Comprehensive evaluation of Capsosiphon fulvescens water extract: Assessing its effects on intestinal barrier integrity and inflammation in vitro and in vivo

• Tight junction barriers are crucial in mitigating risks posed by external substances and microorganisms in the gut. • Capsosiphon fulvescens extract improves gut barrier function in Caco-2 cells. • Capsosiphon fulvescens improved gut inflammation in DSS-induced colitis mice. • Capsosiphon fulvescens as a potential functional food ingredient for gut health. Capsosiphon fulvescens has potential benefits for functionality. However, research on its impact on gut health is limited. In this study, the therapeutic efficacy of Capsosiphon fulvescens water extract (CFW) was investigated, with its intestinal health benefits confirmed in Caco-2 cell and mouse models. In the animal study, 32 male C57BL/6 mice were divided into control, DSS, and CFW treatment groups and treated for 28 days, with DSS given ad libitum in 7 days. Significant improvements in various biomarkers related to intestinal barrier function, including increased transepithelial electrical resistance values and reduced permeability, were observed in vitro model. Moreover, the administration of CFW was associated with improved histological scores and improved levels of TJ proteins and cytokines. The therapeutic efficacy of CFW is believed to be associated with the bioactive compounds found in the extract. The findings here highlight the promising therapeutic potential of CFW for managing inflammatory bowel disease.