Colitis-Mediated Dysbiosis of the Intestinal Flora and Impaired Vitamin A Absorption Reduce Ovarian Function in Mice

Ze Li, Chengzhen Chen, Wenjie Yu, Lingxia Xu, Haitao Jia, Chen Wang, Na Pei, Zibin Liu, Dan Luo, Jun Wang, Wenfa Lv, Bao Yuan, Jiabao Zhang, Hao Jiang
Nutrients · 2023 · vol. 15(11) , pp. 2425 · doi:10.3390/nu15112425 · PMID:37299390 · W4378085691
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Dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in mice led to intestinal dysbiosis, decreased vitamin A metabolism, and impaired ovarian function, evidenced by reduced hormone levels and oocyte quality.

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Abstract

Changes in the composition and ratio of the flora during colitis have been found to potentially affect ovarian function through nutrient absorption. However, the mechanisms have not been fully explored. To investigate whether colitis-induced dysbacteriosis of the intestinal flora affects ovarian function, mice were given dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) through drinking water. High-throughput sequencing technology was used to clarify the composition and proportion of bacterial flora as well as gene expression changes in the colon. Changes in follicle type, number, and hormone secretion in the ovary were detected. The results showed that 2.5% DSS could induce severe colitis symptoms, including increased inflammatory cell infiltration, severe damage to the crypt, and high expression of inflammatory factors. Moreover, vitamin A synthesis metabolism-related genes Rdh10, Aldh1a1, Cyp26a1, Cyp26b1, and Rarβ were significantly decreased, as well as the levels of the steroid hormone synthase-related proteins STAR and CYP11A1. The levels of estradiol, progesterone, and Anti-Mullerian hormone as well as the quality of oocytes decreased significantly. The significantly changed abundances of Alistipes, Helicobacter, Bacteroides, and some other flora had potentially important roles. DSS-induced colitis and impaired vitamin A absorption reduced ovarian function.

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[{'doi': None, 'name': 'National Natural Science Foundation of China', 'awards': ['U20A2053']}]

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