[Expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen of the intestinal mucosa during critical intraperitoneal infection]

To explore the expression and significance of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in intestinal epithelial cells during critical intraperitoneal infection.

A total of 60 SD rats were divided randomly to two groups: control group and infection group (30 rats in each group). Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) was done in the infection group, and laparotomy only in the control group. Immunohistochemical technique was applied for assaying PCNA index of the jejunum and ileum samples on postoperative day 1, day 2 and day 4.

The inflammatory reaction of small intestine mucous membrane was severer in the infection group than the control group. Compared with the control group, the PCNA indexes on day 1 and day 2 in the infection group were higher significantly (both P<0.01). The highest PCNA index was seen on postoperative day 1 in the infection group, then it lowered gradually (both P<0.01).

The PCNA index of intestinal epithelial cells is elevated during the early period of critical intraperitoneal infection. The findings indicate that PCNA index is related with the injury and repair of intestinal mucosa during critical intraperitoneal infection.