Toxicity assessment of Cucurbita pepo cv Dayangua and its effects on gut microbiota in mice

Abstract Background Cucurbita pepo cv Dayangua (CPD) is an edible plant with diverse pharmacological properties. The current research on CPD has primarily focused on initial investigations of its chemical composition and pharmacological effects, and no comprehensive toxicity assessment has been conducted to date. Methods In the present study, the toxicity of CPD was evaluated through both acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity tests in mice. 16S rDNA sequencing was used to analyze the composition of the gut microbiota of mice at different time points to observe the effect of CPD on these microbial communities. Results In the acute toxicity test, CPD exhibited low toxicity, with a median lethal dose (LD50) > 2000 mg/kg. The sub-chronic toxicity test indicated that CPD administration at doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg did not cause mortality or significant organ damage in mice. Furthermore, analysis of the gut microbiota after gavage administration of CPD at 400 and 600 mg/kg revealed an improved abundance of some beneficial gut bacteria. Conclusions In summary, no acute or sub-chronic toxic effects were observed in mice following the oral administration of CPD. CPD did not affect the structure and diversity of the gut microbiota and may contribute to an increase in the number of beneficial gut bacteria.