Research progress on fecal microbiota transplantation intervening intestinal mucosal barrier for treatment of ulcerative colitis based on the "Houchang Theory"

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized primarily by impaired intestinal mucosal barrier function. Beneficial bacteria in the intestinal flora are crucial for maintaining intestinal function. Therefore, eliminating harmful bacteria, promoting the regeneration of beneficial bacteria, and reconstructing the intestinal mucosal barrier have become key strategies in the treatment of UC. The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) "Houchang Theory" elucidates the mechanism of ulcer formation from the perspective of the "Zhimo" (lipid membrane) structure and achieves the purpose of treating UC by thickening the "Zhimo" through syndrome differentiation and treatment. This theory is consistent with the modern medical concept of reconstructing the intestinal mucosal barrier. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), as a transformed product of TCM "Jinzhi" (liquid feces), has been proven to have significant efficacy in the treatment of UC. Based on the TCM "Houchang Theory" and from the perspective of the intestinal mucosal barrier, this article explored the mechanism of "Jinzhi" FMT in the treatment of UC and provides new strategies for clinical treatment.