Canthaxanthin improves dextran sulfate sodium-induced chronic colitis by modulating intestinal barrier and gut microbiota

This study explored the beneficial effects of canthaxanthin (CX) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced chronic colitis in mice and its underlying mechanisms. Oral administration of CX alleviated colitis severity, as demonstrated by reduced weight loss, diarrhea, hematochezia, colon shortening, and pathological colon injury. Improvements in intestinal permeability and inflammation were indicated by significantly decreased levels of permeability markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, CX mitigated mucus barrier dysfunction by enhancing goblet cell proliferation and mucin-2 secretion. CX reinforced the epithelial barrier by preserving tight junction function and preventing excessive apoptosis of colonic epithelial cells. Furthermore, CX modulated DSS-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis by reshaping the diversity and structure of both bacterial and fungal communities, increasing the abundance of beneficial microbes while reducing the prevalence of harmful microbes. To conclude, CX can effectively alleviate chronic colitis via modulating intestinal barrier function and maintaining microbiome homeostasis, providing a potential dietary therapy for UC. • Canthaxanthin alleviated the symptoms of chronic colitis in mice. • Canthaxanthin strengthened intestinal barrier and reduced inflammation. • Canthaxanthin reshaped gut bacterial composition and reversed bacterial dysbiosis. • Canthaxanthin modulated fungal composition and maintained intestinal homeostasis.