Black Garlic Extract Reduces Inflammation and Pain in Ulcerative Colitis

Greg Howard
27th June, 2024

Black Garlic Extract Reduces Inflammation and Pain in Ulcerative Colitis

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers from "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy, found that aged black garlic extract (ABGE) significantly reduces colon inflammation in experimental models
  • ABGE suppressed the gene expression of key inflammatory markers, including IL-1β, IL-6, NF-kB, and TNF-α, in rat colon specimens
  • ABGE also dose-dependently alleviated visceral pain in rats with induced colitis, reducing both behavioral pain responses and abdominal contractions
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition characterized by recurring inflammation of the colon, often accompanied by gut dysmotility and abdominal pain. Recent research from "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy, investigated the potential benefits of aged black garlic extract (ABGE) on colon inflammation and associated visceral pain using both ex vivo and in vivo experimental models[1]. The study aimed to explore the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of ABGE by examining its effects on rat colon specimens exposed to E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a known model for ulcerative colitis. Researchers measured the gene expression of various inflammatory biomarkers, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Additionally, the study assessed the acute effects of ABGE on visceral pain in rats with colitis induced by 2,4-dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) injection. The findings revealed that ABGE significantly suppressed LPS-induced gene expression of IL-1β, IL-6, NF-kB, and TNF-α, indicating its strong anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, acute administration of ABGE (0.03-1 g/kg) dose-dependently alleviated post-inflammatory visceral pain. The highest dose (1 g/kg) notably reduced both the behavioral nociceptive response and the extent of abdominal contractions, as measured by electromyography, in response to colorectal distension in DNBS-treated rats. These results suggest that ABGE could be a promising therapeutic strategy for managing colitis-associated inflammation and visceral pain. The beneficial effects of ABGE are likely attributed to its polyphenolic composition, particularly the presence of gallic acid and catechin. This study builds on previous research highlighting the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in IBD. For instance, earlier findings demonstrated that patients with active IBD exhibit increased oxidative stress, characterized by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation markers like malondialdehyde (MDA)[2]. Moreover, even patients in remission showed lower antioxidant enzyme levels and higher lipid peroxidation compared to healthy controls, suggesting a persistent oxidative imbalance[2]. Garlic, known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering properties, has shown health benefits in various conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders[3]. The current study's findings on ABGE's anti-inflammatory effects align with the known properties of garlic and its derivatives, further supporting its potential therapeutic use. Additionally, pain management in IBD remains a significant challenge. Chronic pain often requires a multifaceted approach, including pharmacological, psychological, lifestyle, and dietary interventions[4]. The study's demonstration of ABGE's efficacy in reducing visceral pain adds a valuable option to the existing pain management strategies for IBD patients. In conclusion, the research from "G. d'Annunzio" University indicates that ABGE has potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, making it a potential candidate for treating colitis-associated inflammation and visceral pain. These findings not only expand our understanding of garlic's therapeutic properties but also offer a new avenue for improving the quality of life for IBD patients.

MedicineHealthBiochem

References

Main Study

1) Anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic effects induced by an aqueous aged black garlic extract in rodent models of ulcerative colitis and colitis-associated visceral pain.

Published 24th June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.8270

Related Studies

2) Different profile of peripheral antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation in active and non-active inflammatory bowel disease patients.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-012-2510-z

3) Potential Health Benefit of Garlic Based on Human Intervention Studies: A Brief Overview.

https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9070619

4) Chronic abdominal pain in inflammatory bowel disease: a practical guide.

https://doi.org/10.1136/flgastro-2023-102471


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