Improvement of Gut Barrier Function by Potato Anthocyanins Is Dependent on Gut Microbiota

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by chronic colonic inflammation, impaired barrier function and gut bacterial dysbiosis. Anthocyanin-containing potatoes have been shown to maintain the intestinal barrier function in colitic mice. However, the role of gut microbiota in the anti-colitic effects of anthocyanin- containing potatoes is not clear. This study evaluated the gut barrier protective efficacy of purple- and red-fleshed potatoes using a DSS- induced murine model of colitis with the intact and antibiotic-depleted microbiota