Abstract ▼ AI-Helper

Restraint stress induces permeability changes in the large intestine. Intestinal permeability was associated with the presence of apoptosis. Ferulic acid (FA) is one of phenol compounds ubiquitously existing in the fruits, vegetables such as rice bran and tomatoes. FA has been proved to be a potent ...

Restraint stress induces permeability changes in the large intestine. Intestinal permeability was associated with the presence of apoptosis. Ferulic acid (FA) is one of phenol compounds ubiquitously existing in the fruits, vegetables such as rice bran and tomatoes. FA has been proved to be a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic agent in human. However, the effects of FA on intestinal permeability have not yet been established. The aim of present study was to examine the effects of FA on intestinal permeability and expression of intestine tight junction (TJ) proteins in human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells and experimental animal model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). To study in vitro effect of FA, tert-butyl hydroperoxide(t-BHP)-induced cell death (mainly apoptosis) and DNA condensation were examined. Pretreatment with FA significantly restored mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), suggesting that it protected cells against t-BHP-induced apoptosis. Western blot analysis also revealed that FA markedly inhibited cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activation with increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Also, mitochondria- protective effect of FA prevented alteration of TJ protein levels induced by t-BHP, leading to decrease of intestinal permeability. Furthermore, FA improved large intestinal permeability in DSS-treated mice. These results suggest that FA maintained intestinal permeability via modulation of disruption TJ proteins by apoptosis.

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