Genes regulating tight junctions and cell adhesion are altered in early experimental necrotizing enterocolitis

• Background/purpose:Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) represents one of the gravest complications in preterm infants and carries significant morbidity and mortality. Increased intestinal permeability may play an important role in the pathogenesis of NEC. In this study we investigated the genes regulating structural proteins such as tight junctions (TJ) and cell adhesion in a neonatal rat model of early NEC, as well as the expression of TJ proteins by immunohistochemistry staining.Methods:The studies were performed on Sprague-Dawley rat pups. Experimental NEC was induced using hypoxia/reoxygenation treatment on day 1 after birth. Intestinal specimens from the ileum were obtained, mRNA was purified and the transcriptome was analyzed using microarray. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed for TJ proteins.Results:We found several TJ genes such as claudins 1, 8, 14, 15 and gap junction protein to be affected. Immunohistochemistry staining for TJ protein claudin-1 revealed decreased levels in experimental NEC compared to controls. Alterations in genes involved in the inflammatory response was confirmed, along with several genes regulating proteins used as biomarkers for NEC.Conclusion:This study indicates that tight junctions and cell adhesion may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of early experimental NEC. Better understanding of the pathogenesis of NEC may lead to novel strategies for the prevention and treatment of NEC.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Kirurgi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Surgery (hsv//eng)

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Medicinska och farmaceutiska grundvetenskaper (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Basic Medicine (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Kirurgi, särskilt barnkirurgi

Pediatric Surgery

Pathology

Patologi

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)