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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
09:11
In Vitro Apical-Out Enteroid Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Published on: June 8, 2022
Paneth cell hyperplasia and metaplasia in necrotizing enterocolitis
Patrycja J Puiman1, Nanda Burger-Van Paassen, Maaike W Schaart
1Department of Neonatology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam 3015 GJ, The Netherlands.
Pediatric Research
|March 5, 2011
Summary
Paneth cells in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) show hyperplasia and increased defensin production after recovery, suggesting a crucial role in NEC pathogenesis and defense against bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neonatal Research
- Immunology
Background:
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe intestinal disease in preterm infants.
- Paneth cell dysfunction is implicated in NEC pathogenesis.
- Understanding Paneth cell behavior is crucial for NEC management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Paneth cell presence, protein expression, and developmental changes in NEC.
- To analyze Paneth cell products and antimicrobial function in ileostomy outflow fluid.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry on intestinal tissue from NEC patients and controls.
- RT-PCR for Paneth cell protein mRNA levels.
- Quantification of Paneth cell products and in vitro antimicrobial assays on ileostomy fluid.
Main Results:
- Paneth cell abundance was similar in acute NEC and preterm controls.
- Paneth cell hyperplasia and increased human alpha-defensin 5 mRNA were observed post-NEC recovery.
- Metaplastic Paneth cells appeared in the colon of NEC patients.
- Ileostomy fluid demonstrated antimicrobial activity against bacteria.
Conclusions:
- Paneth cells and their products play a significant role throughout NEC.
- Post-NEC recovery involves Paneth cell hyperplasia and enhanced antimicrobial defenses.
- Metaplastic Paneth cells in the colon may represent an adaptive response.
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