Transcriptome analysis reveals the effect of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. on DSS-induced colitis in mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a subtype of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is characterized by chronic and relapsing mucosal inflammation initiating in the rectum and extending upward through part or the entire colon in a continuous fashion. Currently, 5-aminosalicylic acid agents, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and surgery are the main treatments for UC, which are limited in clinical practice due to common nonadherence, serious adverse effects and heavy financial burden. Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (Baizhu) has been used for improving gastrointestinal function and treating digestive disorders for thousands of years, and is currently one of the most frequently used traditional Chinese medicines for the treatment of UC. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect and underlying mechanism of polysaccharide from Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (PAMK) on UC based on a mouse model of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. To investigate the mechanism of therapeutic effect of PAMK on colitis, we performed the microarray analysis of colonic tissues in Control, DSS and DSS+PAMK groups. The results indicated that the beneficial effect of PAMK on DSS-induced colitis may rely on the regulation of the immune response. Microarray analysis was performed on colonic tissues from the Control, DSS and DSS+PAMK (200 mg/kg PAMK, i.g.) groups (n=3)