Antioxidant ameliorating effect of setria (reduced glutathione) on experimentally induced colitis in adult male albino rats

Abstract

Introduction: Ulcerative colitis is a common worldwide health problem. Its etiology remains unknown but it's commonly associated with reduced antioxidant activity and free radicals formation. Glutathione is an important antioxidant present in human body. Aim: To evaluate the possible ameliorating effect of Setria on acetic acid induced ulcerative colitis. Materials and Methods: Thirty six adult male albino rats were divided into four groups. Group I (control): eighteen rats divided equally into three subgroups. Group II: six rats injected acetic acid intrarectally under anesthesia. Group III: six rats received Setria 50 mg/kg/day via an oral gavage. Group IV: six rats received acetic acid then after two days received Setria same dose and route as group II, III. At the end of the experiment, blood samples collected to measure MDA and GSH level. Colon samples were processed for histopathological, immunohistochemical, scanning electron microscopic examination and morphometric analyses. Results: Macroscopic and microscopic grading of the specimens was done. Examination of distal colon sections from group II showed shedding of the surface epithelium with absence of mucosal crypts, hemorrhage and wide area of necrosis. That is accompanied with an apparent increase in submucosa, muscle layer thickness with heavy infiltration by inflammatory cells and vacuolation. PAS sections showed decrease in goblet cells, Mallory trichrome sections increase in collagen deposition in submucosa, Touildine blue section revealed multiple mast cells and iNOS sections showed strong reaction. Scanning electron microscope showed maceration of mucosa, wide cryptal opening with lack of microvilli. Examination of group IV sections showed apparent improvement in almost all layers. Conclusion: Setria had an ameliorating effect on acetic acid induced colitis.