Mechanism of Action of Sijunzi Decoction in Modulating the Th17/Treg Balance and Intestinal Microenvironment for Asthma Alleviation
The interplay between Th17/Treg balance, gut microbiota, and asthma pathogenesis is well-recognized. Sijunzi Decoction, a traditional Chinese medicinal formula known for its efficacy in enhancing qi and fortifying the spleen, is frequently utilized to treat allergic conditions such as asthma and rhinitis by modulating gut microbiota and improving immunity. In this study, based on asthma and Asthma-ABX models, changes in Th17/Treg immune balance indicators, TLR expression, and gut microbiota were analyzed to elucidate the mechanisms by which Sijunzi Decoction regulated gut microbiota, influenced Th17/Treg balance, and mitigated asthma progression. Our findings demonstrate that Sijunzi Decoction improves the overall conditions and pathological manifestations of asthma and Asthma-ABX mice. It enhances gut microbiota diversity, increases the abundance of beneficial bacteria, reduces opportunistic pathogen prevalence, and elevates intestinal SIgA levels. Furthermore, it promotes TLR-mediated signaling, facilitates Treg differentiation and maturation, suppresses Th17 activity, restores Th17/Treg balance, and alleviates asthma progression.