Additionally, the upregulated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-18, IL1-B, IL-6 and TNF-α in colitic rats were downregulated in the MSPNP-treated group, which is suggestive of their potential role in treating IBD by blocking factors that injure the intestines and by augmenting factors that heal them. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is inflammatory bowel disease.