Mice with DSS-induced colitis used in this study consistently showed decreased expression of ZO-1, occludin, MUC2, and MUC13 (Figs. 1F–H, 6G), and elevated level of plasma LPS (Figs. 1I, 6H), indicating an impairment of intestinal barrier functions and thereby increased intestinal permeability. This evidence concerns the gene MUC13 and colitis.