DSS-induced colitis is the most widely used mouse model of colitis, such as is seen in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Acute colitis can be achieved within 7-10 days, while chronic colitis can be induced by 3-5 cycles of the former with 1-2 weeks in between each cycle.[2]
Mechanism
DSS is thought to induce colitis by causing injury to the colonic epithelium. The sulphate groups make the dextran molecules highly negatively charged and induce erosions in the epithelium, eventually compromising its integrity and increasing its permeability, while DSS's anticoagulant action promotes intestinal bleeding.[2]