Inhibition of Selectin Function and Leukocyte Rolling Protects Against Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Murine Colitis

Background: The selectin family of adhesion molecules (P-, E- and L-selectin) plays an important role in inflammatory reactions by mediating interactions between leukocytes and activated endothelial cells. However, a recent study using gene-targeted mice has suggested that adhesion molecules (P- and Eselectin and ICAM-1) may not be relevant targets in intestinal inflammation. The objective of the present study was to re-evaluate the potential role of selectins in experimental colitis in wild-type mice using the polysaccharide fucoidan, which inhibits the function of P- and L-selectin. Methods: For this purpose, Balb/c mice were exposed to 5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in the drinking water for 5 days with and without daily administration of fucoidan (25 mg/kg, i.v.). In separate experiments, the effect of fucoidan on leukocyte-endothelium interactions was examined by use of intravital microscopy. Results: