Role of Sishen pill in treating inflammatory bowel diseases through regulating the metabolism of memory Treg cells: An exploration based on the theory of benefiting source of fire and eliminating yin

The incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) is increasing yearly and treatment options remain limited. Sishen Pill (SSP), a Chinese medicine, may aid IBD by impacting energy metabolism and immune response in memory Treg cells, though its exact mechanism remains unclear. This study was designed to investigate the SSP’s mechanism in IBD treatment via regulating memory T cells based on the theory of Benefiting Source of Fire and Eliminating Yin. A spleen-kidney yang deficiency model was induced in mice using rhubarb decoction and hydrocortisone, followed by a DSS-induced IBD model. Mice were treated with SSP at varying doses. Disease activity index (DAI) scores, colonic weight index and histological injury scores were measured. Flow cytometry quantified T cell subsets and ELISA tests assessed TNF-?, IL-17 and energy metabolites (ATP, ADP and AMP). The establishment of an ulcerative colitis mouse model with spleen-kidney yang deficiency was conducted. As opposed to controls, DSS increased TEM (CCR7-CD45RA-) and Foxp3+ T-cell ratios and reduced TCM (CCR7+CD45RA-) (P<0.05). SSP dose-dependently improved colitis indicators, decreased TNF-?, IL-17 and enhanced energy metabolism by modulating ATP, ADP and AMP levels (P<0.05). SSP may alleviate DSS-induced IBDs by regulating memory T cell metabolism and energy metabolism.