Nicotine improves DSS-induced colitis by inhibiting NLRP3 and altering gut microbiota

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease affecting the rectum and colon. Numerous epidemiological studies have identified smoking as a protective factor for UC. Dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota and release of inflammatory factors are well-established characteristics associated with UC. Therefore, we have observed that nicotine exhibits the potential to ameliorate colitis symptoms in UC mice. Additionally, it exerts a regulatory effect on colonic microbiota dysbiosis by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria while suppressing harmful bacteria. Combined in vivo and in vitro investigations demonstrate that nicotine primarily impedes the assembly of NLRP3, subsequently inhibiting downstream IL-1β secretion.

Keywords:

• Nicotine
• ulcerative colitis
• gut microbiota
• NLRP3
• IL-1β

Disclosure statement

All authors approved this manuscript and no author has financial or other contractual agreements that might cause conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by Tobacco and Health funding program (No. 2022539200340035) and Science and technology project of China Tobacco Yunnan Industry Co., Ltd (2021JC07).