Objective To investigate the effect of acupuncture-moxibustion with “Biao-Ben” acupoint combination(BB) on the serum metabolites and metabolic pathway in irritable bowel syndrome(IBS) model rats

so as to explore the mechanisms of BB in the prevention and treatment of IBS. Methods Thirty SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group

model group

and BB group

with 10 rats in each group. The IBS model was established by the combination of acute stress method and chronic stress method

and the success of the model establishment was evaluated by abdominal wall reflex(AWR). BB group received acupuncture-moxibustion treatment at “Neiguan”(PC6)

“Zusanli”(ST36)

and “Guanyuan”(CV4) for 15 min

once a day

for a total of 28 days. Bristol's fecal character score was evaluated

and intestinal propulsion rate was calculated. The open-field experiment was used to observe the behaviour of rats. Pathological changes in the colon were observed by H.E. staining. TM widely targeted metabolomics technology was used to detect the metabolic profile of serum samples from 3 groups of rats. Principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least-squares discrimination analysis techniques were combined with database screening to screen differential metabolites

and the KEGG database was utilized to map the enriched metabolic pathway. Results Compared with the control group

AWR

and the total distance

speed

duration traveled autonomously

the distance of central grid traveling

the number of central grid crossings of the open-field experiment were significantly decreased(P<0.01

P<0.05)

while Bristol's fecal character score

intestinal propulsion rate and rest duration in the open-field experiment were significantly increased(P<0.01) in the model group. Compared with the model group

Bristol's fecal character score

the intestinal propulsion rate

rest duration

and rest episode were significantly decreased(P<0.01

P<0.05)

while AWR

the total distance

speed

duration traveled autonomously

the distance of central grid traveling

the number of central grid crossings

and the residence time of the central grid were significantly increased(P<0.01

P<0.05) in the BB group. H.E. staining showed a discontinuous mucosal layer of colon tissue

a slightly disordered arrangement of glands

and more inflammatory cell infiltration in the submucosa and muscle layer in the model group

which was relatively milder in the BB group. After comparing the model and control group

123 differential metabolites were screened

while 57 were screened after comparing the model and BB group. Six differential metabolic pathways were acquired when comparing the model and the control group

while 8 were acquired when comparing the model and BB group using KEGG enrichment analysis

both of which included the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway. Conclusion “Biao-Ben” acupoint combination can improve symptoms of IBS by regulating metabolites of the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway

which may be a potential target for the treatment of IBS.