Matrine, an alkaline polysaccharide, is the main bioactive component of Sophora flavescens and has been shown to possess pharmacological activities. In our previous research, we found that matrine exerted significant antibacterial activity in vitro and enhanced the efficacy of antibiotics and mitigated bacterial resistance. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which matrine influences intestinal health are not well understood. Thus, we explored how matrine influences the intestinal well-being of yellow-feathered chickens and the mechanisms involved. Our current findings reveal that matrine supplementation can boost goblet cell quantity in the intestine, enhance intestinal barrier function, and strengthen immune response. Furthermore, we found that matrine treatment modulated the abundance of specific intestinal bacteria. Transcriptomic profiles further confirmed that dietary matrine altered the gene expression profile. Examining the DEGs revealed unique signaling pathways involved in regulating immune responses, lipid metabolism, and neural conduction. Adding matrine to the diet can improve the intestinal mucosal barrier integrity and strengthen immune function.

To Cite This Article: Wu H, Liu J and Hao H, 2025. Matrine enhances the intestinal barrier and regulates gut microbiota in chickens. Pak Vet J. http://dx.doi.org/10.29261/pakvetj/2025.310