NALP expression in Paneth cells provides a novel track in IBD signaling

Purpose Paneth cells are part of the innate mucosal immunity of the gut with possible regulatory function. This study intends to identify the gene expression pattern of the orthotopic and metaplastic Paneth cells, searching for differences between metaplastic occurrence between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Methods Paneth cells were collected in RNAse-free conditions via micro dissection. RNA isolation and super amplification was followed by microarray analysis of whole genome expression activity of the orthotopic and metaplastic Paneth cells. Immunohistology of β-catenin and Frizzled-5 receptor was performed. Results Histological analysis showed no morphological or secretory change (Frizzled-5 receptor and β-catenin) in orthotopic and metaplastic Paneth cells. Microarray analysis indicated an increased, but not mutant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and firstly showed expression of NALP 1, 7, 8 and 11 in metaplastic Paneth cells. Conclusions Paneth cells might play a NALP-mediated role in the pathogenesis of IBD.