Glycine tabacina extract alleviates inflammatory bowel disease via NF-κB, JNK and Nrf2 signaling pathways

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic inflammatory disorders of the colon, often triggered by unhealthy diets, infections, and dysregulated immune responses. Current treatments for IBD are limited by relapse, drug resistance, side effects, and high costs. Glycine tabacina (Labill.) Benth, a legume native to southeastern China, has traditionally been used for its medicinal properties in treating rheumatoid arthritis, nephritis, and osteoporosis. However, its effects on IBD remain unexplored.

This study aimed to investigate the anti-colitis effects and underlying mechanisms of Glycine tabacina ethanol extract (GTE) using in vitro and in vivo models.

The chemical components of GTE were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The effects of GTE on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed in Caco-2 cells. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice was used to evaluate GTE's therapeutic potential. ELISA, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, and immunoblotting were performed to measure gene expression and signaling pathway activity. Histological analysis of colon tissues was conducted using H&E staining.

GTE significantly reduced LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells and alleviated DSS-induced colitis in mice. Mechanistically, GTE decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and reactive oxygen species (ROS), while improving intestinal barrier integrity. Furthermore, GTE suppressed the NF-κB and MAPK/JNK pathways while activating the Nrf2 pathway. These results suggest that GTE may serve as a promising therapeutic agent for IBD by modulating key inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of GTE mitigated intestinal epithelial cell damage by preserving tight junction proteins and maintaining intestinal barrier integrity. Given its high efficacy and favorable safety profile, GTE represents a promising therapeutic candidate for managing chronic and refractory inflammatory disorders such as IBD.