Omentum Cells Promote Healing of Colonic Tissues in Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS) Induced Model of Colitis in Mice

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel disease is characterized by persistent inflammation of the intestinal tissues. Although the usage of biologics has greatly enhanced the management of this disorder, a permanent treatment does not exist. In this study, we investigated whether the cells with anti-inflammatory and healing properties from the omentum could be harnessed to treat colitis in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis model. METHODS: C57BL/6 mice were administered 2% DSS for 10 days and then injected in the peritoneum with cells isolated from the murine omentum. Thereafter, body weight change, serum KC levels, and histological analysis of the colon were conducted. We also examined if omentum infused mice were resistant to a lethal challenge of 4% DSS. RESULTS: 2% DSS-mice injected with omentum cells exhibited a decrease in body weight loss, decreased inflammation in the colon and decreased levels of the inflammatory cytokine KC in the serum compared to mice given 2% DSS alone. In addition, mice administered a lethal dose of 4% DSS exhibited a 50% decrease in mortality when injected with omentum cells. CONCLUSION: Cells from the omentum exert anti-inflammatory and/or healing properties in the acute DSS-induced colitis model.