# Gallic Acid Alleviates Injury of Intestine Induced by Escherichia Coli: Protective Role of Metalloproteinase and Antioxidants on Small Intestine In-vivo

## TL;DR

Gallic acid helps protect the intestines from E. coli damage by reducing inflammation and boosting antioxidants in mice.

## Contribution

This study shows that gallic acid reduces E. coli-induced intestinal injury through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in a mouse model.

## Key findings

- E. coli infection increased IL-6 and MMP-9 levels while decreasing intestinal antioxidants like SOD and GSH-Px.
- Gallic acid treatment significantly improved biochemical and histopathological outcomes in E. coli-infected mice.
- Gallic acid reduced intestinal damage and showed potential as a therapeutic for E. coli-induced injury.

## Abstract

Background: Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common pathogen that can cause
significant morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. The aim of this
study was to investigate the effects of gallic acid (GA) on a mice infected with
of E. coli enteritis and evaluate the serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and
matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, as well as any histopathological changes
before and after exposure. Materials and Methods: Forty Swiss male mice were
divided into four groups: Group I (negative control), Group II (received oral
GA, 80 mg/kg/b.wt), Group III (orally inoculated with E. coli, 1×107 CFU, for
four days), and Group IV (received oral GA, 80 mg/kg/b.wt, for 10 days after E.
coli inoculation). Serum was collected to assess IL-6 and MMP-9 levels.
Intestinal samples were examined for antioxidant parameters, including
superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase.
Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were performed. Results: Group III
exhibited significantly higher IL-6 and MMP-9 levels compared to the other
groups (P0.001). Antioxidant activity in the intestine, measured by SOD and
GSH-Px, was lower in Group III compared to Group I. Conversely, Group IV showed
significant improvements in biochemical, histopathological, and
immunohistochemical outcomes, alongside reduced intestinal damage caused by E.
coli. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that E. coli infection in mice
increases IL-6 and MMP-9 levels while decreasing intestinal antioxidants.
Concurrent administration of GA significantly improves outcomes, suggesting its
potential as a therapeutic remedy for E. coli-induced intestinal damage.
Furthers research is imperative to determine the underlying pathways by which GA
exerts its beneficial outcomes.