RESUMO
Objective To investigate the interaction between Coptidis Rhizoma extracts and intestinal bacteria. Methods The metabolites of Coptidis Rhizoma extracts by human gut microbiota were identified by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. Furthermore, the effects of Coptidis Rhizoma extracts on the growth of Bifiobactderia, Lactobacilli, Enterobacter, and Enterococcus were evaluated by the colorimetric method. Results Alkaloids in Coptidis Rhizoma were mainly degraded by reduction and demethoxy, among which berberine and coptisine were converted to reductive products and palmatine was metabolized to a demethoxyl product. Additionally, pathogens such as Enterobacter and Enterococcus were obviously inhibited and probiotics such as Lactobacilli and Bifiobactderia were notably promoted by Coptidis Rhizoma extracts. Conclusion Gut microflora can metabolize alkaloids from Coptidis Rhizoma by multiple ways, and Coptidis Rhizoma extracts can improve the intestinal microecology.