In a murine model of colitis, the previous and during-induction administration of CC-AST relieves colitis and significantly inhibits the expression of the inflammatory markers IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, cyclooxygenase-2, myeloperoxidase (MPO), iNOS, and NO in a more potent way than free AST. The gene discussed is IL1B; the disease is colitis.