Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Function and Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Overview

Journal Newborn (Clarksville)

Date 2022 Jul 18

PMID 35846894

Authors

Elizabeth Managlia

Xiaocai Yan

Isabelle G De Plaen

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in premature infants. NEC is characterized by intestinal tissue inflammation and necrosis. The intestinal barrier is altered in NEC, which potentially contributes to its pathogenesis by promoting intestinal bacterial translocation and stimulating the inflammatory response. In premature infants, many components of the intestinal barrier are immature. This article reviews the different components of the intestinal barrier and how their immaturity contributes to intestinal barrier dysfunction and NEC.

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