Hexadecanamide alleviates experimental colitis in mice and modifies the gut microbiome

Hexadecanamide (HEX) has been recognized for its significant anti-inflammatory properties. However, its specific role and underlying mechanisms in the context of colitis remain poorly understood.

Herein, we first determined the effect of oral HEX on DSS-induced colitis in mice. Our results showed that HEX alleviated DSS-induced colitis in mice, which was related to the improvement of intestinal barrier integrity and the reduction of colonic inflammatory responses. Interestingly, HEX suppressed the initiation of DSS-induced ferroptosis. In detail, HEX inhibited autophagy and ferritinophagy, which subsequently blocked lipid peroxidation. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that HEX intervention regulated the gut microbial composition, characterized by an increased relative abundance of Actinobacteriota and Patescibacteria and a decreased the relative abundance of Firmicutes. To validate these findings, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was performed in DSS-treated mice. The microbiota derived from HEX-treated mice exhibited greater efficacy in alleviating colitis compared to that from control-treated mice, as evidenced by prominent anti-inflammatory effects and colonic barrier repair, and consistent alterations in the gut microbial community, which were further confirmed by FMT.

Overall, our findings suggest that HEX markedly ameliorates DSS-induced colitis by limiting inflammation, improving barrier integrity and regulating gut microbial composition. These results highlight the critical role of HEX in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and suggest its potential as a novel preventive and therapeutic strategy.