Journal of agricultural and food chemistryApr 10, 2026

A Compound from Royal Jelly May Reduce Gut-Brain Inflammation and Memory Problems Linked to Colitis Through IFITM3

Gut-Brain Axis Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗OA ↗

Updated Jun 27, 2026

Abstract

Essence

10-HDA reduced colitis-linked neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits through an IFITM3-related gut-brain pathway in mice.

Evidence

This preclinical mouse study used DSS-induced chronic colitis and IFITM3 knockout models to assess colon and hippocampal inflammation, NF-kappaB activation, astrocyte reactivity, and cognitive performance.

Caveat

The evidence is confined to mouse models of DSS colitis, so it does not establish 10-HDA as a human dietary treatment.

Simplified

10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), a bioactive compound in royal jelly, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study investigates whether 10-HDA alleviates cognitive impairment caused by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced chronic colitis, focusing on IFITM3, an immune regulator linked to intestinal and neuroinflammation. DSS treatment increased IFITM3 in the colon and hippocampus, resulting in neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits. 10-HDA reduced colonic inflammation, suppressed IFITM3-mediated NF-κB activation, improved cognitive performance, and attenuated astrocyte reactivity. IFITM3 knockout mice showed less colitis and neuroinflammation, and 10-HDA's effects were diminished in these mice, suggesting an IFITM3-related mechanism. These results suggest 10-HDA as a potential dietary agent for gut-brain axis health in chronic inflammation.