Preventive Effect of Djulis on Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Chronic Colitis in Mice

Background : Djulis is an aboriginal cereal crop native to Taiwan, and its effects on patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) warrant exploration. The present study investigated whether consumption of djulis can alleviate chronic colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in mice. Methods : Forty mice were randomly divided into five groups: blank group (B), control group (C), low-dose group (L), medium-dose group (M), and high-dose group (H). Body weight and disease activity index (DAI) were recorded throughout the study. Groups C, L, M, and H were administered with 2% DSS water on days 1–5 and 10–15 to induce chronic colitis. Groups L, M, and H were administered 5%, 10%, and 15% djulis, respectively. Serum and colon samples were collected for further analysis. Results : The DAI scores of groups L, M, and H were significantly lower than those of group C (P<.05), and the DAI scores of group H on day 18 were significantly lower than those of group L (P<.05). Colon length analysis revealed that DSS treatment significantly shortened colon length in group C (P<.05), whereas mice consuming djulis (groups L, M, and H) exhibited restoration of colon length, with the effect being most pronounced in group H. DSS significantly increased the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the serum and the expression of pro-inflammatory proteins in the colon (P<.05); however, djulis reversed these effects (especially in group H). In addition, mice in group H exhibited a beneficial gut microbiota. Conclusion : Djulis alleviated chronic colitis in mice by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut microbiota. Further research is required to validate the potential of djulis as a dietary treatment option for IBD patients.