Inhibition of Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Experimental Colitis in Mice by Angelica Sinensis Polysaccharide

Studies have confirmed that Angelica sinensis, which is a famous medicinal food in China, can effectively alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats. However, as the major water-soluble ingredient, the specific effects of A. sinensis polysaccharide (ASP) on UC and potential mechanisms were uncertain. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the protective effects of ASP on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC and to further explore the mechanisms. ASP could significantly ameliorate the symptoms of weight loss, disease activity index score, and colon shortening caused by DSS. ASP treatment also significantly suppressed the myeloperoxidase activity in colon tissues. Furthermore, after ASP administration, the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor alpha) induced by DSS was remarkably suppressed, and there was a definite improvement in the expressions of tight junction proteins, such as zona occludens 1, occludin, and claudin-1. In addition, the results of apoptosis experiments showed that the apoptotic events were noticeably reduced after ASP treatment. Taken together, these results suggested that ASP may be a potential natural agent against UC.