BACKGROUND: With a lifelong perspective, 12% of ulcerative colitis patients will need a colectomy. Further reconstruction via ileo-rectal anastomosis or pouch can be affected by patients' perspective of their quality of life after surgery.

AIM: To assess the function and quality of life after restorative procedures with either ileo-rectal anastomosis or ileal pouch-anal anastomosis in relation to the inflammatory activity on endoscopy and in biopsies.

METHOD: A total of 143 UC patients operated with subtotal colectomy and ileo-rectal anastomosis or pouches between 1992 and 2006 at Linköping University Hospital were invited to participate. Those who completed the validated questionnaires (Öresland score, SF-36, Short Health Scale) were offered an endoscopic evaluation including multiple biopsies. Associations between anorectal function and quality of life with type of restorative procedure and severity of endoscopic and histopathologic grading of inflammation were evaluated.

RESULTS: Some 77 (53.9%) eligible patients completed questionnaires, of these 68 (88.3%) underwent endoscopic evaluation after a median follow-up of 12.5 (range 3.5-19.4) years after restorative procedure. Patients with ileo-rectal anastomosis reported better overall Öresland score: median = 3 (IQR 2-5) for ileo-rectal anastomosis (n = 38) and 10 (IQR 5-15) for pouch patients (n = 39) (p < 0.001). Anorectal function (Öresland score) and endoscopic findings (Baron-Ginsberg score) were positively correlated in pouch patients (tau: 0.28, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION: Patients operated with ileo-rectal anastomosis reported better continence compared to pouches. Minor differences were noted regarding the quality of life. Ileo-rectal anastomosis is a valid option for properly selected ulcerative colitis patients if strict postoperative endoscopic surveillance is carried out.

Background: The first visible signs of Crohns disease (CD) are microscopic erosions over the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE). The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of human alpha-defensin 5 (HD5) on adherent-invasive Escherichia coli LF82 translocation and HD5 secretion after LF82 exposure in an in vitro model of human FAE and in human FAE ex vivo. Methods: An in vitro FAE-model was set up by the coculture of Raji B cells and Caco-2-cl1 cells. Ileal FAE from patients with CD and controls were mounted in Ussing chambers. The effect of HD5 on LF82 translocation was studied by LF82 exposure to the cells or tissues with or without incubation with HD5. The HD5 secretion was measured in human FAE exposed to LF82 or Salmonella typhimurium. The HD5 levels were evaluated by immunofluorescence, immunoblotting, and ELISA. Results: There was an increased LF82 translocation across the FAE-model compared with Caco-2-cl1 (P < 0.05). Incubation of cell/tissues with HD5 before LF82 exposure reduced bacterial passage in both models. Human FAE showed increased LF82 translocation in CD compared with controls and attenuated passage after incubation with sublethal HD5 in both CD and controls (P < 0.05). LF82 exposure resulted in a lower HD5 secretion in CD FAE compared with controls (P < 0.05), whereas Salmonella exposure caused equal secretion on CD and controls. There were significantly lower HD5 levels in CD tissues compared with controls. Conclusions: Sublethal HD5 reduces the ability of LF82 to translocate through FAE. The HD5 is secreted less in CD in response to LF82, despite a normal response to Salmonella. This further implicates the integrated role of antimicrobial factors and barrier function in CD pathogenesis.

Objective. In Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), elevated cytokines are responsible for disturbed intestinal transport and barrier function. The mechanisms of cytokine action have usually been studied in cell culture models only; therefore the aim of this study was to establish an in vitro model based on native intestine to analyze distinct cytokine effects on barrier function, mucosal structure, and inherent regulatory mechanisms. Material and methods. Rat colon was exposed to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and interferon gamma (IFN gamma) in Ussing chambers. Transepithelial resistance (R-t) and H-3-mannitol fluxes were measured for characterization of the paracellular pathway. Transcellular transport was analyzed by horseradish peroxidase (HRP) flux measurements. Expression and distribution of tight junction proteins were characterized in immunoblots and by means of confocal laser-scanning microscopy (LSM). Results. Colonic viability could be preserved for 20 h in a specialized in vitro set-up. This was sufficient to alter mucosal architecture with crypt surface reduction. R-t was decreased (101 +/- 10 versus 189 +/- 10 Omega . cm(2)) with a parallel increase in mannitol permeability after cytokine exposure. Tight junction proteins claudin-1, -5, -7, and occludin decreased (45 +/- 10%, 16 +/- 7%, 42 +/- 8%, and 42 +/- 13% of controls, respectively), while claudin- 2 increased to 208 +/- 32%. Occludin and claudin- 1 translocated from the plasma membrane to the cytoplasm. HRP flux increased from 0.73 +/- 0.09 to 8.55 +/- 2.92 pmol . h(-1) . cm(-2). Conclusions. A new experimental IBD model with native colon in vitro is presented. One-day exposure to TNFa and IFNg alters mucosal morphology and impairs epithelial barrier function by up-regulation of the paracellular pore-former claudin-2 and down-regulation of the barrier-builders claudin-1, -5, and -7. These alterations resemble changes seen in IBD and thus underline their prominent role in IBD pathogenicity.

[No abstract available]

INTRODUCTION:

Ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the standard procedure for reconstruction after colectomy for ulcerative colitis (UC). However, ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) as an alternative has, recently experienced a revival. This study from a single center compares the clinical outcomes of these procedures.

METHODS:

From 1992 to 2006, 253 patients consecutively underwent either IRA (n=105) or IPAA (n=148). Selection to either procedure was determined on the basis of rectal inflammation, presence of dysplasia/cancer or patient preferences. Patient-records were retrospectively evaluated. Mean follow-up time was 5.4 and 6.3 years respectively.

RESULTS:

Major postoperative complications occurred in 12.4% of patients after IRA and in 12.8% after IPAA (ns). Complications of any kind after IRA or IPAA, even including subsequent stoma-closure, occurred in 23.8% and 39.9% respectively (p<0.01). Estimated cumulative failure rates after 5 and 10 years were 10.1% and 24.1% for IRA and 6.1% and 18.6% for IPAA respectively (ns). The most common cause for failure was intractable proctitis (4.8%) and unspecified dysfunction (4.8%) respectively. At follow-up 76.9% of patients with IRA had proctitis and 34.1% with IPAA had pouchitis. Estimated cumulative cancer-risk after 10, 20 and 25 year duration of disease was 0.0%, 2.1% and 8.7% for IRA. Figures for IPAA were 0.7%, 1.8% and 1.8% (ns).

CONCLUSION:

Failure-rates did not significantly differ between patients operated with IRA or IPAA. Patients operated with IPAA had a higher cumulative number of postoperative complications. The high long-term cancer-risk after IRA indicates that this procedure should be an interim solution in younger patients.

Surgery continues to play an important role in the therapeutic arsenal in ulcerative colitis. In acute colitis, close collaboration between the gastroenterologist and the surgeon is pertinent. Absolute indications for surgery include toxic megacolon, perforation, and severe colorectal bleeding. In addition, surgery should always be considered upon deterioration during medical therapy. The recommended operation in acute colitis is colectomy and ileostomy, with the rectum left in situ; reconstruction is not an option in the acute setting. In chronic continuous colitis, often with long-term steroid therapy, healing conditions are poor. A staged procedure is preferred also in these cases. In cases with dysplasia, surgery should be done after verifying the dysplasia since these patients often have little symptoms from their colitis. The proctocolectomy should in these cases include total mesorectal excision. Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the standard bowel reconstruction in ulcerative colitis. The various options should, however, always be thoroughly discussed, considering the pros and cons in each individual patient, before a choice is made. Ileorectal anastomosis is a temporary alternative in select cases (e.g. young women not having had children). Reconstructive surgery is best done approximately 6 months after primary surgery. Surgery for ulcerative colitis should be seen as complementary to medical treatment and may prevent complications, improve the patients' quality of life and occasionally be life-saving. Correct assessment and optimised medical treatment are prerequisites for surgery on accurate indications and good surgical results. Therefore, close interactions between gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons are mandatory for optimal patient outcome.

Background Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a complex disorder, in which multiple mechanisms underlie symptom generation, including impaired duodenal barrier function. Moreover, an altered duodenal bile salt pool was recently discovered in patients with FD. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between bile salts, bacterial translocation, and duodenal mucosal permeability in FD. Methods Duodenal biopsies from patients with FD and healthy volunteers (HV) were mounted in Ussing chambers to measure mucosal resistance and bacterial passage in the absence and presence of fluorescein-conjugated Escherichia coli and glyco-ursodeoxycholic acid (GUDCA) exposure. In parallel, duodenal fluid aspirates were collected from patients and bile salts were analyzed. Key results The transepithelial electrical resistance of duodenal biopsies from patients was lower compared with HV (21.4 +/- 1.3 omega.cm(2) vs. 24.4 +/- 1.2 omega.cm(2); P = .02; N = 21). The ratio of glyco-cholic and glyco-chenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA) to tauro- and GUDCA correlated positively with transepithelial electrical resistance in patients. Glyco-ursodeoxycholic acid slightly altered the mucosal resistance, resulting in similar values between patient and healthy biopsies (22.1 +/- 1.0 omega.cm(2) vs. 23.0 +/- 1.0 omega.cm(2); P = .5). Bacterial passage after 120 minutes was lower for patient than for healthy biopsies (0.0 [0.0-681.8] vs. 1684.0 [0.0-4773.0] E coli units; P = .02). Glyco-ursodeoxycholic acid increased bacterial passage in patient biopsies (102.1 [0.0-733.0] vs. 638.9 [280.6-2124.0] E coli units; P = .009). No correlation was found between mucosal resistance and bacterial passage. Conclusions amp; inferences Patients with FD displayed decreased duodenal mucosal resistance associated with bile salts, however, not associated with bacterial passage in vitro. In addition, the hydrophilic bile salt glyco-ursodeoxycholic acid abolished differences in mucosal resistance and bacterial passage between patient and control group.

HIV transmission via genital and colorectal mucosa are the most common routes of dissemination. Here, we explored the effects of free and complement-opsonized HIV on colorectal tissue. Initially, there was higher antiviral responses in the free HIV compared to complementopsonized virus. The mucosal transcriptional response at 24 hr revealed the involvement of activated T cells, which was mirrored in cellular responses observed at 96 hr in isolated mucosal T cells. Further, HIV exposure led to skewing of T cell phenotypes predominantly to inflammatory CD4+ T cells, that is Th17 and Th1Th17 subsets. Of note, HIV exposure created an environment that altered the CD8+ T cell phenotype, for example expression of regulatory factors, especially when the virions were opsonized with complement factors. Our findings suggest that HIV-opsonization alters the activation and signaling pathways in the colorectal mucosa, which promotes viral establishment by creating an environment that stimulates mucosal T cell activation and inflammatory Th cells.

Enteric glial cells (EGC) are known to regulate gastrointestinal functions; however, their role in Crohns disease (CD) is elusive. Microscopic erosions over the ileal Peyers patches are early signs of CD. The aim of this work was to assess the localization of EGC in the follicle and interfollicular region of the Peyers patches and in the lamina propria and study the effects of EGC mediators on barrier function in CD patients and non-inflammatory bowel disease (non-IBD) controls. EGC markers, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and S100 calcium-binding protein β (S100β) were quantified by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Both markers showed significantly more EGC in the Peyers patches and lamina propria of CD patients compared to the non-IBD controls. In CD patients there were significantly more EGC in Peyers patches compared to lamina propria, while the opposite pattern was seen in controls. Barrier function studies using Ussing chambers showed increased paracellular permeability by EGC mediators in CD patients, whereas permeability decreased by the mediators in controls. We show the accumulation of EGC in Peyers patches of CD patients. Moreover, EGC mediators induced barrier dysfunction in CD patients. Thus, EGC might have harmful impacts on ongoing inflammation and contribute to the pathophysiology of the disease.

BACKGROUND: Stress has well-established deleterious effects on intestinal barrier function and stressful life events are known to contribute to the development and perpetuation of inflammatory bowel diseases. Mast cells play a pivotal role in pathogenesis of stressinduced barrier dysfunction due to the release of barrier-disruptive content. Conversely, they also have recently been suggested to contribute to barrier protective properties of probiotics, through the release of 15d-PGJ2 and enhanced epithelial PPAR-γ activity. However, mechanisms remain to be elucidated.

AIM: To study if probiotics can modulate mast cell mediator release, resulting in amelioration of stress-induced barrier dysfunction in vitro.

METHODS: Confluent monolayers of the human colon-derived T84 epithelial cell line were co-cultured with rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 mast cells and pretreated with probiotics (125x10⁴ CFU/ml, 1hr) before addition of 100nM CRF to activate mast cells. Release of beta hexosaminidase, TNF-α and 15d-PGJ₂ from mast cells was determined. Transepithelial resistance (TER), and permeability to microspheres (0.2μm) were measured over a 24h period. To determine dependence of PPAR-γ, monolayers were incubated with the specific PPAR-γ antagonist T0070907 before treatment with probiotics.

RESULTS: CRF-induced activation of mast cells resulted in decreased TERs and increased permeability to microspheres. Both pretreatment with probiotics and filter-sterilized probiotic supernatant resulted in lower levels of mast cell-released beta hexosaminidase and TNF-α, and increased 15d-PGJ₂. Furthermore, probiotics ameliorated epithelial barrier dysfunction in monolayers exposed to CRF-activated mast cells. However, when T84 monolayers were exposed to conditioned medium of CRF-activated mast cells or were incubated with T0070907, probiotics showed little or no effect.

CONCLUSIONS: Probiotics modulate mast cell mediator release to a more barrier protective profile, resulting in amelioration of stress-induced epithelial barrier dysfunction, which is putatively mediated by a PPAR-γ dependent pathway.

Objective. The intestinal microbiota plays a substantial role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (FP) is underrepresented in IBD patients and have been suggested to have anti-inflammatory effects in mice. Increased intestinal permeability is common in IBD but the relationship between FP and intestinal barrier function has not been investigated. Our aim was to study treatment with FP supernatant on intestinal barrier function in a dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) colitis mice model. Material and methods. C57BL/6 mice received 3% DSS in tap water ad libitum during five days to induce colitis. From day 3 the mice received a daily gavage with FP supernatant or broth during seven days. Ileum and colon were mounted in Ussing chambers for permeability studies with Cr-51-EDTA and Escherichia coli K-12. Colon was saved for Western blot analyses of tight junction proteins. Results. DSS-treated mice showed significant weight loss and colon shortening. Gavage with FP supernatant resulted in a quicker recovery after DSS treatment and less extensive colonic shortening. Ileal mucosa of DSS mice showed a significant increase in Cr-51-EDTA-passage compared to controls. Cr-51-EDTA passage was significantly decreased in mice receiving FP supernatant. No significant differences were observed in passage of E. coli K12. Western blots showed a trend to increased claudin-1 and claudin-2 expressions in DSS mice. Conclusions. Supernatant of FP enhances the intestinal barrier function by affecting paracellular permeability, and may thereby attenuate the severity of DSS-induced colitis in mice. These findings suggest a potential role of FP in the treatment of IBD.

Background

Mast cells (MCs) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) have been proposed as regulators of the intestinal barrier and inflammation. Our aim was to map the distribution in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and murine colitis.

Methods

MCs, VIP, and VIP‐receptors (VPACs) were quantified by immunofluorescence and enzyme‐immunoassay (EIA) in ileal tissues (villus epithelium (VE) and adjacent VE, ie, VE next to the follicle‐associated epithelium, (FAE)) from Crohn's disease (CD; n = 16) and non‐IBD patients, and in colonic specimens of ulcerative colitis (UC; n = 12) and healthy controls (HCs). In addition, VIP levels were measured in plasma from HCs, non‐IBD, and IBD in remission (CD n = 30; UC n = 30). Colon, ileum, and plasma from mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis and control mice were analyzed likewise.

Key Results

FAE‐adjacent VE in ileum of CD possessed more MCs (P < 0.05) and MCs expressing VPAC1 (P < 0.05), but not VPAC2, compared to controls. Both adjacent and regular VE of CD had more MCs co‐localizing/in close proximity to VIP (P < 0.05). In UC colon, more MCs (P < 0.0005), MCs close to VIP (P < 0.0005), and MCs expressing VPAC1 (P < 0.05) were found compared to controls. VIP levels were elevated in plasma from CD and UC compared to controls (P < 0.0005). Colon of DSS mice showed more MCs and MCs close to VIP (P < 0.05) compared to control mice. In vitro experiments revealed MCs expressing VPACs and internalized VIP after 120 minutes of VIP‐stimulation.

Conclusions and Inferences

Communication between MCs and VIP is upregulated during IBD and mice colitis. In CD patients, the epithelium next to FAE seems to be more involved than the surrounding VE, suggesting increased MC‐VIP‐interactions in this intestinal region.

Crohn disease (CD) is a multifactorial disease in which an abnormal immune response in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract leads to chronic inflammation. The small intestine, particularly the ileum, of patients with CD is colonized by adherent-invasive E. coil (AIEC) a pathogenic group of E. coil able to adhere to and invade intestinal epithelial cells. As the earliest inflammatory lesions are microscopic erosions of the epithelium lining the Peyers patches (PPs), we investigated the ability of AIEC bacteria to interact with PPs and the virulence factors involved. We found that AIEC bacteria could interact with mouse and human PPs via long polar fimbriae (LPF). An LPF-negative AIEC mutant was highly impaired in its ability to interact with mouse and human PPs and to translocate across monolayers of M cells, specialized epithelial cells at the surface of PPs. The prevalence of AIEC strains harboring the lpf operon was markedly higher in CD patients compared with controls. In addition, increased numbers of AIEC, but not LPF-deficient AIEC, bacteria were found interacting with PPs from Nod2(-/-) mice compared with WT mice. In conclusion, we have identified LPF as a key factor for AIEC to target PPs. This could be the missing link between AIEC colonization and the presence of early lesions in the PPs of CD patients.

Increased activity of secretory phospholipases A(2) (sPLA(2)) type-II was previously observed in ileum of Crohns disease (CD). Our aims were to explore the involvement of calcium-independent (i)PLA(2 beta) in the release of sPLA(2)s from the human mast cell (MC) line (HMC-1) and investigate expressions of cytosolic (c)PLA(2) alpha, iPLA(2)beta, sPLA(2)-IIA and sPLA(2)-V in MCs of CD ileum. The release of sPLA(2) was investigated in HMC-1 by immunocytochemistry and ELISA. The expression intensities of PLA(2)s in mucosal MCs, and the proportion of PLA(2)-positive MCs, were investigated in normal ileum and in ileum from patients with CD by immunohistochemistry. The calcium ionophore-stimulated release of sPLA(2)-IIA and sPLA(2)-V from HMC-1 was reduced by the iPLA(2)-inhibitor bromoenol lactone. All four PLA(2)s were detectable in mucosal MCs, both in normal ileum and in CD, but the proportion of iPLA(2)beta-containing mucosal MCs and the expression intensity of sPLA(2)-IIA was increased in CD. Results indicate that iPLA(2)beta is involved in the secretion of sPLA(2)s from HMC-1, and suggest that iPLA(2)beta-mediated release of sPLA(2) from intestinal MCs may contribute to CD pathophysiology. Ex vivo studies on isolated mucosal mast cells are however needed to clarify the precise role of MC PLA(2)s in the inflammatory processes of CD.

Background and aims: Activation of protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) may stimulate various events of importance in inflammatory processes, including release of inflammatory mast cell mediators. PAR-2 is frequently up-regulated during inflammatory conditions, but it is not known if the expression is altered in Crohns disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ileal mucosal PAR-2 expression in Crohns ileitis, with particular emphasis on the expression in ileal mucosal mast cells. Methods: Surgical specimens from the distal ileum were collected from patients with Crohns ileitis and patients with colonic cancer as controls. The overall expression of PAR-2 was investigated by Western blot, and the presence of PAR-2 expressing mucosal mast cells by immunohistochemistry and cell counting. The effect of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) on the PAR-2 expression in a human mast cell tine (HMC-1) was investigated by RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry. Results: In Crohns specimens, the fraction of PAR-2-expressing mucosal. mast cells was increased about 2.5 times (P andlt; 0.001; n = 14) compared with specimens from control patients (n = 6). No difference was found between inflamed (n = 6) and uninflamed Crohns specimens (P andgt; 0.05; n = 8). Exposure to TNF-alpha for 48 h up-regulated PAR-2 mRNA and protein expression in the HMC-1 cell line. Conclusion: PAR-2 is up-regulated on ileal mucosal mast cells in Crohns ileitis, possibly due to the action of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-alpha. This may contribute to perpetuating the inflammatory process in the intestinal mucosa in Crohns ileitis.

Background and aims: Myofibroblast hyperplasia contributes to muscularis mucosae thickening and stricture formation in Crohns disease (CD). Protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) and cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) are known regulators of cell growth, but their significance in intestinal myofibroblast proliferation remain to be elucidated. The principle aims of the present study were to investigate if PAR-2 is expressed in the expanded muscularis mucosa in ileal CD specimens, if inflammatory cytokines may stimulate PAR-2 expression in intestinal myofibroblasts, and if PAR-2 and cPLA(2). may regulate intestinal myofibroblast growth.

Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used for detection of PAR-2 in ileal CD specimens. Studies on PAR-2 expression, PLA(2) activation and cell growth were performed in a human intestinal myofibroblast cell tine, CCD-18Co. PAR-2 expression was investigated by RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry. PLA(2) activity was analyzed by quantification of released C-14-arachidonic acid (C-14-AA). Cell growth was examined by H-3-thymidine incorporation and cell counting.

Results: The thickened muscularis mucosae of the CD specimens showed strong PAR-2 expression. In cultured myofibroblasts, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) up-regulated PAR-2 mRNA and protein, and potentiated PAR-2-stimutated C-14-AA release by two known PAR-2 activators, trypsin and SLIGRL-NH2. The release of C-14-AA was dependent on cPLA(2). Trypsin stimulated the proliferation of serum-starved cells, and inhibition of cPLA(2) reduced normal cell growth and abolished the growth-promoting effect of trypsin.

Conclusions: The results suggest that PAR-2-mediated cPLA(2) activation might be of importance in intestinal myofibroblast proliferation. The results also point to the possibility that PAR-2 upregulation by inflammatory cytokines, like TNF-alpha, may modulate this effect.

Background: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) exerts anti-inflammatory effects and is therefore a potential target in ulcerative colitis (UC). A novel PPARγ agonist (AS002) developed for local action was evaluated ex vivo in biopsies from UC patients and in vivo in mice with low-grade dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)- and trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis.Methods: Colonic biopsies from UC patients (n = 18) and healthy controls (n = 6) were incubated with AS002 or rosiglitazone (positive control) to measure mRNA expression of the PPARγ-responsive gene ADIPOPHILIN and protein levels of UC-related cytokines (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). AS002 absorption was determined in the colonic mucosa of UC patients. DSS-colitis mice received PPARγ agonists or vehicle daily by intrarectal administration starting 2 days before induction of colitis (preventive) or from days 3 to 8 (curative). Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and cytokine levels in colonic mucosa were determined. In addition, AS002 effects were studied in TNBS colitis.Results: AS002 displayed an absorption pattern of a lipophilic drug totally metabolized in the mucosa. AS002 and rosiglitazone increased ADIPOPHILIN mRNA expression (3-fold) and decreased TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-13 levels in human UC biopsies. In DSS, in both preventive and curative treatment and in TNBS colitis, AS002 protected against macroscopic and histological damage and lowered MPO and TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-13 levels.Conclusions: AS002 triggers anti-inflammatory PPARγ activity in the human colonic mucosa of UC patients and prevents and reverses colitis in mice. Our data suggest that AS002 has potential for topical maintenance treatment of UC, which warrants further studies in vivo in patients.

The study aimed at investigating the intestinal barrier in Crohn's disease, with special reference to epithelial responses to luminal stimuli, and to permeation of proteins.

Ileal mucosa from patients undergoing intestinal resection was studied in vitro in Ussing chambers. Intestinal permeability was also studied in vivo, by oral load of lactulose and mannitol.

The Ussing chamber was evaluated for intestinal barrier studies. Normal ileal mucosa from patients with colon cancer was subjected to long-term experiments, and investigated in regard to various viability parameters. Mucosal permeability, structural integrity and metabolism were maintained for 90 minutes, and specimens with poor viability were detected by a low transepithelial potential difference. In rat ileal mucosa, luminal sodium caprate, a constituent of milk fat, induced dilatation of the tight junctions as visualised by electron microscopy, and a reversible increase in tight junction permeability. The findings indicate that the Ussing chamber is suitable for studies of the intestinal barrier, including tight junction regulation, provided that experiments are monitored by measurements of transepithelial potential difference and are limited in time.

In vitro studies of human ileal mucosa showed that luminal sodium caprate caused uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation, as shown by a fall in epithelial ATP contents, and mitochondrial swelling seen by electron microscopy, paralleled by an increased permeability. Non-inflamed Crohn's disease specimens had an exaggerated permeability increase and an augmented fall in transepithelial electrical resistance. Confocal microscopy revealed rearrangements of perijunctional filamentous actin, causing dilatation of the tight junctions. In Crohn's disease, a more pronounced reorganisation of actin filaments was seen, suggesting the tight junctions to be hyperreactive to luminal stimuli due to a disturbed cytoskeletal regulation.

In vivo, an increased intestinal permeability was induced by ingestion of acetylsalicylic acid. One third of both Crohn's disease patients and their first-degree relatives showed an augmented permeability increase, whereas spouses were equal to controls, suggesting a genetically determined vulnerability of the intestinal barrier.

In vitro, non-inflamed ileum from Crohn's disease patients had an increased permeation of ovalbumin. Confocal microscopy suggested this to be caused by an augmented transcytosis, a previously unrecognised defect in the epithelial barrier in Crohn's disease, with a subsequent exposure of antigenic proteins to the subepithelial immunocytes.

The Crohn's disease patients without residual inflammation after surgery were followed with endoscopy within twelve months, and all revealed recurrent ileal inflammation.

The study indicates a perturbed intestinal barrier in Crohn's disease, possibly genetically determined. The impaired barrier function is demonstrated both by an augmented epithelial transcytosis and by hyperreactive tight junctions. The epithelial barrier dysfunction precedes the recurrent intestinal inflammation in ileal Crohn's disease. The findings suggest an interplay between an impaired epithelial barrier and luminal factors in the initiation of intestinal inflammation.

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Background and objective: Different surgical methods, anesthesia, and analgesia are known to modify the surgical stress response, especially in patients with malignancy. We compared the impact of patient-controlled intravenous (PCA) versus epidural analgesia (EDA) on tumor-related mucosal immune response in patients undergoing open or laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer. Methods: In a University Hospital subgroup (n = 43) of a larger cohort (n = 235) of patients undergoing open or laparoscopic surgery for colorectal carcinoma randomized to PCA or EDA, colorectal tissues were stained for interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and mast cell tryptase and then examined by immunofluorescence microscopy. Results: More IL-10+-cells were found in patients undergoing open compared to laparoscopic surgery in the PCA (P &lt; 0.05) and EDA group (P &lt; 0.0005), respectively, and numbers of TNF+-cells were higher in the open surgery group who received PCA (P &lt; 0.05). No differences in IL-10 or TNF expressions were detected between EDA/PCA within the open or laparoscopic surgery groups, respectively. Fewer mast cells were observed in patients undergoing laparoscopic compared to open surgery combined with PCA (P &lt; 0.05). Within the open surgery group, EDA resulted in fewer mucosal mast cells compared to the PCA group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: The surgical method, rather than type of analgesia, may have higher impact on peri-operative inflammation. Laparoscopic surgery when combined with EDA for colorectal cancer caused a decrease in the TNF and IL-10 expression and mast cells. EDA seems to have an anti-inflammatory effect on cancer-related inflammation during open surgery.

Introduction Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, can be challenging to diagnose, and treatment outcomes are difficult to predict. In the NORDTREAT cohort study, a Nordic prospective multicentre study, we aim to identify novel molecular biomarkers of diagnostic value by assessing the diagnostic test accuracy (cross-sectionally), as well as the prognostic utility when used as prognostic markers in the long-term (cohort study). In the diagnostic test accuracy study, the primary outcome is a successful diagnosis using one or more novel index tests at baseline compared with the ECCO criteria as the reference standard. The composite outcome of the prognostic utility study is 'severe IBD' within 52 weeks from inclusion, defined as one or more of the following three events: IBD-related surgery, IBD-related hospitalisation or IBD-related death. Methods and analysis We aim to recruit 800 patients referred on suspicion of IBD to this longitudinal observational study, a collaboration between 11 inclusion sites in Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Inclusion will occur from February 2022 until December 2023 with screening and baseline visits for all participants and three outcome visits at weeks 12, 26 and 52 after baseline for IBD-diagnosed patients. Biological material (blood, faeces, biopsies, urine and hair), clinical data and lifestyle information will be collected during these scheduled visits. Ethics and dissemination This study will explore novel biomarkers to improve diagnostic accuracy and prediction of disease progression, thereby improving medical therapy and the quality of life for patients with IBD. The study is approved by the Ethics Committee (DK: S-20200051, v1.4, 16.10.2021; IS: VSNb2021070006/03.01, NO: 193064; SE: DNR 2021-05090) and the Danish Data Protecting Agency (20/54594). Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, patient associations and presentations at international conferences.

Background/Aim: High protein diets are the most effective to stimulate cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) release; however, which proteins are the most potent is not known. Here, the effects of specific dietary proteins on intestinal CCK and GLP-1 release were examined. Methods: Duodenal biopsies of 10 healthy male subjects and 10 male rats were taken and placed in an Ussing chamber system. The biopsies were exposed on the luminal side to buffer, egg protein, codfish protein, ovomucoid, pea protein, and wheat protein. After an exposure time of 2 h, samples were taken from the serosal side. Results: Pea protein and wheat protein increased CCK and GLP-1 release in human duodenal tissue, while codfish protein only increased CCK release. No elevated levels of CCK and GLP-1 were found after exposure of rat tissue to different proteins. Conclusion: Pea and wheat protein are the most potent stimulators of CCK and GLP-1 release in human duodenal tissue, and may therefore be good dietary additives in weight management.

Background and aims: The importance of efficient and safe treatment of Crohns disease is highlighted by its chronicity. Both medical and surgical treatments have shown good results in the symptomatic control of limited ileocaecal Crohns disease. The aim of this study was to compare medical treatment with surgical treatment of ileocaecal Crohns disease. Methods: Thirty-six patients from seven hospitals with primary ileocaecal Crohns disease were randomized to either medical or surgical treatment. The medical treatment was induction of remission with budesonide and thereafter maintenance treatment with azathioprine. The surgical treatment was open ileocaecal resection. Crohns disease activity index over time, expressed as area under the curve at 1, 3 and 5 years, was the primary endpoint. Subjective health measured with the 36-item Short Form Survey Instrument (SF36) and a visual analogue scale (VAS) were secondary endpoints. Results: There were no differences between the treatment groups in Crohns disease activity index over time. General health, measured as SF36 score, was higher in patients receiving surgical treatment than in those receiving medical treatment at 1 year, but there was no corresponding difference in VAS. Due to the slow inclusion rate and changes in clinical practice, the study was t = erminated prematurely. Conclusion: The study ended up being underpowered and should be interpreted with caution, but there was no clinically significant difference between the two treatment arms. Further studies are needed to address this important clinical question.

Background Psychological stress and increased permeability are implicated as contributing factors in the initiation and worsening of gastrointestinal diseases. A link between stress and intestinal permeability has been shown in animal models as well as in human small intestine, but stress effects on the human colorectal mucosal barrier has not been reported. Objective To investigate the potential effects of acute psychological stress on colorectal mucosal barrier function and to explore stress-induced molecular events in the rectal mucosa under healthy conditions. Methods Endoscopic biopsies were taken from the rectosigmoid region of healthy volunteers, who had been subjected to dichotomous listening stress and after a control session, respectively. Paracellular and transcellular permeability were assessed in modified Ussing chambers. RNA expression (microarray technology confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction) and biological pathway analysis were used to investigate the local mucosal response to acute stress. Results Dichotomous listening stress induced a subjective and objective stress response, and significantly increased paracellular but not transcellular permeability. We also identified a stress-induced reduction in RNA expression of genes related to immune cell activation and maturation (CR2, CD20, TCLA1, BANK1, CD22, FDCSP), signaling molecules of homing of immune cells to the gut (chemokines: CCL21, CXCL13, and CCL19, and receptors: CCR7, CXCR5), and innate immunity (DUOX2). Eight of the 10 top down-regulated genes are directly involved in B cell activation, signaling and migration. The systemic stress response correlated positively with paracellular permeability and negatively with DUOX2 expression. Conclusion Dichotomous listening stress increases paracellular permeability and modulates immune cell activity in the rectal mucosa. Further studies are warranted to identify the primary mechanisms of stress-mediated reduction of mucosal defensive activity and barrier dysfunction, and their potential implications for gastrointestinal disorders.

The aim of this study was to identify cell adhesion molecules that could serve as targets of the human follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) overlying Peyer's patches and to assess nanoparticle uptake levels across this epithelium. We first studied the expression of the mouse M-cell marker β1- integrin and used a model of human FAE derived from intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells and Raji B-cells to identify additional potential targets by cDNA array. The protein expression of potential targets in the model FAE and in human ileal FAE tissues was quantified by immunofluorescence. Integrin targeting was studied by investigating the transport of Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-coated (integrin-binding), Arg-Gly-Glu (RGE)-coated (nonintegrin-binding), and uncoated nanoparticles across ileal specimens mounted in Ussing chambers. Both β1- integrin and the cell adhesion molecule CD9 were more abundantly expressed in the model and human FAE compared with the Caco-2 control cells or villus epithelium (VE). Uncoated nanoparticles were not taken up across either FAE or VE. General integrin targeting with RGD improved the nanoparticle transport dramatically across the FAE and to a lower extent across the VE. Compared with RGE, RGD improved transport 4-fold across the FAE. There was no difference in the transport of RGD- and RGE-coated nanoparticles across the VE. In conclusion, β1-integrin and CD9 were identified as targets in human FAE. The difference in RGD- and RGE-mediated transport across the FAE, but not the VE, suggests that a specific integrin interaction was the dominating mechanism for improved nanoparticle uptake across the FAE., whereas charge interaction contributed substantially to the improved VE uptake. Copyright © 2006 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

Clinical observations suggest that the sites of initial inflammation in ileal Crohn's disease (CD) are the lymphoid follicles, where the aphtoid lesions originate from small erosions of the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE). Lymphoid follicles and Peyer's patches (PPs) consist of a number of B-cell follicles with intervening T cell areas. The T cell follicular area is also populated by dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages. A single layer of epithelial cells covering each follicle forms a dome between the surrounding villi. This FAE differs from normal villus epithelium in several ways that make the epithelial cells of the FAE more exposed to the luminal contents, more accessible to antigens, and in closer contact with the immune system. The most prominent feature is the presence of specialized M cells, which are optimized for antigen adherence and transport. M cells play an important role in the surveillance of the intestinal lumen, but also provide a route of entry for various pathogens. In this article we review the current knowledge on the epithelial phenotype of the human FAE, and changes of the FAE and M cells in intestinal inflammation, leading to a hypothesis of the role of the FAE and M cells in the pathogenesis of CD.

Gut bacteria provide benefits to the host and have been implicated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), where adherent-invasive E. coli (AIEC) pathobionts (e.g., strain LF82) are associated with Crohn's disease. E. coli-LF82 causes fragmentation of the epithelial mitochondrial network, leading to increased epithelial permeability. We hypothesized that butyrate would limit the epithelial mitochondrial disruption caused by E. coli-LF82. Human colonic organoids and the T84 epithelial cell line infected with E. coli-LF82 (MOI = 100, 4 h) showed a significant increase in mitochondrial network fission that was reduced by butyrate (10 mM) co-treatment. Butyrate reduced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential caused by E. coli-LF82 and increased expression of PGC-1$\alpha $alpha mRNA, the master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis. Metabolomics revealed that butyrate significantly altered E. coli-LF82 central carbon metabolism leading to diminished glucose uptake and increased succinate secretion. Correlating with preservation of mitochondrial network form/function, butyrate reduced E. coli-LF82 transcytosis across T84-cell monolayers. The use of the G-protein inhibitor, pertussis toxin, implicated GPCR signaling as critical to the effect of butyrate, and the free fatty acid receptor three (FFAR3, GPR41) agonist, AR420626, reproduced butyrate's effect in terms of ameliorating the loss of barrier function and reducing the mitochondrial fragmentation observed in E. coli-LF82 infected T84-cells and organoids. These data indicate that butyrate helps maintain epithelial mitochondrial form/function when challenged by E. coli-LF82 and that this occurs, at least in part, via FFAR3. Thus, loss of butyrate-producing bacteria in IBD in the context of pathobionts would contribute to loss of epithelial mitochondrial and barrier functions that could evoke disease and/or exaggerate a low-grade inflammation.

Background: Improved mucosal immune profiling in active and quiescent colonic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is needed to develop therapeutic options for treating and preventing flares. This study therefore aimed to provide a comprehensive mucosal characterization with emphasis on immunological host response of patients with active ulcerative colitis (UC active), UC during remission (UC remission) and active colonic Crohns disease (CD active). Methods: Colonic biopsies from 47 study subjects were collected for gene expression and pathway analyses using the NanoString host-response panel, including 776 genes and 56 immune-related pathways. Results: The majority of mucosal gene expression and signaling pathway scores were increased in active IBD (n=27) compared to healthy subjects (n=10). However, both active IBD and UC remission (n=10) demonstrated decreased gene expression and signaling pathway scores related to autophagy, alpha kinase-1 and IL-17 signaling pathways compared to healthy subjects. Further, UC remission was characterized by decreased scores of several signaling pathways linked to homeostasis along with increased mononuclear cell migration pathway score as compared to healthy subjects. No major differences in the colonic mucosal gene expression between CD active (n=7) and UC (n=20) active were observed. Conclusion: This study indicates that autophagy, alpha kinase-1 and IL-17 signaling pathways are persistently downregulated in UC irrespective of disease activity. Further, UC patients in remission present a unique mucosal environment, potentially preventing patients from reaching and sustaining true homeostasis. These findings may enable better comprehension of the remitting and relapsing pattern of colonic IBD and guide future treatment and prevention of flares.

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Background: Success in personalized medicine in complex disease is critically dependent on biomarker discovery. We profiled serum proteins using a novel proximity extension assay [PEA] to identify diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Methods: We conducted a prospective case-control study in an inception cohort of 552 patients [328 IBD, 224 non-IBD], profiling proteins recruited across six centres. Treatment escalation was characterized by the need for biological agents or surgery after initial disease remission. Nested leave-one-out cross-validation was used to examine the performance of diagnostic and prognostic proteins. Results: A total of 66 serum proteins differentiated IBD from symptomatic non-IBD controls, including matrix metallopeptidase-12 [MMP-12; Holm-adjusted p=4.1x10(-23)] and oncostatin-M [OSM; p=3.7x10(-16)]. Nine of these proteins are associated with cis-germline variation [59 independent single nucleotide polymorphisms]. Fifteen proteins, all members of tumour necrosis factor-independent pathways including interleukin-1 (IL-1) and OSM, predicted escalation, over a median follow-up of 518 [interquartile range 224-756] days. Nested cross-validation of the entire data set allowed characterization of five-protein models [96% comprising five core proteins ITGAV, EpCAM, IL18, SLAMF7 and IL8], which define a high-risk subgroup in IBD [hazard ratio 3.90, confidence interval: 2.43-6.26], or allowed distinct two- and three-protein models for ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease respectively. Conclusion: We have characterized a simple oligo-protein panel that has the potential to identify IBD from symptomatic controls and to predict future disease course. Further prospective work is required to validate our findings.

Background Epigenetic alterations may provide valuable insights into gene-environment interactions in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Methods Genome-wide methylation was measured from peripheral blood using the Illumina 450k platform in a case-control study in an inception cohort (295 controls, 154 Crohns disease [CD], 161 ulcerative colitis [UC], 28 IBD unclassified [IBD-U)] with covariates of age, sex and cell counts, deconvoluted by the Houseman method. Genotyping was performed using Illumina HumanOmniExpressExome-8 BeadChips and gene expression using the Ion AmpliSeq Human Gene Expression Core Panel. Treatment escalation was characterized by the need for biological agents or surgery after initial disease remission. Results A total of 137 differentially methylated positions [DMPs] were identified in IBD, including VMP1/MIR21 [p = 9.11 x 10(-15)] and RPS6KA2 [6.43 x 10(-13)], with consistency seen across Scandinavia and the UK. Dysregulated loci demonstrate strong genetic influence, notably VMP1 [p = 1.53 x 10(-15)]. Age acceleration is seen in IBD [coefficient 0.94, p &lt; 2.2 x 10(-16)]. Several immuno-active genes demonstrated highly significant correlations between methylation and gene expression in IBD, in particular OSM: IBD r = -0.32, p = 3.64 x 10(-7) vs non-IBD r = -0.14, p = 0.77]. Multi-omic integration of the methylome, genome and transcriptome also implicated specific pathways that associate with immune activation, response and regulation at disease inception. At follow-up, a signature of three DMPs [TAP1, TESPA1, RPTOR] were associated with treatment escalation to biological agents or surgery (hazard ratio of 5.19 [CI: 2.14-12.56], logrank p = 9.70 x 10(-4)). Conclusion These data demonstrate consistent epigenetic alterations at diagnosis in European patients with IBD, providing insights into the pathogenetic importance and translational potential of epigenetic mapping in complex disease.

Background: MicroRNAs [miRNAs] are cell-specific small non-coding RNAs that can regulate gene expression and have been implicated in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] pathogenesis. Here we define the cell-specific miRNA profiles and investigate its biomarker potential in IBD. Methods: In a two-stage prospective multi-centre case control study, next generation sequencing was performed on a discovery cohort of immunomagnetically separated leukocytes from 32 patients (nine Crohns disease [CD], 14 ulcerative colitis [UC], eight healthy controls) and differentially expressed signals were validated in whole blood in 294 patients [97 UC, 98 CD, 98 non-IBD, 1 IBDU] using quantitative PCR. Correlations were analysed with phenotype, including need for early treatment escalation as a marker of progressive disease using Cox proportional hazards. Results: In stage 1, each leukocyte subset [CD4(+) and CD8(+)T-cells and CD14(+) monocytes] was analysed in IBD and controls. Three specific miRNAs differentiated IBD from controls in CD4(+) T-cells, including miR-1307-3p [p = 0.01], miR-3615 [p = 0.02] and miR-4792 [p = 0.01]. In the extension cohort, in stage 2, miR-1307-3p was able to predict disease progression in IBD (hazard ratio [HR] 1.98, interquartile range [IQR]: 1.20-3.27; logrank p = 1.80 x 10(-3)), in particular CD [HR 2.81; IQR: 1.11-3.53, p = 6.50 x 10(-4)]. Using blood-based multimarker miRNA models, the estimated chance of escalation in CD was 83% if two or more criteria were met and 90% for UC if three or more criteria are met. Interpretation: We have identified and validated unique CD4(+) T-cell miRNAs that are differentially regulated in IBD. These miRNAs may be able to predict treatment escalation and have the potential for clinical translation; further prospective evaluation is now indicated.

Background

Barrier dysfunction is recognized as a pathogenic factor in ulcerative colitis (UC) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but it is unclear to what extent the factors related to barrier dysfunction are disease-specific. The aim of this study was to compare these aspects in UC patients in remission, IBS patients, and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

Colonic biopsies were collected from 13 patients with UC in remission, 15 patients with IBS-mixed, and 15 HCs. Ulcerative colitis patients had recently been treated for relapse, and biopsies were taken from earlier inflamed areas. Biopsies were mounted in Ussing chambers for measurements of intestinal paracellular permeability to 51chromium (Cr)-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). In addition, biopsies were analyzed for mast cells and eosinophils by histological procedures, and plasma tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was assessed by ELISA.

Results

Ussing chamber experiments revealed an increased 51Cr-EDTA permeability in UC and IBS (P < 0.05). The 51Cr-EDTA permeability was higher in UC compared with IBS (P < 0.005). There were increased numbers of mucosal mast cells and eosinophils in UC and IBS and more eosinophils in UC compared with IBS (P < 0.05). Also, increased extracellular granule content was found in UC compared with HCs (P < 0.05). The 51Cr-EDTA permeability correlated significantly with eosinophils in all groups. Plasma TNF-α concentration was higher in UC compared with IBS and HCs (P < 0.0005).

Conclusions

Results indicate a more permeable intestinal epithelium in inactive UC and IBS compared with HCs. Ulcerative colitis patients, even during remission, demonstrate a leakier barrier compared with IBS. Both eosinophil numbers and activation state might be involved in the increased barrier function seen in UC patients in remission.

Uptake of antigens and bacteria over the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) is increased after chronic psychological stress. We investigated whether stress affects the immune response to particle-conjugated antigens taken up via the FAE. Rats were submitted to two 10-day periods of water avoidance stress and orally immunized during these periods. Stressed immunized rats displayed altered cell populations and a Th1-skewed immune response within the lymphoid follicles, together with enhanced delayed-type hypersensitivity. We conclude that chronic stress affects the cell-mediated immune response after oral immunization, which may have implications for the understanding of allergic and autoimmune diseases and development of oral vaccines. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Background Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) has been implicated as a regulator of intestinal barrier function and inflammation. Our aim was to elucidate the role of VIP in follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) and villus epithelium (VE) permeability following stress in rats and on human intestinal barrier function. Methods Rats were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with VIP receptor-antagonists (anti-VPACs), a mast cell stabilizer, doxantrazole (DOX), or NaCl, and submitted to acute water avoidance stress. Ileal segments were mounted in Ussing chambers to assess 51chromium-edta (51Cr-edta) and Escherichia (E.) coli (strain K-12) permeability. Rat ileal and human ileal and colonic segments were exposed to VIP +/- anti-VPACs or DOX. An in vitro co-culture model of human FAE was used to study epithelial-VIP effects. VIP/VPACs distribution was assessed by microscopy. Key Results Stress increased 51Cr-edta and E.coli permeability in VE and FAE. The increases were abolished by i.p. injection of DOX or anti-VPACs. Ileal VIP-exposure ex vivo increased bacterial passage and this was reduced by DOX. In human FAE ex vivo, VIP treatment doubled bacterial uptake, which was normalized by DOX or anti-VPACs. No barrier effects were observed in human colonic tissue. VPACs were found in rat and human ileal follicles, with partial mast cell co-localization. The co-culture model confirmed VIPmast cellepithelial interactions in the regulation of barrier function. Conclusions andamp; Inferences Stress affects the FAE barrier by mechanisms involving VIP and VPACs on mucosal mast cells. We suggest a regulatory role for VIP in the control of ileal permeability that may be relevant to bacterialepithelial interactions in stress-related intestinal disorders.

In Crohn's disease (CD), inflammation is driven by luminal commensal micro-organisms, however, mechanisms of early phases of inflammation need further clarification. The earliest observable lesions of recurrent CD are microscopic erosions at the specialized follicle-associated epithelium (FAE), which lines the Peyer's patches. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the mucosal barrier to non-pathogenic bacteria in FAE of CD. The FAE of macroscopically normal ileum from patients with longstanding CD, ulcerative colitis, and controls was studied in Ussing chambers regarding electrophysiology and permeability to 51Cr-EDTA, horseradish peroxidase, and non-pathogenic E. coli strains. Transepithelial passage routes and uptake into dendritic cells were studied by confocal and electron microscopy. FAE of CD showed increased numbers of adherent bacteria, after E. coli exposure in Ussing chambers, as well as spontaneously in non-exposed archival surgical tissues. Further, we found increased uptake of fluorescent E. coli K-12 and HB101 across FAE of CD, but not in ulcerative colitis. Microscopy demonstrated intercellular and transcellular uptake of E. coli in CD, but only transcellular in controls. FAE exposed to E. coli demonstrated changes in conductance and 51Cr-EDTA permeability, suggesting that bacteria affected the paracellular pathway in CD mucosa. Following bacterial uptake, CD mucosa also demonstrated an increased percentage of E. coli co-localizing with dendritic cells, and augmented tissue release of TNF-α. Our data present novel insights into the pathophysiology of CD by demonstrating a previously unrecognized defect of FAE barrier to bacteria in ileal CD, leading to increased load of commensal bacteria to the inductive sites of mucosal immunity. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The intestinal mucosa is constantly exposed to harmful lumina! content, and uptake is closely controlled and regulated by neuro-immune factors. If control is broken, it might lead to ongoing enhanced mucosal permeability, potentially resulting in functional gastrointestinal disorders. The importance of mast cells in the regulation of the mucosal barrier has become obvious, and increased numbers and more activated mast cells have been observed in irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia and gastroesophageal reflux disease. To target the disturbed mucosal permeability, directly or via mast cells, is therefore currently of major interest. For example, administration of mast cell stabilizers and probiotics have shown promising effects in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders.

The follicle-associated epithelium (FAE), covering Peyer's patches, provides a route of entry for antigens and microorganisms. Animal studies showed enhanced antigen and bacterial uptake in FAE, but no study on barrier function of human FAE has been reported. Our aim was to characterize the normal barrier properties of human FAE. Specimens of normal ileum were taken from 30 patients with noninflammatory colonic disease. Villus epithelium (VE) and FAE were identified and mounted in Ussing chambers. Permeability to ⁵¹Cr-EDTA, transmucosal flux of the protein antigen, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), and transport of fluorescent Escherichia coli (chemically killed K-12 and live HB101) were measured. Uptake mechanisms were studied by confocal- and transmission electron microscopy, and by using pharmacological inhibitors in an in vitro coculture model of FAE and in human ileal FAE. HRP flux was substantially higher in FAE than in VE, and was reduced by an amiloride analog. Electron microscopy showed HRP-containing endosomes. Transport of E. coli K-12 and HB101 was also augmented in FAE and was confirmed by confocal microscopy. In vitro coculture experiments and electron microscopy revealed actin-dependent, mainly transcellular, uptake of E. coli K-12 into FAE. ⁵¹Cr-EDTA permeability was equal in FAE and VE. Augmented HRP flux and bacterial uptake but similar paracellular permeability, suggest functional variations of transcellular transport in the FAE. We show for the first time that FAE of human ileum is functionally distinct from regular VE, rendering the FAE more prone to bacterial–epithelial cell interactions and delivery of antigens to the mucosal immune system.

The ability to control uptake across the mucosa and protect from harmful substances in the gut lumen is defined as intestinal barrier function. The etiology of Crohns disease is unknown, but genetic, environmental, and immunological factors all contribute. The frontline between these factors lies in the intestinal barrier. The most important inflammation-driving environmental factor in Crohns disease is the microbiota, where Esherichia coli strains have been assigned a key role. The first observable signs of Crohns disease are small aphtoid ulcers over Peyers patches and lymphoid follicles. The overlaying follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) is specialized for luminal sampling and is an entry site for antigens and bacteria. We have demonstrated increased E. coli uptake across the FAE in Crohns disease, which may initiate inflammation. This short review will discuss barrier dysfunction and bacteria in the context of ileal Crohns disease, and how the FAE might be the site of initial inflammation.

Background The ability to control uptake across the mucosa and protect from damage of harmful substances from the lumen is defined as intestinal barrier function. A disturbed barrier dysfunction has been described in many human diseases and animal models, for example, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and intestinal hypersensitivity. In most diseases and models, alterations are seen both of the paracellular pathway, via the tight junctions, and of the transcellular routes, via different types of endocytosis. Recent studies of pathogenic mechanisms have demonstrated the important role of neuroimmune interaction with the epithelial cells in the regulation of barrier function. Neural impulses from extrinsic vagal and/or sympathetic efferent fibers or intrinsic enteric nerves influence mucosal barrier function via direct effects on epithelial cells or via interaction with immune cells. For example, by nerve-mediated activation by corticotropin-releasing hormone or cholinergic pathways, mucosal mast cells release a range of mediators with effects on transcellular, and/or paracellular permeability (for example, tryptase, TNF-alpha, nerve growth factor, and interleukins). Purpose In this review, we discuss current physiological and pathophysiological aspects of the intestinal barrier and, in particular, its regulation by neuroimmune factors.

Background The follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) is specialized in uptake and sampling of luminal antigens and bacteria. We previously showed that stress increased FAE permeability in rats. An increased uptake may alter antigen exposure in Peyers patches leading to intestinal disease. The aim of this study was to elucidate mechanisms involved in the acute stress-induced increase in FAE permeability. Methods Rats were pretreated i.p. with corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor (CRH-R) antagonist, neurokinin receptor 1 (NK-1R) antagonist, atropine, the mast cell stabilizer doxantrazole (DOX), or NaCl, and submitted to 1-h acute water avoidance stress. FAE tissues were mounted in Ussing chambers for measurements of permeability to 51Cr-EDTA, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and chemically killed Escherichia coli K-12. Further, FAE segments were exposed in vitro in chambers to CRH, substance P (SP), carbachol, and DOX. Neurotransmitter- and receptor distribution was studied by immunohistochemistry. Key Results Stress-induced increases in uptake across FAE of HRP and E. coli were reduced by DOX, CRH-R antagonist and atropine, whereas the NK-1R antagonist decreased 51Cr-EDTA permeability. Exposure to CRH and carbachol increased HRP and E. coli passage, whereas SP increased bacterial and 51Cr-EDTA permeability. DOX counteracted all of these effects. Immunohistochemistry revealed CRH, acetylcholine, SP, and their receptors on mast cells within the Peyers patches, subepithelial dome, and adjacent villi. Conclusions & Inferences Corticotropin-releasing hormone and acetylcholine signaling affect mainly transcellular permeability while SP seems more selective toward the paracellular pathways. Our findings may be of importance for the understanding of the pathogenesis of stress-related intestinal disorders.

Background and Aims: Patients with Crohns disease [CD] harbour an increased number of adherent-invasive E. coli [AIEC]. The strain LF82, identified in the ileal mucosa of CD patients, has been extensively studied for pathogenic mechanisms. However, understanding of the interaction of LF82 with the intestinal mucosa of CD patients is lacking. Methods: Here, we investigated the importance of long polar fimbriae [LPF] type 1 pili and the carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell-adhesion molecule 6 [CEACAM6] for translocation of LF82 in an in vitro model of follicle-associated epithelium [FAE], and in the FAE and villus epithelium [VE] of patients with CD and controls, using Ussing chambers. Results: Significantly greater LF82 passage occurred in the FAE model compared with in the VE Caco-2cl1 mono-culture. Moreover, bacterial translocation was inhibited by either LPF disruption or pre-incubation with anti-CEACAM6 antibody. Tissue mounted in Ussing chambers showed significantly higher LF82 passage in FAE from patients with CD compared with control FAE, that was diminished in LF82 lacking LPF and by blocking host CEACAM6. Interestingly, addition of LF82 to the CD FAE tissues significantly increased paracellular permeability [of (51)Chromium-EDTA] compared with baseline, and the increase was inhibited by anti-CEACAM6. Immunofluorescence and immunoblots showed higher expression of CEACAM6 in FAE of patients with CD compared with in FAE from controls. Conclusions: These data suggest that the FAE of CD patients is a site of vulnerability for invasion by LF82 via a mechanism that requires both bacterial LPF and host CEACAM6. Further, LF82 has the ability to increase paracellular passage through the FAE of patients with CD. These data can help define novel therapeutic targets in CD for the prevention of clinical recurrence.

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are highly plastic and predominantly mucosal tissue-resident cells that contribute to both homeostasis and inflammation depending on the microenvironment. The discovery of naive-like ILCs suggests an ILC differentiation process that is akin to naive T cell differentiation. Delineating the mechanisms that underlie ILC differentiation in tissues is crucial for understanding ILC biology in health and disease. Here, we showed that tonsillar ILCs expressing CD45RA lacked proliferative activity, indicative of cellular quiescence. CD62L distinguished two subsets of CD45RA(+) ILCs. CD45RA(+)CD62L(+) ILCs (CD62L(+) ILCs) resembled circulating naive ILCs because they lacked the transcriptional, metabolic, epigenetic, and cytokine production signatures of differentiated ILCs. CD45RA(+)CD62L(-) ILCs (CD62L(-) ILCs) were epigenetically similar to CD62L(+) ILCs but showed a transcriptional, metabolic, and cytokine production signature that was more akin to differentiated ILCs. CD62L(+) and CD62L(-) ILCs contained uni- and multipotent precursors of ILC1s/NK cells and ILC3s. Differentiation of CD62L(+) and CD62L(-) ILCs led to metabolic reprogramming including up-regulation of genes associated with glycolysis, which was needed for their effector functions after differentiation. CD62L(-) ILCs with preferential differentiation capacity toward IL-22-producing ILC3s accumulated in the inflamed mucosa of patients with inflammatory bowel disease. These data suggested distinct differentiation potential of CD62L(+) and CD62L(-) ILCs between tissue microenvironments and identified that manipulation of these cells is a possible approach to restore tissue-immune homeostasis.

A defect in mitochondrial activity contributes to many diseases. We have shown that monolayers of the human colonic T84 epithelial cell line exposed to dinitrophenol (DNP, uncouples oxidative phosphorylation) and nonpathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) (strain HB101) display decreased barrier function. Here the impact of DNP on macrophage activity and the effect of TNF-a, DNP, and E. coli on epithelial permeability were assessed. DNP treatment of the human THP-1 macrophage cell line resulted in reduced ATP synthesis, and, although hyporesponsive to LPS, the metabolically stressed macrophages produced IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-a. Given the role of TNF-a in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the association between increased permeability and IBD, recombinant TNF-a (10 ng/ml) was added to the DNP (0.1 mM) + E. coli (106 colony-forming units), and this resulted in a significantly greater loss of T84 epithelial barrier function than that elicited by DNP + E. coli. This increased epithelial permeability was not due to epithelial death, and the enhanced E. coli translocation was reduced by pharmacological inhibitors of NF-?ß signaling (pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, NF-?ß essential modifier-binding peptide, BAY 11-7082, and the proteosome inhibitor, MG132). In contrast, the drop in transepithelial electrical resistance was unaffected by the inhibitors of NF-?ß. Thus, as an integrative model system, our findings support the induction of a positive feedback loop that can severely impair epithelial barrier function and, as such, could contribute to existing inflammation or trigger relapses in IBD. Thus metabolically stressed epithelia display increased permeability in the presence of viable nonpathogenic E. coli that is exaggerated by TNF-a released by activated immune cells, such as macrophages, that retain this ability even if they themselves are experiencing a degree of metabolic stress. Copyright © 2008 the American Physiological Society.

Background: The gut microflora in some patients with Crohns disease can be reduced in numbers of butyrate-producing bacteria and this could result in metabolic stress in the colonocytes. Thus, we hypothesized that the short-chain fatty acid, butyrate, is important in the maintenance and regulation of the barrier function of the colonic epithelium. Methods: Confluent monolayers of the human colon-derived T84 or HT-29 epithelial cell lines were exposed to dinitrophenol (DNP (0.1 mM), uncouples oxidative phosphorylation) + Escherichia coil (strain HB101, 10(6) cfu) +/- butyrate (3-50 mM). Transepithelial resistance (TER), and bacterial internalization and translocation were assessed over a 24-hour period. Epithelial ultrastructure was assessed by transmission electron microscopy. Results: Epithelia under metabolic stress display decreased TER and increased numbers of pseudopodia that is consistent with increased internalization and translocation of the E. coli. Butyrate (but not acetate) significantly reduced the bacterial translocation across DNP-treated epithelia but did not ameliorate the drop in TER in the DNP+E. coli exposed monolayers. Inhibition of bacterial transcytosis across metabolically stressed epithelia was associated with reduced I-kappa B phosphorylation and hence NF-kappa B activation. Conclusions: Reduced butyrate-producing bacteria could result in increased epithelial permeability particularly in the context of concomitant exposure to another stimulus that reduces mitochondria function. We speculate that prebiotics, the substrate for butyrate synthesis, is a valuable prophylaxis in the regulation of epithelial permeability and could be of benefit in preventing relapses in IBD.

Background Faecal biomarkers can be used to assess inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Aim To explore the performance of some promising biomarkers in diagnosing and predicting disease course in IBD. Methods We included 65 patients with treatment-na & iuml;ve, new-onset Crohn's disease (CD), 90 with ulcerative colitis (UC), 67 symptomatic controls (SC) and 41 healthy controls (HC) in this prospective observational study. We analysed faecal samples for calprotectin (FC), myeloperoxidase (MPO), human neutrophil lipocalin (HNL), eosinophil cationic protein ECP and eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) and compared markers among groups. We assessed the diagnostic capability of biomarkers with receiver operating characteristic curves. Clinical disease course was determined for each patient with IBD and analysed the association with biomarkers by logistic regression. Results All markers were elevated at inclusion in patients with IBD compared with HC (p &lt; 0.001) and SC (p &lt; 0.001). FC (AUC 0.85, 95% CI: 0.79-0.89) and MPO (AUC 0.85, 95% CI: 0.80-0.89) showed the highest diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing IBD from SC. The diagnostic ability of biomarkers differed between IBD subtypes with the highest performance for FC and MPO in CD. The diagnostic accuracy was further improved by combining FC and MPO (p = 0.02). Levels of FC, MPO and HNL at inclusion were predictive of an aggressive disease course with MPO showing the strongest association (p = 0.006). Conclusions This study provides new insight into the diagnostic and prognostic capability of neutrophil and eosinophil biomarkers in IBD and suggests that MPO, alone or in combination with FC, may add to the diagnostic power of faecal biomarkers.

Introduction: Fecal calprotectin (FC) is a noninvasive tool for examining response to biologics in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but its performance in relation to other novel fecal markers of various cellular origins is unknown.

Methods: We performed a prospective multicenter cohort study and included patients with active IBD who provided a fecal sample at initiation of biological therapy. Levels of FC, myeloperoxidase (MPO), human neutrophil lipocalin (HNL), and eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) were analyzed and related to clinical remission status at 3 months. Changes in levels of markers at 3 months were calculated, and the impact of concomitant use of corticosteroids at baseline was estimated.

Results: In patients achieving clinical remission (n = 27), a decrease in levels of FC ( P = 0.005), MPO ( P < 0.001), HNL ( P < 0.001), and EDN ( P < 0.001) was observed, whereas no significant decrease was seen in patients not achieving remission (n = 39). There was a significant difference in the change in the level of MPO ( P = 0.01) and HNL ( P = 0.02) between patients achieving clinical remission and those who did not, but changes in FC and EDN could not differentiate between these groups. Patients with concomitant systemic corticosteroids at inclusion had lower levels of HNL ( P = 0.01) and EDN ( P < 0.001) at baseline, compared with patients without corticosteroids.

Discussion: Fecal MPO, HNL, and EDN are all promising biomarkers for assessing the treatment outcome of biologics in patients with IBD. Fecal levels of EDN and HNL are significantly affected by corticosteroids indicating a greater sensitivity to the effects of corticosteroids compared with levels of FC and MPO.

Stress has a major impact on gut physiology and may affect the clinical course of gastro-intestinal diseases. In this review, we focus on the interaction between commensal gut microbiota and intestinal mucosa during stress and discuss the possibilities to counteract the deleterious effects of stress with probiotics. Normally, commensal microbes and their hosts benefit from a symbiotic relationship. Stress does, however, reduce the number of Lactobacilli, while on the contrary, an increased growth, epithelial adherence and mucosal uptake of gram-negative pathogens, e.g. E. coli and Pseudomonas, are seen. Moreover, intestinal bacteria have the ability to sense a stressed host and up-regulate their virulence factors when opportunity knocks. Probiotics are "live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host", and mainly represented by Lactic Acid Bacteria. Probiotics can counteract stress-induced changes in intestinal barrier function, visceral sensitivity and gut motility. These effects are strain specific and mediated by direct bacterial-host cell interaction and/or via soluble factors. Mechanisms of action include competition with pathogens for essential nutrients, induction of epithelial heat-shock proteins, restoring of tight junction protein structure, up-regulation of mucin genes, secretion of defensins, and regulation of the NFκB signalling pathway. In addition, the reduction of intestinal pain perception was shown to be mediated via cannabinoid receptors. Based on the studies reviewed here there is clearly a rationale for probiotic treatment in patients with stress-related intestinal disorders. We are however far from being able to choose the precise combination of strains or bacterial components for each clinical setting. © 2008 Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.

BACKGROUND: Chronic stress, which may affect in the clinical course of inflammatory and functional bowel diseases, disrupts intestinal barrier function by routes involving mast cells. Probiotics have been shown to ameliorate the deleterious effects of stress on intestinal function, but mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ signaling is activated as an endogenous defense mechanism during chronic stress and evidence suggests that probiotics reduce the degradation of PPAR-γ. As a source of the endogenous agonist for PPAR-γ, 15d-PGJ2, and as an important mediator of the stress response, mast cells may have both a beneficial and a deleterious role in the effects on intestinal function by probiotics.

AIM: Our aim was to study if mast cells contribute to the positive effects of probiotic therapy on intestinal function in a rat model of chronic stress.

METHODS: 32 Mast cell deficient (Ws/Ws) and 32 wild-type (+/+) rats were subjected to water avoidance stress (WAS) or sham stress (SS) 1hr/day for 10 days. Seven days prior to the onset of stress, probiotics (PB, multispecies combination of 10 different lactic acid bacteria) were added to the standard diet (St) in half of the animals. To determine dependence of PPAR-γ, 8 probiotic-fed wild-type rats subjected to WAS were injected daily with the specific PPAR-γ antagonist T0070907. The colonic mucosa was exposed to E. coli HB101 incorporated with green fluorescent protein and permeability was assessed in Ussing chambers. Mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) were cultured to determine bacterial translocation.

RESULTS: Chronic stress induced a marked increase in ileal permeability to E.coli HB101 in +/+ rats (0.17±0.1 x106CFU/hr in SS/St/++ vs. 2.13±0.4 in WAS/St/++; P<0.001). This breach in barrier integrity was less pronounced in Ws/Ws rats (2.13±0.4 in WAS/St/++ vs. 1.19±0.3 in WAS/St/WsWs; P<0.01). Probiotics prevented stress-induced effects in E.coli HB101 passage only in wild-type rats (82% decrease in +/+ vs. 0% in Ws/Ws rats). Furthermore, only in the presence of mast cells did probiotics reduce the enhanced bacterial translocation to MLNs during chronic stress. In wild-type rats treated with a PPAR-γ antagonist, the barrier protective effects of probiotics were diminished.

CONCLUSIONS: Mast cells acting via a PPAR-γ dependent pathway contribute to the beneficial effects of probiotics on chronic stress-induced mucosal dysfunction in rats.