Microbiomic and Metabolomic Analyses Unveil the Protective Effect of Saffron in a Mouse Colitis Model

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

In this study, the authors explored the microbiome and metabolomic analyses to unveil the protective effect of saffron in a mouse colitis model. Overall, this study is exciting, and the data provided by the authors are solid. However, some minor concerns need to be addressed by the authors before publication. 

1:Minor editing of the English language and word usage needs to be improved.

2: The mechanism of saffron therapeutic potential is still unclear. Can the authors provide some information on this point? It will significantly improve the manuscript.

Minor editing of the English language needs to be improved

Author Response

Thanks to the reviewers’ comments, the relevant references already listed in the manuscript. However, we have provided some background references for the reviewers as below.

Based on previous studies and our laboratory finding, Saffron has been shown promise in various therapeutic applications. Although the precise underlying mechanism of saffron's effects is not yet fully understood, However, several potential mechanisms associated with saffron's therapeutic effects have been proposed like:

Saffron has antioxidant Activity: Saffron contains active compounds, such as crocin and crocetin, which possess antioxidant properties (PMID: 33356506, PMID: 25829569, PMID: 33356506). These compounds can scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage and inflammation (PMID: 25829569, PMID: 35095483).

Saffron has anti-inflammatory effects: Saffron has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and prostaglandins (PMID: 35276955, PMID: 30391705). This modulation of the immune response can contribute to its therapeutic potential in conditions characterized by inflammation (PMID: 31223464, PMID: 30391705, PMID: 34007917).

Saffron has neuroprotective Actions: Saffron has been investigated for its neuroprotective effects, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases (PMID: 33117172, PMID: 31997799, PMID: 33117172). It may help in preventing neuronal damage through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, promoting cell survival, and enhancing neuroplasticity (PMID: 31443568, PMID: 37107295, PMID: 35104696).

Saffron is involved in the modulation of Neurotransmitters: Saffron compounds have been reported to influence neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate (PMID: 26950102, PMID: 33598475, PMID: 26950102). These effects on neurotransmission may contribute to its potential in mood disorders and cognitive function (PMID: 26468457, PMID: 33117172, PMID: 36558528).

Saffron is involved in Epigenetics: Emerging evidence suggests that saffron may have epigenetic effects, meaning it could potentially influence gene expression patterns without altering the underlying DNA sequence (PMID: 25384672, PMID: 36558528, PMID: 33117172, PMID: 36014823, PMID: 36014823). These epigenetic changes might be involved in saffron's therapeutic actions, although the specific mechanisms are not yet well understood.

It is important to note that while these mechanisms have been proposed based on experimental studies and some clinical observations, the precise ways in which saffron exerts its therapeutic effects are still being investigated. Further research is necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms and to validate the therapeutic potential of saffron in different contexts.

Reviewer 2 Report

The text bellow contains comments on manuscript entitled “Microbiome and metabolomic analyses unveil the protective effect of saffron in a mouse colitis model”

The manuscript is focused to reveal the effects of saffron on the gut microbiome in experimental mice model and its possible mechanisms for its protective capabilities through better understanding the effects on microbial and metabolic profiles associated with intestinal inflammation.

To my opinion the manuscript needs minor revision and my comments are listed below:

Plant names should be written in italic form.

Page 2, Line 57: A reference is missing at the end of the text.

I would propose the authors go once again through the text and correct all technical inconsistencies.

Minor editing of English language required

Author Response

Thanks for the reviewers' comments.

The plant name is in italics. We added the reference on page line 57.

We have reviewed the manuscript and corrected minor concerns.