Experimental postoperative ileus: is Th2 immune response involved?

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Gastroenterology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Postoperative ileus (POI) is a common gastrointestinal surgery complication with unclear pathogenesis.
• While Th1 immune cells are implicated, the role of Th2 cells in POI remains undefined.
• Reactive oxygen species (ROS) influence Th1/Th2 balance, suggesting a potential role for Th2 responses in POI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the involvement of Th2 immune responses in experimental postoperative ileus (POI).
• To explore the relationship between Th2 cells, mast cells, ROS, and signaling pathways in POI.

Main Methods:

• Intestinal transit tests and electron microscopy were used to assess POI.
• Cytokine, IgE, and ROS levels were measured.
• Flow cytometry, Western blot, and toluidine blue staining analyzed immune cells and transcriptional factors.

Main Results:

• POI exhibited increased Th2 cytokines and Th2 cells, alongside Th2-dependent B cell activation.
• Mast cell numbers, IgE, and histamine levels were elevated in POI mice.
• POI-induced ROS accumulation correlated with increased HMBGI, NF-κB, and p38 expression, linked to Th2 response.

Conclusions:

• Th2 immune responses contribute to mast cell activation in POI.
• ROS-mediated activation of NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways is associated with Th2 involvement in POI.