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Murine Colitis Modeling using Dextran Sulfate Sodium DSS
Published on: January 19, 2010
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Behavioral abnormalities in C57BL/6 mice with chronic ulcerative colitis induced by DSS.
Yuxin Zhou1, Gang Ji1, Xiaoyi Yang1
1School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang, 330013, PR China.
BMC Gastroenterology
|March 24, 2023
Summary
Acute models of ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice show behavioral changes, but not mental disorders. Chronic UC models, however, significantly impact mouse behavior and induce mental disorders, suggesting a link between chronic inflammation and psychological effects.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Clinical studies link ulcerative colitis (UC) to mental disorders.
- Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS)-induced models are standard for UC drug efficacy testing.
- The behavioral impact of DSS on animal models remains largely uninvestigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the behavioral and psychological effects of acute and chronic DSS-induced ulcerative colitis models in mice.
- To differentiate between UC-symptom-driven behavior and true mental disorders in these models.
Main Methods:
- Acute (3% DSS) and chronic (1.5% DSS) UC models were established in mice.
- Model validation included monitoring stool consistency, colon length, and colonic histopathology.
- Behavioral assessments utilized open field, tail suspension, and sucrose preference tests.
Main Results:
- Acute DSS model: significant weight loss, increased DAI, shortened colon, and abnormal crypt structures.
- Acute DSS model: reduced locomotion and grooming, but no changes in immobility or hippocampal histology.
- Chronic DSS model: exhibited both UC symptoms and significant behavioral abnormalities, indicative of mental disorders.
Conclusions:
- Acute DSS-induced UC in mice causes behavioral changes linked to physical symptoms, not mental disorders.
- Chronic DSS-induced UC significantly affects mouse behavior and induces mental disorders, highlighting a connection between sustained inflammation and psychological health.
