TNF-α-induced up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines is reduced by phosphatidylcholine in intestinal epithelial cells

Abstract

PC induces a prolonged inhibition of TNF-alpha-induced pro-inflammatory signalling. This inhibition may be caused by a shift of the TNF-alpha receptors at the surface to lipid rafts. Our results may offer a potential molecular explanation for the positive role of PC seen in clinical studies for the treatment of ulcerative colitis.