[In vitro model system of transepithelial migration of neutrophil by Helicobacter pylori]

Migration of neutrophil across the intestinal epithelium is a structural hallmark of active intestinal diseases. One of the characteristic histologic features of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is neutrophil infiltration of the gastric mucosa. This study was aimed to establish an in vitro model system of transepithelial migration of neutrophil by H. pylori.

Caco-2 cells were grown on polycarbonate membrane. Confluence and integrity were assessed by measuring the transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and paracellular permeability of macromolecular marker. IL-8 mRNA expression was assessed after H. pylori infection by quantitative RT-PCR. Isolated neutrophils and H. pylori were applied to the basolateral and apical compartment in separate. Also neutrophil transmigration was assessed by light and electron microscopy.

Paracellular leakage of 3[H]-mannitol was negligible over TER 166 Omega x cm2. IL-8 mRNA expression increased after H. pylori infection. Neutrophil transmigration was increased by adding of N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine or H. pylori.

This in vitro model system could be applied to the study of pathogenesis of H. pylori infection. A further study of quantification of transmigrated neutrophils is demanded to reach a confirmation.