Saikosaponin A protects against dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice

Ulcerative colitis, one of the most important inflammatory bowel diseases, affects millions of people worldwide. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Saikosaponin A on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. The mice were treated with 2.5% DSS for 5 d to induce acute colitis. Saikosaponin A was given 3 d before and during DSS treatment by intragastric administration. The results showed that Saikosaponin A significantly inhibited DSS-induced body weight loss and shortening of colon length. DSS-induced colonic histological changes and MPO activity were also prevented by treatment of Saikosaponin A. The levels of TNF-α and IL-1ß were increased by DSS and dose-dependently inhibited by Saikosaponin A. Furthermore, Saikosaponin A significantly inhibited DSS-induced NF-κB activation and up-regulated the expression of LXRα. Taken together, our results indicated that Saikosaponin A had protective effects against DSS-induced colitis. Saikosaponin A protected DSS-induced colitis through inhibiting inflammatory response.