Protective effects of Antarctic krill oil in dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis mice

Abstract

Antarctic krill oil (KO) is a popular new marine-derived food supplement. In this study, the protective effects of KO treatment were investigated in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) mice. This study showed that the KO effectively ameliorated colitis symptoms, reduced the excessive production of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α), and inhibited the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. The KO also decreased the concentration of LPS and DAO, and increased the gene expression of tight junction proteins. Moreover, the KO reduced the relative abundance of Firmicutes/Bacteroides, restored the structure of intestinal microbiota, and increased the content of SCFAs. All the improved characteristics promoted the intestinal health of mice. All these findings suggest that the KO could ameliorate colitis symptoms, inhibit inflammatory response, repair intestinal damage, and regulate intestinal microbiota and SCFAs. Thus, the KO might be a promising candidate for the dietary treatment of UC and improve the intestinal symbiosis.

Keywords

• Antarctic krill oil
• Ulcerative colitis
• NF-κB
• Intestinal microbiota
• Short chain fatty acid
• Intestinal barrier