Comparison of protective effects of young and ripened persimmon extracts against inflammatory stress induced by deoxycholic acid in small intestinal cells

Bile acids are endogenous metabolites that aid in the digestion and absorption of ingested fat and fat-soluble vitamins. However, high concentrations of deoxycholic acid (DCA) in the colon are associated with high incidence of colorectal cancer. In the present study, the binding of persimmon extracts to DCA in order to decrease inflammatory stress induced by DCA in a small intestinal epithelial cell line, Caco-2, was investigated. Young and ripened persimmons were extracted with distilled water (DW), ethanol, and acidic ethanol. Further, DW extract residue was re-extracted with acidic ethanol. Of the obtained extracts, acidic ethanol extract of young persimmon showed the highest bile-acid binding capacity. Moreover, acidic ethanol extract of young persimmon significantly inhibited nitric oxide production in Caco-2 cells stimulated with DCA and prevented significant reduction of trans-epithelial electric resistance. Based on these results, acidic ethanol extract of young persimmon can be used as a functional ingredient to enhance gastrointestinal health.