The Effect of Humulus japonicus Extract (HJE) on the Gastrointestinal Motility in Rat Model of Postoperative Ileus (POI)

This study investigated whether Humulus japonicus extract (HJE) improves postoperative ileus-induced inflammation and contributes to the recovery of gastrointestinal motility. Postoperative ileus (POI) was induced by externalizing the intestine after laparotomy, covering the entire intestine with moist cotton, manipulating the organ, and suturing. The motor ability of the gastrointestinal tract was assessed by measuring the gastric emptying rate and mean geometric center. Terminal intestine tissues were analyzed to measure levels of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β, and oxidative stress factors such as SOD, GSH, and MDA. Postoperative ileus caused gastrointestinal dysmotility, inflammation, and increased oxidative stress in rats. Administration of H. japonicus extract significantly increased the gastric emptying rate in the stomach and mean geometric center values in the intestine. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays revealed that treatment with H. japonicus extract reduced TNF-α and IL-1β levels in the postoperative ileus-induced group. H. japonicus extract relieved oxidative stress by decreasing MDA and increasing SOD activity and GSH. Therefore, H. japonicus extract may improve gastrointestinal motility by inhibiting inflammatory levels and oxidative effects in POI rat model.