Potential effect of fish oil to preserve expression of cell cycle and tight junction regulating genes in colon after di-isononyl phthalate ingestion in albino Wistar rats

Di-isononyl phthalate (DIP) is considered a high molecular weight subtype of phthalates that are commonly used (to make plastics more durable) and could easily affect the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the main active components of fish oil (FO), and their antiinflammatory potential was previously documented. The current study was designed to investigate the protective potential of fish oil against the impact of DIP exposure on the colon of albino Wistar rats. Sixty albino Wistar rats were divided into control group received corn oil for ten days. DIP treated group received DIP. Diisononyl phthalate + fish oil treated group received both DIP and FO three groups: the control group received corn oil for ten days, the DIP treated group received DIP, and the DIP + FO treated group received both DIP and FO.. FO was found to preserve the histological architecture, tight junction, and cell cycle of the colon. In conclusion, the current study provided an evidence that FO has a protective potential against DIP, and further examination are suggested to fully understand the molecular basis of this potential as a step for further clinical applications.Key words: Di-isononyl phthalate, gastrointestinal tract, fish oil, tight junction, apoptosis