Protective effect of lactulose on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colonic inflammation in rats

Background/Aim: Intestinal microflora is likely an important initiating factor in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Promising results have recently been obtained with probiotic therapy in UC. Orally administered lactulose has been shown to increase the colonic levels of Lactobacillus species associated with probiotic activity. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of lactulose on a rat UC model induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Methods: Experimental colitis was induced in male Wistar rats by 3% DSS-solution added to drinking water for 7 days. Lactulose (300–1000mg/kg) was a…