Effects of Berberine Hydrochloride on the Expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 of Colon Tissue in Mice with Ulcerative Colitis

OBJECTIVE To observe the effects of berberine hydrochloride (BBR) on the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 of colon tissue in mice with ulcerative colitis(UC), and to explore the possible mechanisms of its therapeutic effects on UC. METHODS BALB/c mice were randomly divided into five groups:model control group, low dose BBR group, high dose BBR group, salazosulfapyridine(SASP)/positive control group and blank control group. UC model was established by dextran sulphate sodium(DSS), and then daily gavage administration was given for 7 days. During the course of experiment, the general conditions of mice were observed, and disease activity index(DAI) were assessed. At the end of treatment, colon tissue were dissected, its macroscopic damage index(CMDI) and tissue damage index(TDI) were evaluated, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 were determined by ELISA. RESULTS Compared with model control group, the clinical symptoms of colitis in BBR groups were greatly improved, the DAI, CMDI and TDI in BBR groups were all reduced obviously, and the contents of TNF-α, IL-1β were markedly decreased while IL-10 increased(P<0.05). CONCLUSION The therapeutic effect of BBR on colitis of UC mice is efficient, the mechanism may be related to its inhibition of TNF-α and IL-1β, and enhancement of IL-10 in colon tissue.