Astragalin Attenuates Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Acute Experimental Colitis by Alleviating Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and Inhibiting NF-κB Activation in Mice

Researchers investigated whether astragalin, a flavonoid compound found in moringa and other plants, could help treat ulcerative colitis using a mouse model of the disease. They induced colitis in mice using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), a chemical that damages the colon lining and creates inflammation similar to human ulcerative colitis. The mice were then treated with astragalin to see if it could reduce the severity of symptoms. The results showed that astragalin treatment significantly improved multiple aspects of the disease. Treated mice experienced less weight loss, had lower disease activity scores, and showed less colon shortening compared to untreated mice. The compound also reduced tissue damage in the colon and decreased levels of inflammatory molecules like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Additionally, astragalin improved the gut barrier function by increasing protective proteins and positively altered the gut microbiome by promoting beneficial bacteria while reducing harmful ones. The researchers found that astragalin works by blocking the NF-κB signaling pathway, which is a key driver of inflammation. This study suggests that astragalin, as a natural compound from moringa and other sources, might offer a promising alternative approach for managing inflammatory bowel conditions.