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The Th1 /Th2 immune-type response of the recurrent aphthous ulceration analyzed by cDNA microarray
R C Borra1, P M Andrade, I D C G Silva
1Department of Pathology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. rborra@mco.edu.imagelab@hydra.com.br
Background:
The reduced ability to activate oral tolerance plays a role in the pathogenesis of some gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases. This activation may reflect a preferential reduction of a T-helper (Th)2- or Th3-type response. In recurrent aphthous ulceration (RAU), genetic and environmental factors may contribute to low tolerance, permitting a cytotoxic reaction against the oral epithelium. The cytokine profile has not permitted the definition of RAU as resulting from enhanced Th1 or Th2 responses. A cDNA microarray study would allow the identification of differentially expressed genes and provide a basis for classification of the immune response.
Methods:
The cDNA from 29 samples of aphthae and from 11 samples of normal mucosa from aphthae-free volunteers were hybridized on microarray membranes with 1176 genes.
Results:
Forty-one differentially expressed genes were identified, and a higher expression level of the Th1 gene cluster in RAU was found.
Conclusions:
Microarrays permitted us definition of the gene expression profile of the lesion and identify an increased Th1 activity in RAU lesions.