Parthenolide, an inhibitor of the nuclear factor-κB pathway, ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice

Zhi Jing Zhao, Jun Ying Xiang, Liu Liu, Xiao Li Huang, Hua Tian Gan , 

Abstract

Background

Activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), which controls transcription of various pro-inflammatory cytokine genes, has been shown to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone compound isolated from extracts of the herb Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), has been demonstrated to be a potent inhibitor of NF-κB activation. This study was designed to investigate the effects of parthenolide on an experimental murine colitis model.

Materials and methods

Experimental colitis was induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), and mice were divided into 3 groups: normal control, DSS + saline, and DSS + parthenolide. The disease activity index (DAI) and histological score were observed. The tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Phospho-IκBα, IκBα and phospho-NF-κB p65 expression were assessed by western blot analysis. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was determined by using MPO assay kit.

parthenolide (Biopurify Phytochemicals Ltd, Chengdu, PR China; purity > 98%)