Abstract

Background:
Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) seeds are rich in bioactive compounds with known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Despite their growing use in traditional medicine, their impact on intestinal health remains underexplored.

Aim:
This study examined the molecular and histopathological effects of Zuhdi date seed extract on the gastrointestinal tract of infected and healthy female rats.

Methods:
A total of 40 albino rats were divided into groups: one infected with enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), another treated with date seed extract, and a control group. The extract was prepared using water immersion, followed by GC-MS analysis to identify active compounds. Major constituents included Trimethylolnitromethane, Glyceraldehyde, and 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural. Histological samples were collected from the colon, cecum, and rectum after 30 days of treatment. Real-time PCR was used to measure MUC1 and MUC4 gene expression.

Results:
The results showed that infected rats had downregulated MUC4 (~0.5 fold) and stable MUC1 expression, while healthy rats treated with date extract showed significant upregulation of MUC1 (~2.0 fold). Histopathological analysis confirmed inflammation, crypt damage, and lymphocytic infiltration in infected tissues, whereas treated tissues showed restored mucosal architecture and reduced inflammatory signs. ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc tests indicated significant differences (P < 0.05) in gene expression among groups.

Conclusion:
The study concludes that date seed extract supports gastrointestinal health by modulating mucin gene expression and improving tissue recovery after infection. These findings suggest potential use of date seed supplements in managing gut inflammation and improving mucosal healing.

Key words: GC-MS; Gene expression; MUC-1; MUC4.