To explore the mechanism of acupoint application in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea by 16S rDNA sequencing and metabolomics Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This study investigates the mechanisms by which graphene-based warm uterus acupoint paste (GWUAP) can treat primary dysmenorrhea (PD). It explores the effects of GWUAP on uterine tissue, pain severity, and the intestinal microbiota in a PD rat model. By utilizing 16S rDNA sequencing and fecal metabolomics, the study aims to uncover how GWUAP influences the microbiome and related metabolic pathways to reduce dysmenorrhea symptoms. The key aspects explored include the modulation of microbial communities and metabolites that may contribute to the therapeutic effects of GWUAP.
Who was studied?
The study was conducted using sexually mature female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, which were randomly assigned to control, model, and treatment groups. The rats in the model and treatment groups were administered estradiol benzoate combined with oxytocin to induce PD-like symptoms, while the control group was untreated. The treatment group received GWUAP, an acupoint therapy, while the model and control groups did not. Fecal samples from these rats were analyzed for microbial diversity, and serum and uterine tissue were evaluated for inflammatory markers and structural changes. This study provides insights into how GWUAP impacts both microbiome composition and metabolites.
Most important findings
The study found that GWUAP effectively alleviated the symptoms of PD in rats, as evidenced by a significant reduction in the torsion scores, improved uterine tissue pathology, and a decrease in serum levels of inflammatory markers like TNF-α and PGF2α. Additionally, GWUAP treatment restored the balance of the intestinal microbiota by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, and reducing harmful bacteria, like Romboutsia. Metabolomics analysis revealed that GWUAP influenced 32 metabolites related to therapeutic effects, and several metabolic pathways, including steroid hormone biosynthesis, were significantly regulated. This suggests that GWUAP may exert its therapeutic effect by restoring microbial diversity and influencing metabolic pathways related to inflammation and pain.
Key implications
These findings suggest that GWUAP could be a promising alternative therapy for managing primary dysmenorrhea, particularly for those seeking non-pharmacological treatments. By regulating both the gut microbiota and associated metabolites, GWUAP offers a multifaceted approach to treating PD, which could reduce reliance on NSAIDs and other pain relievers. Clinicians may consider incorporating GWUAP into treatment plans for PD, particularly for patients seeking holistic, non-invasive alternatives. Further research is necessary to explore the long-term effects and potential for GWUAP in clinical settings.
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.