Both Th1-type cytokines (IFN-gamma, IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and KC/GRO) and Th2-type cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) were significantly increased in NEC but also in nondamaged formula-fed rat ileum.
Positive findings indicate the implication of genetic polymorphisms of proinflammatory cytokines in premature birth; angiotensin converting enzyme in perinatal adaptation and angiotensin type 1 receptor in the closure of ductus arteriosus; surfactant proteins A and B in respiratory distress syndrome; interleukin (IL)-6 in sepsis, and IL-4-receptor alpha chain and IL-18 in NEC.
The aim of this study was to evaluate whether functional polymorphisms of interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-4 receptor alpha-chain (IL-4ra), IL-6, and IL-10 genes might be associated with the risk of NEC in VLBW infants.