A novel lutein-stevioside complex inhibits DSS-induced colitis

Abstract Lutein is a natural strong antioxidant that has been reported to prevent inflammation and cancer in the body. However, its low solubility and bioavailability limit its efficacy. We previously prepared a highly water-soluble lutein-stevioside (LUT-STE) complex, which significantly improved the bioavailability of lutein. This study aims to explore whether the complex can further improve its effectiveness in preventing colitis. In this study, a DSS-induced inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) model was used to explore whether the complex can further improve its effectiveness in preventing colitis. The results showed that both LUT-STE and LUT + STE showed a good inhibitory effect on colitis, which was better than their single treatment group. LUT and STE showed a synergistic effect in inhibiting colitis function. LUT and STE intervention could significantly improve the symptoms of DSS-induced colitis, including inhibiting weight loss, colon shortening, hematochezia, intestinal tissue damage, and secretion and expression of inflammatory factors. In addition, LUT and STE treatment increased mRNA expression levels of tight junction proteins ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin-1, restored intestinal tissue integrity, and improved the expression of short-chain fatty acid receptor genes GRP41 and GRP43, which contributed to enhancing the production of medium-short chain fatty acids in mice. The STE encapsulates the LUT through adjustment. The relative abundance of Rikenellaceae , Prevotellaceae , Lachnospiraceae , Ruminococcaceae , Erysipelotrichaceae , Helicobacteraceae , and Bacteroidaceae regulate the ecological imbalance of intestinal microbiome and change the function of a microbial community. Therefore, LUT and STE can improve DSS-induced colitis by regulating intestinal flora structure and some vital intestinal microorganisms. LUT and STE may be promising substances for treating human IBD and provide the fundamental theoretical basis for developing nutritional prevention and intervention strategies. Graphical Abstract