an increase in goblet cell numbers and improved crypt architecture in the colon. Immunohistochemical evaluation indicated downregulation of AQP3 and upregulation of NHE8 expression, which was confirmed by Western blot analysis. 16S rRNA sequencing demonstrated that all treatments restored α -diversity (Shannon index, p < 0.05). β -diversity analysis revealed that longan aril induced a more extensive reshaping of gut microbial community structure compared to lotus seed and jujube, which exhibited a “phased” restoration. The relative abundance of potential pathogens (e.g., Akkermansia muciniphila , Citrobacter spp.) significantly decreased, while beneficial short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria (e.g., Blautia coccoides , Faecalibaculum rodentium , Alloprevotella rava ) were enriched. Unique protective taxa, such as nitrogen-fixing Azospirillum and antioxidant Deinococcus , emerged in specific treatment groups. Conclusion Lotus seed, jujube, and longan aril synergistically alleviated diarrhea via multiple pathways, including modulation of gut microbiota structure, repair of barrier function, balance of water-electrolyte metabolism, and inhibition of intestinal hypermotility. This study provides a scientific foundation for the clinical application of medicinal and edible homology substances, as well as the development of microecological agents.

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