Abstract:

In order to study the role and mechanism of soluble dietary fiber in alleviating constipation, this study utilized 16S rRNA sequencing, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunoblotting methods in a mouse model of constipation. From various aspects of intestinal microecology, such as the distribution of the gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acid metabolites, and the intestinal epithelial barrier, this study explored the role and molecular mechanism of soluble dietary fiber in alleviating constipation in mice. The alleviating effect of soluble dietary fiber on constipation was further confirmed in human trials. This study found that soluble dietary fiber significantly alleviated the symptoms of constipation in mice and humans. The mechanisms of action are as follows: increasing the number of probiotics such as Parabacteroides and Ligilactobacillus in the intestinal tract of mice; promoting the production of short-chain fatty acids such as acetic acid; and significantly improving the expression of genes encoding the production of intestinal tight junction proteins, along with proteins themselves, which are involved in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier. The results indicate that soluble dietary fiber has good alleviating effects on constipation in mice and humans, which is achieved through the production of short-chain fatty acids, the improvement of the gut microbiota, and the enhancement of the intestinal barrier. This study further confirms the value of soluble dietary fiber for application in constipated populations, providing a scientific basis for intestinal research and product development.

Key words: soluble dietary fiber, constipation, gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acids, intestinal tight junction proteins