Purpose: To study small intestinal absorption of schisadrol A, schisandrol B, schizandrin A and
schisandrin B in JingNing particles using in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion (SPIP).
Methods: Absorption rate constant (Ka) and apparent permeability (Papp) of the drugs at different
concentrations in various parts of rat small intestine (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) were determined
using SPIP. JingNing particles were also perfused in situ at different pH in the entire rat intestine.
Ethanol extract of Schisandra chinensis (standard) at low concentration was perfused in the duodenum
for comparison with extract of JingNing particles.
Results: The order of apparent permeability of the four lignans was schisandrol A < schisandrol B <
schizandrin A < schisandrin B. Ka and Papp values of the four lignans in JingNing particles were
concentration-dependent. Absorption increased in the rank order: ileum > duodenum > jejunum.
Optimum absorption pH was 6.50.
Polygala tenuifolia
extract and volatile oil of Rhizoma acori tatarinowii
significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the absorption of the four lignans.
Conclusion: The four lignans were well absorbed in the intestinal tract, particularly the ileum, probably
through carrier-mediated transport. The alcohol extract of Polygala tenuifolia and volatile oil of Rhizoma
acori graminei enhanced the absorption of the four lignans.
