Because flagellin is a potent activator of innate immune cells through recognition by Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) and the NOD-like receptor family CARD domain-containing protein 4 (NLRC4), this increase in flagellin may activate innate signaling pathways that amplify inflammation and exacerbate colitis during DSS treatment. This evidence concerns the gene TLR5 and colitis.