Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Jiawei Huangqi Guizhi decoction on chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) in rats and its modulation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/ mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 2 (PI3K/Akt/ mTORC2) signaling pathway. METHODS: CAG was induced in rats and treated with high-, medium-, or low-dose Jiawei Huangqi Guizhi decoction. Gastric histopathology was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Serum levels of gastrin, PI3K, Akt, and mTORC2 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Gene and protein expression levels were analyzed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot. RESULTS: The decoction alleviated gastric mucosal injury, reduced inflammation, and restored epithelial structure. It regulated PI3K, Akt, and mTORC2 expression at both mRNA and protein levels. CONCLUSION: Jiawei Huangqi Guizhi decoction may prevent CAG progression by improving gastric tissue and modulating the PI3K/Akt/mTORC2 signaling pathway.