In conclusion, this study is the first demonstration (to our knowledge) that the Ang 1-7/MAS-1 R axis plays a role in modulating colitis severity, in part through down-regulation of the levels of Ang II and the phosphorylation of key signaling molecules involved in the inflammatory process such as ERK1/2, p38 MAPK and Akt. This evidence concerns the gene MAPK3 and colitis.