| Objective To observe the therapeutic effect of Shengu granules on osteoporosis rats from the changes in intestinal flora, and to clarify its mechanism of action. Methods Thirty-six SD rats were randomly divided into three groups, each consisting of 12 animals. In the sham operation group, an equivalent amount of fat was removed while preserving the ovarian location. In both the model group and the Shengu granule group, bilateral ovariectomy was performed. The Rats in Shengu granule group received Shengu granule solution (12g/kg) by gavage. Rats in the other two groups received an equal dose of water. All the treatment lasted for a total duration of 12 weeks. Specific NTX-I, BGP, and BALP levels were measured with ELISA. Bone microstructure was assessed using micro-CT. Pathological changes in the colon location were determined with HE staining. The gut microbiota status was assessed with 16SrRNA analysis. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in feces were measured with UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Wnt10b and β-catenin were assessed with Western blotting. Results Compared with the sham operation group, the model group showed a significant decrease in bone mineral density and sparse bone microstructure. The serum NTX-I level increased, while BALP and BGP decreased. Significant colitis, severe ulcers, impaired intestinal flora, reduced SCFAs, and decreased levels of Wnt10b, etc. were observed. Compared with the model group, the Shengu granule granule group showed a significant increase in bone mineral density and substantial improvement in bone microstructure. The serum NTX-I level decreased, while BALP and BGP increased. Colon damage and inflammation reduced. Gut recovery was noted with increased SCFAs and an upregulation of Wnt10b, etc. Conclusion Shengu granules relieve osteoporosis by repairing the imbalance of intestinal flora and activating wnt/β-catenin osteogenic pathway proteins mediated by short-chain fatty acid. |