Liupao tea attenuates ulcerative colitis through modulation of inflammation and intestinal barrier function

This study investigates the protective effects of Liupao Tea (LPT) in ulcerative colitis (UC). Using network pharmacology and molecular docking, potential therapeutic targets of LPT were identified, focusing on inflammation and intestinal barrier function. In a mouse model of UC, LPT alleviated disease symptoms, including body weight loss and inflammation, and improved colonic histology. It also suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhanced the expression of tight junction proteins, indicating restoration of the intestinal barrier. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the modulation of immune, inflammatory, and metabolic pathways, particularly the AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK) and inflammatory bowel disease signaling pathways. These results suggest that LPT mitigates colonic inflammation and strengthens the intestinal barrier, supporting its potential as a functional food for promoting intestinal health. • Liupao Tea (LPT) alleviates DSS-induced colitis symptoms and colonic inflammation in mice. • LPT improves intestinal barrier function by enhancing tight junction proteins and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. • Network pharmacology reveals key targets involved in LPT's anti-inflammatory effects. • Transcriptomics revealed enrichment in immunomodulatory and inflammatory bowel disease signaling.