Ferulic acid – A promising candidate molecule for the treatment of colitis

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease of multi-factorial etiology and responsible for considerable health and socioeconomic burdens given high global prevalence rates. Since current therapy options are associated with various side effects, alternative or adjunct therapy options are utmost wanted. Ferulic acid (FA) is a phenolic compound found in various plants and has attracted scientific interests due to its anti-oxidant properties and recently been hyped as a longevity compound. This systematic review summarizes current evidence for anti-colitogenic effects of FA. Results of the included studies revealed that FA, its derivatives, and synthesized FA-containing nanoparticles i.) alleviated experimental colitis; ii.) dampened pro-inflammatory immune responses; iii.) tightened the gut epithelial barrier; and iv.) reshaped the gut microbiota composition from a dysbiotic to a well-balanced "healthy" state characterized by high species diversity and dominance of probiotic bacterial taxa. Remarkably, in some studies, the observed anti-colitogenic effects of FA were even more pronounced compared to those exerted by treatment with established medications. In conclusion, FA constitutes a promising alternative or adjunct option in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.