Grape seed extract improves small intestinal health through suppressing inflammation and regulating alkaline phosphatase in IL-10-deficient mice

The effects of dietary grape seed extract (GSE) on protecting jejunum epithelial were investigated using interlukin-10-deficient mice. GSE supplementation increased villus length, mucosal thickness and enhanced goblet cell density associated with enhanced expression of villin and two key differentiation transcription factors, Hairy/Enhancer of Split 1 (Hes1) and Krüppel-Like Factor-4 (Klf4), and increased p21 (CIP1/WAF1) content. Additionally, expression of nutrient transporters, alanyl aminopeptidase and glucose transporter-2 were increased in GSE supplemented jejunum. Consistent with its anti-inflammatory effects, GSE supplementation decreased tumor necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ expression and down-regulated NF-κB signalling. Furthermore, GSE decreased total alkaline phosphatase activity with a concomitant increase in intestinal alkaline phosphatase protein. Thus, GSE improves jejunum health in interlukin10-deficient mice likely through suppressing inflammation and regulating alkaline phosphatase.