Paeonol alleviates ulcerative colitis by modulating PPAR-γ and nuclear factor-κB activation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal disease.
• Paeonol exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but its mechanism in UC is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of paeonol in treating ulcerative colitis.
• To investigate paeonol's effects on the NF-κB signaling pathway and PPARγ expression.

Main Methods:

• In vitro studies using NCM460 and RAW264.7 cells.
• In vivo studies utilizing a DSS-induced mice colitis model.
• Assessment of NF-κB activation, PPARγ expression, cytokine levels, reactive oxygen species, and macrophage polarization.

Main Results:

• Paeonol inhibited NF-κB activation by upregulating PPARγ expression in vitro.
• Paeonol reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and promoted M2 macrophage polarization.
• In vivo, paeonol treatment increased PPARγ expression, reduced inflammation, apoptosis, and preserved intestinal barrier integrity in UC mice.

Conclusions:

• Paeonol ameliorates DSS-induced colitis by activating PPARγ and inhibiting the NF-κB pathway.
• Paeonol exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improving intestinal barrier function.
• This study offers novel insights into paeonol's therapeutic mechanisms for ulcerative colitis.