Gallic Acid Alleviates Injury of Intestine Induced by Escherichia Coli: Protective Role of Metalloproteinase and Antioxidants on Small Intestine In-vivo.

BACKGROUND

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common pathogen that can cause significant morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of gallic acid (GA) on a mice infected with of E. coli enteritis and evaluate the serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, as well as any histopathological changes before and after exposure.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Forty Swiss male mice were divided into four groups: Group I (negative control), Group II (received oral GA, 80 mg/kg/b.wt), Group III (orally inoculated with E. coli, 1×107 CFU, for four days), and Group IV (received oral GA, 80 mg/kg/b.wt, for 10 days after E. coli inoculation). Serum was collected to assess IL-6 and MMP-9 levels. Intestinal samples were examined for antioxidant parameters, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were performed.

RESULTS

Group III exhibited significantly higher IL-6 and MMP-9 levels compared to the other groups (P0.001). Antioxidant activity in the intestine, measured by SOD and GSH-Px, was lower in Group III compared to Group I. Conversely, Group IV showed significant improvements in biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical outcomes, alongside reduced intestinal damage caused by E. coli.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that E. coli infection in mice increases IL-6 and MMP-9 levels while decreasing intestinal antioxidants. Concurrent administration of GA significantly improves outcomes, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic remedy for E. coli-induced intestinal damage. Furthers research is imperative to determine the underlying pathways by which GA exerts its beneficial outcomes.