The mechanism of this protective effect of butyrate is not known, and this study examines the
effect of butyrate on epithelial function, inducible heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) expression,
and NF-κB activation in experimental colitis. Colitis was induced in rats by oral dextran
sulfate sodium (DSS) and by butyrate or saline enemas. Mucosal barrier function was
assessed by electrical resistance and [14C] mannitol permeability. HSP70 production was …