Marjoram oil attenuates oxidative stress and improves colonic epithelial barrier function in dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in Balb/c mice

Abstract

In this study, we explored the effects of marjoram oil (MO) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in Balb/c mice. Marjoram oil was found to significantly reduce the severity of DSS-induced colonic inflammation, as reflected by improved disease activity index, prevented colon length shortening, lower histopathological score, decreased myeloperoxidase activity, and reduced interlukin 6 (IL-6) levels. Moreover, marjoram oil pretreatment enhanced the colonic epithelial integrity by decreasing paracellular permeability. Marjoram oil was found to clearly reduce the colonic levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay and enhance the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione sulfhydryl content. Marjoram oil could exert a protective effect on ulcerative colitis through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.