Pomegranate seed oil mitigates liver and kidney damage in an experimental colitis model: Modulation of NF-κB activation and apoptosis

Pomegranate seed oil, extracted from pomegranate seeds, is a slightly fragrant yellow oil with a mild odor. Pomegranate seed oil is the main source of punicic acid (conjugated linolenic acid). Punicic acid is a long-chain omega-5 polyunsaturated fatty acid and a conjugated α-linolenic acid molecule. This acid is thought to provide many health benefits. This study evaluated the potential of pomegranate seed oil to attenuate damage to liver and kidney tissues in an acetic acid-induced colitis model. 32 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups: control, colitis, 0.4 ml/kg, and 0.8 ml/kg pomegranate seed oil treatment after colitis. At the end of the experiment, histopathological and immunohistochemistry analyses of liver and kidney tissues were performed. Pomegranate seed oil treatment reduced damage in liver and kidney tissues, suppressed NF-κB activation, and regulated apoptosis. These findings support the potential effects of pomegranate seed oil against extraintestinal symptoms of colitis through its anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. •Pomegranate seed oil markedly reduces colitis-induced liver and kidney tissue damage.•Pomegranate seed oil is effective in regulating NF-κB activation.•Pomegranate seed oil has the potential to suppress colitis-associated increased apoptosis.•Pomegranate seed oil may be a natural alternative to relieve the extraintestinal symptoms of colitis.