Objective: To investigate the mechanism of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma on intestinal flora of septic rats. Method: LPS intraperitoneal injections were used to establish septic rats models. The rats in the experiment were divided into five groups:sham operation group

septic model group

Rhei Radix et Rhizoma high dose

middle dose and low dose groups (150

100

50 mg·kg-1)

2 times/d ig

continuous for 3 days. The mortality of each group was recorded. Traditional bacterial culture method was used to detect bacteria count of membrane flora

cavity flora

mesenteric lymph nodes and blood of the rats. Meanwhile aquaporin 2(AQP2) and AQP8 were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot. Result: The mortality in Rhei Radix et Rhizoma high dose group and middle dose group was significantly decreased. Membrane flora and cavity flora of all groups differ greatly

especially Escherichia coli

Staphylococcus aureus

Lactobacill and Bifidobacterium. AQP2 and AQP8 expression levels of all treated groups differed greatly from those of model group(P<0.05). The decrease in AQP2 and AQP8 expression levels in various treatment groups was dependent on the dose of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma. meanwhile

the number of pathogens in lymph nodes and blood was lower than that of model group. Conclusion: Rhei Radix et Rhizoma can decrease bacterial translocation by reducing expression of AQPs to increase excreta in treating sepsis

and the middle dose is better for the balance of intestinal flora.