Watercress Extract Reduces Experimental Colitis by Modulating Inflammation and Regulating the Gut Microbiota

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Immunology
• Gastroenterology
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Watercress (Nasturtium officinale), rich in phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.
• Its therapeutic potential for colitis, a significant inflammatory bowel disease, remains underexplored.
• This study investigates watercress extract's efficacy in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental colitis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of watercress extract supplementation on DSS-induced colitis in mice.
• To assess impacts on colonic histopathology, immune responses, barrier integrity, and gut microbiota.
• To examine the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of PEITC.

Main Methods:

• Mice were fed standard or watercress-supplemented diets before DSS administration.
• Evaluated colonic injury, immune cell infiltration, inflammatory markers, and barrier function.
• Analyzed gut microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing; assessed PEITC in LPS-stimulated macrophages.

Main Results:

• Watercress extract attenuated DSS-induced colon shortening and histopathological damage.
• Supplementation reduced colonic inflammation, preserved intestinal barrier integrity, and modulated gut microbiota (e.g., increased Monoglobus, decreased Enterococcus).
• PEITC suppressed LPS-induced nitric oxide production and inflammatory mediator expression in macrophages.

Conclusions:

• Watercress extract effectively alleviates experimental colitis by reducing mucosal inflammation and enhancing barrier function.
• The extract modulates gut microbiota composition, contributing to its therapeutic effects.
• Watercress presents a promising dietary intervention for improving gut health and mitigating intestinal inflammation.