Antioxidant Activity of Bovine Colostrum in the Colon of a Mouse Model of TNBS-Induced Colitis

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Abstract
(1) Background: Bovine colostrum (BC) is the initial milk produced by cows after giving birth and has revealed significant potential in helping various health conditions, particularly in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as inflammatory bowel disease, including colitis. BC is renowned for its rich composition of components that strengthen the immune system. Inflammatory bowel diseases, including colitis, are characterized by elevated oxidative stress, leading to tissue damage and exacerbated symptoms. The aim of this study was to explore the potential antioxidant activity of bovine colostrum in the context of a mouse model of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced colitis. The effectiveness of BC in mitigating oxidative stress and its effects on colitis was evaluated. (2) Methods: Mice were divided into two groups, one group received BC by gavage for 21 days, the other group received saline solution; after 21 days one half of each of the two groups of mice were treated intrarectally with trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid to induce colitis. Colon samples were processed by immunocytochemical methods. The immunoreactivity of the main antioxidant enzymes, (i) catalase (CAT), (ii) superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), (iii) superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), at the colon level was analyzed. (3) Results: The results showed positive immunoreactivity of catalase and SOD2 activities of BC in the colon of animals after induction of inflammation. (4) Conclusions: The findings have the potential to suggest new strategies for the management of gastrointestinal disorders related to oxidative stress. Furthermore, the knowledge gained could contribute to the development of functional foods or supplements specifically designed for the management of colitis. Future studies will be aimed at identifying the bioactive fractions of BC to study the mechanisms underlying its actions, as well as to trace which populations can benefit most from colostrum consumption, in addition to subjects with gastrointestinal disorders.

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