(‐)‐Epigallocatechin 3‐gallate decreases markers of inflammation in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis (1045.24)

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that manifests as constant/cyclic episodes of colonic inflammation, oxidative stress, increased intestinal permeability, and ulceration followed by periods of quiescence. UC increases risk of colon cancer. Green tea polyphenols, such as epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), have been shown to inhibit oxidative stress in animal and cell studies. Here, we examined the anti‐inflammatory effects of EGCG in the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced CF‐1 mouse model of UC. Following induction of colitis by treatment with 1.5% DSS for 7 days, mice were treated with EGCG (0.32%) as the sole source of drinking fluid for 3 days. In the colon homogenate, inflammatory cytokine levels of IL‐6 and TNF‐α were decreased by 50% and IL‐1β by 25% as a result of the EGCG administration. Plasma inflammatory markers and endotoxin levels were also decreased. These results suggest that EGCG can decrease both inflammatory response and intestinal permeability in the DSS‐induced UC mouse model. Ongoing mechanistic studies are focused on determining the effect of EGCG on gut barrier function.