Preventive Effects of Crataegus monogyna Fruit Extract on Oxidative Damage and Inflammatory Response in a Rat Model of Acetic Acid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis.

BackgroundUlcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. Natural products may offer protective effects, though their mechanisms remain unclear. Hawthorn fruit (Crataegus monogyna) is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, providing a rationale to explore its potential against UC ObjectiveTo evaluate the protective effects and mechanisms of Crataegus monogyna fruit extract (CMFE) in acetic acid-induced UC in rats. MethodsSix groups of Wistar rats were used: control, acetic acid (AA), AA + CMFE (100, 200, 400 mg/kg, p.o.), and AA + sulfasalazine (100 mg/kg, p.o.). Treatments lasted 10 days, followed by AA rectal infusion (300 mg/kg). Colonic damage was assessed macroscopically and histologically. Oxidative stress markers (MDA, thiols, SOD, CAT, GPx) were measured in colon homogenates, while CRP, ALP, iron, and calcium levels were determined in plasma. ResultsCMFE pretreatment significantly reduced macroscopic and microscopic damage, protecting the colonic mucosa from AA-induced lesions. AA increased MDA and decreased SH-group as well as antioxidant enzyme activities, whereas CMFE restored these parameters. CMFE also normalized CRP, ALP, iron, and calcium levels, counteracting AA-induced inflammatory and metabolic disturbances. ConclusionCMFE shows strong protective effects against AA-induced colitis by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation. These findings support its potential use in green medicine as a natural therapeutic agent for inflammatory bowel diseases.