Background: Previously, we have reported that IL-33 functioned as a protective modulator in dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced chronic colitis by suppressing Th17 cell response in colon lamina propria and IL-33 induced both regulatory B cells (Bregs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) of mice with DSS-induced acute colitis. Moreover, we speculated that IL-33 would promote the Treg or Breg responses leading to the attenuation of DSS-induced chronic colitis. So, we investigated the role of IL-33 on Bregs and Tregs in the MLN of DSS-induced chronic colitis mice.
Methods: IL-33 was administered by intraperitoneal injection to mice with DSS-induced chronic colitis. Clinical symptoms, colon length, and histological changes were determined. The production of cytokines was measured by ELISA. The T and B cell subsets were measured by flow cytometry. The expression of mRNA of transcription factors was measured by quantitative real-time PCR.
Results: We show that IL-33 treatment increases both Breg and Treg responses in the MLN of mice with DSS-induced chronic colitis. Moreover, IL-33 treatment also decreases Th17 cell response in the MLN of mice with DSS-induced chronic colitis.
Conclusion: Our data provide clear evidence that IL-33 plays a protective role in DSS-induced chronic colitis, which is closely related to increasing Breg and Treg responses in the MLN of mice as well as suppressing Th17 cell responses.